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SCCC Stars join the WPA Foundation to deliver cricket kit to local schools
Two state primary schools were treated to a visit from four Somerset players this week to help deliver new kit bags of equipment donated by the WPA Foundation.
Both schools completed the Somerset Cricket Foundation’s STUMPY programme last term, and the children had the opportunity to meet their sporting heroes in their very own playgrounds whilst putting their new cricket kit to the test.
Burrington Primary School enjoyed a coaching session delivered by SCF coaches, with the Somerset Men’s duo of Kasey Aldridge and Jake Ball, whilst Ruishton Primary met with Alfie Ogborne and Somerset Women’s Bex Odgers. Joining the duo at Ruishton Primary was Stumpy the Somerset CCC mascot. Those involved had an opportunity to get autographs, photographs and ask the players their cricketing questions.
“The experience was truly inspirational for our children, and it was so generous of Kasey and Jake to give up their time. The kit is amazing, and we are so grateful to the WPA Foundation.” Burrington Primary School
Joining the players on the visit to the schools, was Director of Good Causes at the WPA Foundation Charlie MacEwan, who funds the six-week cricket programme in state schools across Somerset, who said: “The WPA Foundation is proud to promote healthy activity among young people, and the Somerset Cricket Foundation’s Stumpy Programme perfectly brings this commitment to life. By broadening cricketing opportunities for all and expanding the sport in schools, it inspires a passion for cricket that could one day produce future Somerset players. It’s wonderful to see school children enjoying sports, and watching them train with Stumpy and Somerset professionals truly highlights the value of our support for the Somerset Cricket Foundation.”
Both schools have now accessed the fully funded cricket delivery, and have received a bag of cricket kit to allow them to continue playing cricket into the summer and for years to come.
“The Stumpy programme was thoroughly engaging and enjoyable for all our learners. It was fantastic to witness their confidence in cricketing skills grow week by week, spurred on by hearing the inspiring past experiences of Somerset players. Having an inspirational coach visit from outside the school was a real benefit, as they not only developed the children’s sporting abilities but also linked these lessons to the PSHE curriculum. Through cricket, the programme has fostered teamwork, resilience, and self-confidence in our pupils, leaving a lasting impact.” Ruishton Primary School
“Visiting Ruishton Primary School on Friday was another great experience for myself. Seeing young children having the opportunity to play cricket all year round is extremely exciting for our sport. With the addition of skilled and enthusiastic SCF coaches, supported by great quality kit donated by WPA, it meant the children had the opportunity to show off their skills to myself and Bex. The atmosphere was most impressive to me. Although it was a typical cold January afternoon, the students were unfazed and desperate to have some fun and get practicing. I was shocked at how few are affiliated with a local cricket club. It would be awesome if at my next visit to Ruishton that more of the children had joined with a local club! They all showed promising signs of talent that shouldn’t go to waste. Thanks for having me!” Somerset CCC’s Alfie Ogborne
You can read more about the work of the WPA Foundation below:
See the STUMPY programme in action!
