As part of an exciting new initiative, Nigel Marsh has been appointed as the first Community Cricket Co-ordinator in the South Island. His appointment comes about as part of New Zealand Cricket's focus on developing the game at grass roots level. Nigel will be working for the Sydenham and Lancaster Park/Woolston Cricket Clubs on a full-time basis and will start on February 7th.

The Community Cricket Programme is a nationwide initiative. New Zealand Cricket, who have provided the bulk of the funding for the project, has recognised that essential differences exist within the cricket regions and has therefore given Canterbury Cricket the responsibility of implementing and managing tasks associated with it within our region. While the pilot programme will be initially implemented with only the two clubs at this stage, a three year plan aims to involve all CCA Districts and Metropolitan Clubs.

The programme is initially aimed at revitalising cricket at club and secondary school levels. The main focus is to strengthen clubs at all levels including increasing and retaining player numbers and assisting club administration as well as working with the feeder secondary schools to these clubs through the provision of coaching and other resources.

Nigel brings a wealth of cricketing experience to the position. He is a Level Two coach and has represented the South African Country Districts. Since his move from South Africa two years ago he has been club coach and Chairman at the Riccarton Cricket Club, he has coached and selected Canterbury underage teams and been involved extensively in the Milo Development Programme. Nigel also brings administration skills to the position seen as necessary and complimenting the 'hands on' coaching which will be undertaken.

Nigel's first main task will be to identify and meet with the secondary schools in the catchment area of the Lancaster Park/Woolston and Sydenham clubs and to outline the programme and formulate a plan on the best way to go forward.

Nigel said that "The appointment of a Community Cricket Co-ordinator is an extremely progressive move by New Zealand Cricket and I'm please to be associated with the Development Programme. I am passionate about cricket and it is this passion that will enable me to undertake the position in a positive and healthy way. I see my impartiality as being an advantage in allowing me to serve both clubs equally and this will ensure all my decisions will be made for the good of cricket. I must admit however, that there are still a few divided loyalties when it comes to supporting a National team."

© Canterbury Cricket Association