For long periods this summer, there seemed to be a real danger that hundreds of All Stars would not have the opportunity to take to the county’s cricket fields and recreation grounds.
Eventually, however, the cricket programme for five to eight-year-olds was able to return – and one All Stars Activator could not have been happier.
Lisa Pitt helps to run All Stars session at Gotham CC – and she knew how crucial the return of cricket, and a healthy helping of fun, could be for children enduring a most unusual year.
“As a mum I felt it was really important to give the kids any kind of 'normality' that we could,” she said.
“My son has now done three All Stars cycles, and I've seen first-hand how important this introduction to cricket and teamwork has been for him.
“I was determined to get some sessions going, if we were able to.”
In common with the rest of the game, All Stars was subject to some modifications, but Lisa feels the hurdles have been worth overcoming.
“We have had to encourage sanitising between activities, we try and keep siblings together and we also social distance wherever possible, although with 5-8 year olds this can be a challenge!” she said.
“We have been so lucky with our kids this year – they have complied with all our requests. They are just really happy to be playing cricket with their friends, and making new ones too.”
September is Women’s Big Cricket Month, with the ECB highlighting the array of opportunities the sport can provide for women and girls.
Lisa is adamant that female All Stars Activators can have a crucial role to play in showing girls that cricket truly is a sport for them.
“I feel like it’s great for the girls that come along to have a female presence in the coaching team,” she said.
“You don't need to know all the rules of the sport, just to have enthusiasm and a willingness to encourage the kids.
“The activities available to you through the Activator resources really help to make sure the kids have a great experience.”
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