On Thursday 15th February, the Wicketz Bristol programme held its first ever girls-only holiday festival.
Girls from across our Wicketz hubs were invited to an afternoon at the University of Bristol. Across the afternoon, the girls had an exercise and nutrition workshop with Jane Rogers, a merged match with the University of Bristol Women’s Cricket Club, and a tour of the university campus.
Kicking Things Off
Kicking things off, quite literally, was Jane Rogers who took the girls through some icebreaker games before teaching them some combat and boxing skills.
After the session, Jane said:
“It was great to be there! The teamwork and willingness to join in was brilliant, it was a pleasure to run the session.”
Head-to-Head
We were then able to mix up our Wicketz participants with members of the University Women’s Cricket Club to create a 10-a-side pairs match. It was a closely contested fixture, with all still to play for going into the final delivery of the game.
A parent fed back to us:
“My girls came out buzzing. They loved the boxing (and the popcorn!!) and being able to play a proper cricket match with the “big girls”. It’s very inspiring for them to play with older women who are clearly into their sport”
Exploring the Campus
Following the game, the girls then braved the weather to tour the university campus. On their tour they were able to see some of the historic buildings and gardens at the university, talk to current students, and see inside a lecture theatre.
Emily O’Keeffe, Charities Secretary at University of Bristol Women’s Cricket Club, said:
“It was a really fun day partnering with Wicketz and everyone had a really good time. A particular highlight was the match where I can see a lot of future cricket stars in the making!”
Wilf Brooke, Wicketz Development Officer, added:
“Being able to team up today with the University of Bristol Women’s Cricket Club has been brilliant. It has helped to break down some of the barriers the girls may experience with regards to engaging with sport or higher education. We are very grateful for the time and engagement the students have given to our girls. We are looking forward to running more events with them in the future.”
About the Wicketz Programme
Wicketz is a free community cricket programme funded by the Lord’s Taverners. Aimed at young people from underserved communities, it provides them with a safe space to play cricket and learn life skills. Through building sustainable hubs within local communities, the programme provides free weekly sessions, holiday festivals, and connects with other Wicketz projects across the country at the residentials. All equipment is provided at sessions. Beginners are encouraged!
To find out more about the programme, please email Wicketz Development Officer Wilf Brooke at wilf.brooke@gloucestershirecricketfoundation.org or sign up by completing the registration form here.