Participants and parents have hailed the positive impact of Super 1s disability cricket sessions, after almost 300 young people enjoyed a taste of the sport in the initiative’s first few months of operation.
The Nottinghamshire Cricket Board currently operate three Super 1s hubs across the county, providing young people with disabilities a safe environment in which to enjoy the physical and social benefits of sport and an active lifestyle.
Devised by the Lord’s Taverners, the scheme is intended to develop communication and leadership skills amongst participants, and to open up avenues through which they can progress to local cricket clubs.
“It’s about getting them involved, getting them active and helping them to enjoy cricket,” said Martyn Hill, a Super 1s coach.
“In the first few weeks of the programme, they were literally creeping into the hall, but as soon as you start the activities and get them working together they are straight in, cheering and egging each other on.
“It’s great to watch and be a part of.”
In the first few months of the programme’s operation, 293 young people have enjoyed a taste of Super 1s cricket.
The diversity of those involved has also been notable, with almost a third of participants being female – with this figure rising to almost two thirds at the hub based in Keyworth.
“Super 1s has progressed so well,” said Alison Gott, a parent of one of the Newark hub's attendees.
“All the children love it, they get on well, they’re a super team together and the team spirit is amazing.
“We could not be more chuffed.”
Nottinghamshire’s three Super 1s hubs are open to young people between the ages of 12 and 25, and are based in Newark, Keyworth and the city of Nottingham.
The success of the programme has led the Nottinghamshire Cricket Board to seek a suitable location for a fourth hub in the Mansfield/ Ashfield area. If you know of a venue in the north of the county which may benefit from the Super 1s programme, please contact Natasha.buckland@nottsccc.co.uk.
There are currently three opportunities to take part in Super 1s each week:
- Monday: Keyworth Hub at Keyworth Leisure Centre, 5:30-6:30pm
- Tuesday: Nottingham Hub at Monty Hind Youth Club, 6-7pm
- Thursday: Newark Hub at Newark Academy, 6-7pm
Find out more about Super 1s, and register your free place at a hub, here.