Cricket West Indies (CWI) has reignited its commitment to nurturing a robust pool of high-quality cricket coaches across the Caribbean by launching the second round of its Foundation Level and Refreshers Coaching Courses. This initiative, which began in Antigua and Barbuda on October 2 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, is strategically timed to align with the anticipated restart of primary schools and community-based grassroots cricket programs. The sessions are scheduled to continue in Montserrat, the British and US Virgin Islands, Sint Maarten, Anguilla, and conclude in St Vincent on October 30.
Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, ‘The continuation of these courses underscores CWI’s dedication to enhancing coaching talent and fortifying cricketing infrastructure throughout the region. By investing in coaching education at this foundational stage, we are laying the groundwork for the sustainable growth and future success of cricket in the Caribbean.’
Bascombe further highlighted the broader impact of this effort, noting that well-trained coaches are essential for flagship programs like the Republic Bank Limited (RBL) Five for Fun Cricket and the Girls Under-16/19 Territorial Cricket Hub initiatives. These programs are pivotal in inspiring the next generation of cricketers and fostering mass participation in the sport.
The coaching courses are led by Brendon Ramlal and Keshava Ramphal, both Level 3 certified coaches with extensive experience in age-group cricket development and education systems in Trinidad and Tobago. Their expertise spans critical areas such as child protection, analytics, tactical awareness, physical fitness, and effective communication.
In a move to prioritize the safety and well-being of young players, all participants are required to complete the UNICEF Child Protection Course and attend a virtual Cricket Safeguarding and Child Protection Workshop before commencing the program. These measures ensure that coaches are equipped to create a secure and supportive environment for player development.
Previously, CWI successfully conducted these courses in Dominica, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Grenada (including Carriacou), Jamaica, and Barbados, engaging over 150 participants. These efforts are designed to empower current and aspiring coaches with the skills necessary to cultivate young talent and drive the growth of cricket at the grassroots level.