KFC Mini Cricket honours local talent

The KFC Mini Cricket Recognition Ceremony and Information Session was recently held at the Suryaville Primary School Hall.

This was to acknowledge and commend the active role of the coordinators, coaches and children, involved in the KFC Mini Cricket Programme in Newcastle.

The children were given attendance certificates, while the coaches who underwent a practical training course and successfully passed their examinations in 2018, where awarded coaching certificates.

The Newcastle Committee were handed gifts and vouchers for their ongoing dedication and commitment to the programme.

“The vision for 2019 and beyond, is for the committee to reach out to more school coaches in Newcastle and its surrounding areas such as Madadeni and oSizweni, for training and development of Mini Cricket,” says Committee Member Rishi Nanan.

The highlight of the event however, was the attendance of the KZN Inland representatives, whose presentations and talks encouraged and inspired the young cricketers and coaches.

Shane Burger, the coach, and Kurtlyn Mannikum, the player, were amazed at the work the Newcastle Committee has put in.

They even donated the cash vouchers to the Newcastle Committee to use towards the programme.

“A thank you to Suryaville Primary School, the committee and sponsors that assisted towards the event. It is much appreciated,” concludes Nanan.

Any schools interested in the Mini Cricket programme or looking for more information and coaching courses, can contact Rishi Nanan on 072 216 0772.

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The Newcastle Advertiser had the opportunity to chat with KZN Inland Representative Coach, Shane Burger (36).

Where does your passion for cricket, and sport in general, stem from?

I’ve always been involved in sport throughout my life. My dad was a rugby player and he also went into coaching. The love of sport is deeply rooted in my family.

How long have you been playing professional cricket?

I played for the Lions cricket team and represented the country from 2001 to 2015.

When did you get involved in coaching cricket?

I’ve been coaching cricket for two years now.

Why do you think introducing sport in schools is important?

Sport keeps children occupied and helps to build their character. It teaches them team work, leadership and sportsmanship. Sport also helps children grow and keep fit. A healthy body equals a healthy mind. Cricket is a game of life.

What are your future career plans?

I am fortunate to be leaving next month to coach in Scotland. What I’m looking forward to the most, is the exposure to international coaching
I will miss South Africa, but I promise to come back and bring along with me the experience I gain.

What’s your advice to aspiring young cricketers?

The work you put in, is the result you get out. Don’t be afraid to seek a new journey out of your comfort zone. Join the KZN Inland Academy; we pick up talented players from around the country and even if you don’t play for the national team, the academy can open doors to other opportunities within the sport.

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Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za

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