National Cricket Coaching Widened

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32362, 30 July 1970, Page 19

National Cricket Coaching Widened

An extension of the Rothmans national cricket coaching scheme, in which all associations could be involved employing paid coaches, has been announced by Mr A. J. Postles, chairman of the national coaching committee, on behalf of the New Zealand Cricket Council.

This is seen as a natural development of the national scheme, which is now in its fourth year. So far 77 youth courses and three advanced courses have been held, and a total of 558 youth coaches, 35 club grade coaches, and 25 district grade coaches have qualified from the 1002 ah tending these courses. Youth coaches are qualified to coach primary schoolboys, club grade coaches cover club and secondary school levels, and district grade coaches are competent to coach at any level and direct other coaches.

Mr Postles said the proposals the coaching committee is offering to all associations are designed to stimulate the enthusiasm of the administrators so that coaching on a national basis may be extended and carried out more efficiently.

“The point has now been reached,” Mr Postles said, "when the organisation of these extensive coaching resources on a national basis will mark a great step forward, not only for the scheme but also for cricket in New Zealand.” If all associations agree to participate, payment to coaches over the ensuing year from the Rothmans scheme could amount to $4OOO. In making proposals to associations based on the payment of district and club grade coaches for periods of 40 hours coaching during the season, the coaching committee feels that sufficient impetus and encouragement should be gained as a basis to further development. The national coach (Mr M. J. Horton) will be available with advice and assistance at practical coaching levels and will continue his work in training and qualifying further coaches and ensuring coaching capabilities and efficiency.