Specialist Coach

The ECB flagship programme has been developed to provide coaches with an opportunity to explore areas that they have an interest in and passion for.

Coaches attend core modules followed by specialist modules selected during their application phase. Each coach is assigned a mentor who provides individual support and development throughout the programme.

In 2020, the programme will have a greater online and virtual presence allowing coaches more flexibility in their learning journey. The challenge for all coaches is to learn as they develop, just as players do.

Therefore, we have developed a programme that will help you challenge your current coaching practice and further your knowledge and understanding in a variety of areas.

Programme Outcomes

This ECB programme has been designed to build on your experiences to give you the knowledge, skills and confidence to challenge existing thinking and beliefs about cricket coaching and develop specialist areas of expertise when coaching individuals, units and teams.

Content

  • World class basics of coaching: skill development, coach behaviour and integrated coaching
  • Sports movement for cricket performance: biomechanics, strength and conditioning, injury management and performance nutrition
  • Performance psychology and neuroscience: performance under pressure, team dynamics and high performing cultures
  • Leading people
  • Developing players
  • Batting
  • Pace bowling
  • Spin bowling
  • Fielding
  • Wicketkeeping

Who is it for?

For coaches working with players and teams across all playing environments that hold an ECB level 3 qualification or equivalent with at least one year of coaching experience since certification.

Commitment

  • Attendance at a virtual interview after shortlisting
  • 4 core modules: World class basics, Sports movement for cricket performance, Performance psychology and neuroscience – e-learning (online and virtual)
  • 2 cricket skill modules selected from: Batting, Pace bowling, Spin bowling, Fielding, Wicketkeeping – face-to-face
  • 1 coaching module selected from: Head coach, Skill coach – e-learning (online and virtual)
  • Assignments: World class basics, Psychology, Biomechanics, Physical preparation for performance
  • Portfolio developed through coaching in own environment
  • Final assessment by presentation and professional discussion

For more information, please contact Gareth Dawson Workforce Development Officer.

Gareth Dawson / Workforce Development Officer

Gareth joined the GCB in 2016 and progressed into his current role as Workforce Development Officer in 2021. His main roles are being the main point of contact for the ECB on all Coach Development matters and grow the number of active coaches across the County of Gloucestershire.

Additionally, he will support the Gloucestershire Association of Cricket Officials (GACO) in developing an Officials Strategy that aims to grow the number of officials across the game. Increase the number of courses that are available to potential officials and work with GACO to transition volunteers from ‘course takers’ to ‘standing officials’.

Support the Gloucestershire Grounds Association in developing a programme of activity that supports ground staff across each year. Coordinate and manage both national and local Reward and Recognition events for all groups of volunteers. On top of practical delivery in schools, he will work with teachers to enhance their cricket delivery and work with universities/colleges to provide opportunities for students to gain qualifications and coaching experience.

Gareth is a Liverpool FC fan, a big follower of cricket around the world and plays his cricket at Hatherley & Reddings.

Gareth Dawson / Workforce Development Officer
Email
07554 455738