A cricket club first established in Hull almost 130 years ago is “having a real push” to get more children involved in playing the sport.
Hull Zingari Cricket Club, based in Chanterlands Avenue, was formed in 1896 and introduced junior cricket in 1977. Its under-17 league extended to under-15, under-13 and below in the 1990s and the club today offers development programmes from six years old.
Now, the club is on a drive to interest more youngsters in the sport through softball cricket sessions, for ages up to 13. “This year we are having a real push on trying to get more children involved in playing sports, including actively trying to encourage more girls to become involved in cricket,” a spokesperson said.
“We’re running free softball every Friday from 6pm to 7pm until the end of the season. Softball cricket sessions are used as a relaxed introduction to cricket without the ball being hard and hurting!
“It provides a friendly atmosphere where children can begin to develop co-ordination, strength, fitness and their understanding of structured games. Regular exercise and social interaction is proven to contribute towards positive mental health and wellbeing.
“Our aim is for children to start developing cricket skills in a safe environment and encourage them to participate in team sports and make friends.” There is no limit to the number of potential new participants as there are already up to three coaches available to run the sessions and this would be increased as needed.
The spokesperson said: “The coaches are volunteering because we believe that cricket should be an accessible game for all. We have Snehal Kauthankar volunteering for some sessions; he’s a professional overseas player who has joined us for the season.
“The focus is on increasing participation in cricket for children overall. However, we are also actively encouraging girls to join sessions and enjoy cricket and are starting a girls’ training programme, Girls Dynamos.”
To find out more, visit hullcricket.co.uk or email info@hullcricket.co.uk. You can also find Hull Zingari Cricket Club on social media.