Aims & approach

A lot of the training at U9s is games-based, whilst in the indoor nets we take the opportunity to work on some of the core skills around bowling / batting when we move outside we will look to introduce more game-based practice.

A lot of the exercises we do have been designed by the ECB and actually focus on a specific skill set needed. So whilst it may look like the players are running about laughing (and we sincerely hope they do) please trust that there is a reason behind it – if you have any questions about something we are doing, please feel free to approach us after the session.

“The best thing about the season has been watching the children progress and have fun.”

—U9s Parent

Teams & Selection

We will try to get everyone a game at a level that is appropriate for the player. For example, a young player just starting out on the journey does not want to be facing a player on the Yorkshire Pathway – nobody will get anything out of that.

When it comes to league selection, we will look to include players who can bowl with a straight arm, and have confidence when batting against any bowler. We will also look to who has attended training on a regular basis.

Development games are a lot more relaxed and different abilities can be catered for – they are a great introduction for our less experienced players!

During all the time a player is at Meanwood, we will look to encourage the following aspects of cricket:

• Teamwork – cheering on each other, shrugging off mistakes and not criticising them.

• Respect – to each other, to coaches and other volunteers, to the other team and to the umpires

• Leadership – we like our players to make on field decisions, we are not coaches that will over coach, though if there is something obvious a suggestion will be made

• Support – respect starts with our supporters, please encourage and applaud good play by both teams! Let the players on the field make the decision, they will learn more – especially when it comes to running between the wickets. There is nothing more confusing for a player than someone on the sideline shouting RUN! Inevitably, they get the message too late and get themselves run out.