March News
In-Touch Cricket is running a 2 day cricket camp at Epsom College on the 1st & 2nd April. The course will cover skill sets, net practice, fitness element and game play situations with the option of an indoor facility if the weather is bad. To book a place visit our courses page.
In-Touch Cricket Academy squads have a number of fixtures lined up during the 2010 season.
U14 – 18th April v East District / 2nd May Peter Wellings Academy / 30th May Hampshire CAG / 28th July Kent CAG
U12 – 25th April v Hampshire CAG / 1st June Berkshire CAG / 24th July London CCC
In-Touch Cricket Academy appeared in the local press recently – to view the full story please click here
Twenty young cricketers aged u10 to u14 are currently taking part in a mini indoor league cricket competition over a five week period which is great match play preparation for the coming season. Week one saw some high quality cricket with The Chargers beating The Royals and Daredevils beating the Superkings (IPL here we come!). The teams are made up of a mix of club, district & county age group players culminating in a finals week….great fun and very competitive!
Middlesex CCC keeper Ben Scott recently completed a specialist wicket keeping course over a four week period at Wimbledon College. Twelve young keepers were given an insight into the training methods of one of the best gloveman in world cricket. Ben’s professionalism and approach throughout the course had the boy’s in awe!
To view all the images and videos from the course please click here
February News
In-Touch Cricket is currently running an eight week specialised coaching programme for Woodmansterne CC with fourteen young cricketers from U11 to U17. The programme covers various aspects of the game including sessions on playing against spin & pace etc with two In-Touch coaches working alongside three Woodmansterne UKCC2 qualified coaches allowing for a coach education opportunity.
Over the last three weeks twelve young wicketkeepers have taken part in a keeping course led by Middlesex keeper Ben Scott. Scotty who is considered to be one of the best keepers in the country has given the boys an insight into how a pro keeper trains with the simple basics of catching a ball through to some innovative drills. Scotty also gave every keeper some feedback with individual video analysis. To view clips from the sessions visit the In-Touch Flickr site.
As mentioned in previous communications In-Touch Cricket is running a Twenty20 masterclass session during the half term with the confirmed date Thursday 18th February, 10am – 12pm at Epsom College (cost £50). To view images and clips from the Xmas batting & bowling sessions visit In-Touch Flickr site.
In-Touch Cricket has teamed up with Darren Talbot Cricket Coaching based in Surrey. The main focus of DT Cricket Coaching is to get all schools throughout the UK playing cricket on a regular basis and currently run school cricket clubs with over thirty schools nationwide. In-Touch will offer additional coaching for those children who want to develop their cricket further through structured courses and 121 coaching. Additionally there will be a dual organised club six side competition at Epsom College during the summer.
January News
In-Touch Cricket contributed to an article on cricket coaching courses and academies appearing in the January 2010 issue of the Wisden Cricketer Magazine Click here to view the full article
Following on from our highly successful masterclass batting & bowling sessions that ran over Xmas we will be running Twenty20 batting masterclass sessions during the February half term. The likely dates for the two hour sessions is Thurs 18th & Fri 19th February at Epsom College (exact times tbc). The Xmas sessions saw over thirty boys adding to their skills of playing against pace & spin as well as working on their bowling during a specialist bowling session. The half term sessions will be again led by ex Surrey coach Keith Medlycott.
To view video clips and images from the Xmas sessions Click Here
The Friday Night drop in sessions for young cricketers has got off to a great start with twelve boys attending each of the first two sessions. For anyone interested it runs from 6pm to 7.30pm for just £10. Please contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk if you are interested.
Young leg spinner Hugo Leefe who attended the In-Touch elite programme last winter was fortunate enough to meet up with young spin sensation Adil Rashid during a visit to South Africa to watch the current test series. Graham Gooch was also on hand as Rashid offered some sound and simple advise to Hugo..... "Just keep bowling as much as i can, and that coaches always say it but it really does make a difference when you bowl as much as you can. And also cone work, cone work is key because you can see where you want to bowl, and then practice constantly bowling in the area you want to. And he also said not to rush my action, because it will reduce the amount of turn and consistency. He also said to never give up cause I was talented and that he was not a s good as me when he was my age and he only started when he was 15"....Hugo is now based at Worksop College and part of the Nottinghamshire County programme.
In-Touch Cricket will be running various courses starting in January through to the start of the 2010 season catering for various ages and abilities. The schedule for all our courses including midweek programmes, fitness sessions, wicketkeeping masterclass & Elite programme can be located on our courses page.
In addition to our courses programme In-Touch Cricket will be running 'pay as you go' Net sessions on a Friday evening from 6pm to 7.30pm at Epsom College for young cricketers of all ages. If you fancy a hit and a bowl with no commitment please contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk to indicate your interest. The cost is £15 a session and will start on Friday 8th January.
The In-Touch website already has Gallery pages within the site however in addition images will be regulary added to the In-Touch flickr Photostream. To view images of the latest batting and bowling masterclass sessions that ran over the Christmas period please click here. Additionally In-Touch Cricket has it's own Facebook profile.
December News
As mentioned in previous communications In-Touch Cricket can confirm that they will be running Specialist Wicketkeeping sessions at Wimbledon College led by the current Middlesex CCC keeper Ben Scott. It will comprise of four x 2 hour sessions in Jan/Feb 2010. Please contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk to book your place.
Our elite academy age groups participated in another session led by In-Touch specialist coach Ben Haining who is also currently working as a consultant with Surrey CCC emerging players & EPP. Ben took the group through a technical S&C process followed by an innovative session on running between the wickets and throwing technique. Ben will be back in January to assess the group and lead some more sessions.
With the New Year fast approaching In-Touch Cricket will be running various courses starting in January through to the start of the 2010 season catering for various ages and abilities. The schedule for our midweek development courses at Epsom College are available on the link below with the fitness sessions led by Kieron Vorster moving to a Wednesday evening at Nescot College in Ewell. In-Touch Cricket is also looking to run midweek courses in a location in Wimbledon & Croydon from January onwards to be confirmed, so please e-mail matt@intouchcricket.co.uk if this is of interest to you.
Well done to a number of boys involved with In-Touch who have recently been selected for their respective Surrey county age group. Guy Lancefield, Connor Cody, Alex Milton and James Smith at u14, Tom Homes, Connor Wint, Amar Verdi, Michael James, Hayden Storey and Ed Knight at u12, Billy Zander at u11, Gus Leonard, Harri Aravinthan and Jamie Smith at u10. In addition Tom Lace who is part of the Middlesex junior academy and a number of boys selected for winter district squads.
Additionally a few places are also available on our highly successful 10 week elite academy programme at u12 and u14 age groups, which will take place at Trinity School in Croydon which has fantastic facilities.
You may have seen a previous communication regarding a Wicketkeeping course starting in the New Year. We are currently locating a suitable venue to run the course which will be lead by Middlesex keeper Ben Scott who is involved with the academy as a specialist coach. Scotty recently worked with some of the keepers on the elite course where he immediately struck up a great rapport with the boys. Keep an eye on the website for updates.
A few places are still available on the 29th & 30th December batting & bowling Masterclass sessions led by Keith Medlycott. Please e-mail matt@intouchcricket.co.uk to book one of the limited remaining places.
In-Touch Cricket is looking to expand so if you are an experienced qualified cricket coach in your county or area and want to be part of an exciting and growing cricket academy as a Head Coach / Area administrator in your region please visit our careers page for more details.
In Touch is now using Twitter which is free service that lets you keep ‘in touch’ with people through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question.
November News
Well done to u14 cricketers Connor Cody who is an exciting fast bowler & wicketkeeper Alex Milton (pictured below) for their selection onto the Surrey Emerging Player Programme. Both Connor and Alex have been part of the In-Touch Elite programme with Connor also attending the Strength & Conditioning weekly sessions showing fantastic commitment & enthusiasm in his approach.
(L-R Connor / Alex)
If your stuck thinking of ideas for Christmas presents In-Touch is running specialist batting & bowling sessions covering various aspects led by ex Surrey Head Coach In-Touch coach Keith Medlycott.
BATTING - PLAYING AGAINST SPIN - Tues 29th December 10am - 12pm at Epsom College - Cost £50
BATTING - PLAYING FAST BOWLING - Tues 29th December 1pm - 3pm at Epsom College - Cost £50
SPIN BOWLING - Wed 30th December 10am - 12pm at Epsom College - Cost £50
FAST BOWLING - Wed 30th December 1pm - 3pm at Epsom College - Cost £50
Contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk to book your place.
In-Touch Strength & Conditioning coach Ben Haining who runs specialist sessions on the Elite programmes is currently involved as an S&C consultant with Surrey County Cricket Club, working with Emerging Players and the Academy. Ben is a vastly experienced coach having worked with Sussex CCC and is now teaching at Reeds School in Surrey in a full time role.
The Academy is always looking to attract talented coaches and is pleased to announce that Bob Cook is joining the In-Touch coaching team. Bob has been coaching cricket for more than 10 years now and is a UKCC3 coach, ECB Tutor and Assessor, and now Chairman of the ECB Coaches Association, Surrey. He is currently Head Coach of Chessington Cricket Club, coaching players from juniors through to the First XI which, in 2009, secured its third promotion in 4 years. He has also been involved in coaching Surrey District sides since 2004. Whilst working with players of all ages Bob became increasingly aware of the importance of the psychological aspects of playing and enjoying cricket. He has therefore worked for the last four years training and working as a Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), using the skills and techniques to help players enhance their psychological flexibility and skills at the same time as their cricket, specific technical skills. The Academy will be looking to utilise all these skills and experience.
The Elite programme sessions for u12 & u14 ages are well under way with boys being tested physically, mentally, tactically and technically. In the latest session Keith Medlycott led a bowling specific sessions on stock deliveries, yorkers, slower balls, bouncers and variations for the spinners.
October News
Well done to Jamie Smith & Gus Leonard who respectively picked up the Surrey u9 batter and bowler of the year and Tom Homes the u11 player of the year at the County Age Group Awards at the Oval in September. Young Surrey speed sensation Stuart Meaker was on hand to present the awards.
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| Photos: courtesy of Surrey CCC |
In-Touch Cricket is running a 2 day Cricket Camp at Epsom College during the half term on October 29th & 30th. The 2 days will include skill sets, nets and game play. Please visit the courses page for more details or contact coaching@intouchcricket.co.uk for more information.
Good luck to In-Touch Cricket Head Coach Keith Medlycott who is currently captaining the MCC on their tour of Indonesia & Japan. The MCC will play four matches in both countries and will run a coaching session in Japan and three in Indonesia where Medders will come into his own!
Places are still available on the High Performance training camp in La Manga / February 2009 half term 14th – 21st February 2010. Click on links below for more details and contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk Click here for more details
Leading S&C coach Kieron Vorster (Registry of Exercise Professionals Advanced Instructor Level 3 / UKCC2) is currently leading weekly Cricket specific Fitness Sessions at Epsom College. We have seen dramatic improvements in young cricketers through this programme which has also had a knock on effect in all other sporting participation and general concentration levels. Places available after the Oct half term.
The In-Touch Cricket Academy Autumn/Winter coaching courses for young cricketers aged u8 to u14 started the week beginning 14th September 2010. Limited places are still available on some of the courses. Additionally thirty two boys of u12 & u14 of district & county standard are taking part in an Elite 10 week programme at Epsom College. Keep an eye on the website for images and clips from the course.
September News
In-Touch Cricket coach David Nash will be running specialist Wicketkeeping courses starting in Jan 2010. Nashy who retires at the end of the current season represented Middlesex since he was 17 making more than 5,600 first class runs with 11 hundreds and 27 fifties. A very popular character Nashy has a great coaching style that makes him a big favourite with young cricketers. Please e-mail matt@intouchcricket.co.uk to indicate your interest. Additionally Nashy will be involved in our Elite course programme starting in Oct 09 along with Keith Medlycott, Kieron Vorster & Ben Haining
Following on from a highly successful High Performance training camp at La Manga in the February 2009 half term the Academy will again be running another camp from the 14th - 21st February 2010. Click here for more details and visit the Gallery page to view images from the 2009 trip.
Well done to a number of boys involved in the Academy programmes for some notable performances for their respective county age groups. Jamie Smith hit a magnificent 81 for Surrey u9 against Bucks after seeing his side slip to 3 for 3 after 3 over's; Ben Lane for his match figures of 4/2/8/2 against Sussex u12; Bobby Patel (u12), Ed Knight, Hayden Storey and Tom Homes (u11) for their selection and participation in the Taunton Festival in August. The latter scoring 96* and taking 4 wickets against Cornwall in a 2nd wicket stand of 243 with Kiran Beri (126*). Additionally to Tom Lace and Harveer Majahan who opened the batting for Middlesex u11 during the festival.
As from Tues 15th September leading S&C coach Kieron Vorster (Registry of Exercise Professionals Advanced Instructor Level 3 / UKCC2) will again be leading weekly Cricket specific Fitness Sessions at Epsom College. We have seen dramatic improvements in young cricketers through this programme which has also had a knock on effect in all other sporting participation and general concentration levels.
Click here to view interview with Kieron Vorster
The In-Touch Cricket Academy Autumn/Winter coaching courses for young cricketers aged u8 to u14 start the week beginning 14th September 2010. Over 150 boys were involved in the last set of courses that have seen great results during this current season. Limited places are still available. Please visit the courses page for more details
August News
In-Touch Cricket is supporting Teenage Cancer Trust’s summer sun safety campaign, Shunburn which aims to let young people know how to stay safe while enjoying the sun this summer. Research revealed by Teenage Cancer Trust and Superdrug shows that young people are increasing their risk of skin cancer by not taking important precautions in the sun. With young cricketers in the sun particularly between 11 and 3 it is imperative to follow sun safety steps - wear suncream (at least SPF15), wear a hat and sunglasses if possible. For more details visit www.shunburn.co.uk
The In-Touch Cricket Academy schedule for the forthcoming Autumn/Winter coaching courses for young cricketers aged u8 to u14 is now available. Over 150 boys were involved in the last set of courses that have seen great results during this season. The fitness course comes highly recommended! Please visit the website link below for more details.
http://www.in-touchcricketacademy.co.uk/courses.php
Congratulations to the Surrey U13 team who reached the Semi Final of the ECB National Competition beating Hampshire in the Quarter final. Well done to four boys in particular Alex Milton, Connor Cody, Connor Newbold and Greg Dann who are involved in the In-Touch Elite coaching programme.
Surrey U11 left arm spin bowler Tom Homes took the amazing figures of 6.4-5-1-7 at Charterhouse in late July playing against Berkshire. A shining light for In-Touch Cricket Tom is also on the verge of hitting 50 wickets and 500 runs for the season including club and district cricket. To view the story in full on the Surrey website please view the link below.
http://www.britoval.com/news/extraordinary-figures-u11-star
Thanks to Epsom College for the continued support to In-Touch Cricket Academy and Adidas who have recently agreed to continue the support as the official supplier of kit to the In-Touch Cricket Academy along with Romida Sports in Leatherhead as the commercial arm.
July News
Although the season is in full swing the In-Touch Cricket Academy is currently preparing the schedule for the forthcoming Autumn/Winter coaching programme for young cricketers aged u8 to u15 at Epsom College. Over 150 boys were involved in the last set of courses that have seen great results during this season. The Elite programme will again involve ex Surrey Coach and Head Coach of the Academy Keith Medlycott and Fitness sessions led by Strength & Conditioning coaches Kieron Vorster and Ben Haining. Additionally we are looking at the current Middlesex keeper David Nash running some specialist wicketkeeping sessions. Full details can be located on the courses page.
Head Coach Keith Medlycott is heading off to the sunny climbs of La Manga in Spain for 5 weeks to head up the La Manga/In-Touch Academy. With his vast experience as a top flight coach Medders will run coaching camps for young cricketers of varying ages which will enhance the partnership of In-Touch Cricket with the renowned La Manga brand.
The In-Touch Cricket summer coaching courses in July and August at Epsom College for 6 to 14 year olds so please visit the courses page to see the full schedule and contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk for more information. Twenty20 Theme! The cost of the course has now been reduced to £85 for the 2 day courses and £50 for 1 day.
With a wealth of experience within the In-Touch Coaching team we will be running specialist workshops for enthusiastic coaches over the Autumn and Winter months including various aspects of coaching & mentoring young cricketers…more detail to follow.
The In-Touch Cricket summer coaching courses in July and August at Epsom College for 6 to 14 year olds are filling quickly so please visit the courses page to see the full schedule and contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk for more
June News
During the winter coaching programme ex Sussex Strength & Conditioning coach Ben Haining led two specialist coaching sessions on the various aspects of running between the wicket and the throwing technique. To view clips from the throwing session please visit the courses page.
The In-Touch Cricket summer coaching courses in July and August at Epsom College for 6 to 14 year olds are filling quickly so please visit the courses page to see the full schedule and contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk for more information. Twenty20 Theme!
In-Touch Cricket coaches are currently running a specialist course for year 4 & 5 pupils from Caterham Prep School. The course is specifically tailored covering various facets of the game over an eight week period.
May News
An In-Touch u12 team took on a West u12 district in a friendly fixture at Epsom College on the 24th May. Batting first the Academy reached a respectable total of 164 with Thorpe 39, Powell 28, Fernando 27 & Saward 25 the main run scorers. In reply West struggled early on to keep up with the required run rate, however reached the target (Christie 57) in the penultimate over in what was a game played in great spirit.
With the season up and running well done to some boys that have been part of the In-Touch programme over the winter months seeing their hard work coming to fruition. Ben Stephenson scoring 98 for Trinity, Matt MacPherson with an 70, 80 plus followed by a century for Reeds, Greg Dann 70 & 55 for In-Touch plus another 70 plus for Whitgift and u13 skipper James Smith for his 87 of 51 balls in the 1st round of Surrey district matches.
The Academy travelled to Polo Farm Canterbury for a fixture against a full Kent u13 county side on Sunday 3rd May. Captain James Smith lost the toss on what turned out to be a pretty good batting surface with the Kent openers taking advantage of any loose deliveries, with an opening stand of 72. Kent maintained a good run rate throughout the innings to post a good early season total of 188 for 4. Special mention to Connor Newbold who again bowled with excellent flight and control with figures of 8/0/23/1. In reply Dann and Homes got the Academy off to a great start with a 1st wicket partnership of 92 with Dann in particular punishing any loose balls, with a couple of lusty blows over the leg side boundary before retiring on 55. Homes kept the scoreboard ticking over with the incoming Rehman before being dismissed for a solid 32. The required run rate was maintained in the latter stage of the innings with the pressure firmly on the Kent bowlers. Rehman controlled the game superbly to the finish with little cameos from both Lloyd and Leefe. Cody struck the winning runs in what was a very mature run chase. Scorecard - In-Touch v Kent
The schedule for the In-Touch Cricket Academy Summer Coaching Courses is now finalised and available on the courses page at for cricketers aged 6/8yrs to 14yrs old.
April News
On Sunday 26th April In-Touch Cricket Academy played Hampshire u13 on the main square at Epsom College. Blessed with glorious blue skies Hampshire batted well on a good early season surface, reaching a total of 172 for 7 with fifty from Coulson and 45 from Marston. Notable performers with the ball were spinners Leefe and Newbold. The reply from In-Touch was tough going with an impressive display in the field from the Hampshire outfit. The only batter to really get going was Greg Dann with a well constructed 70. Scorecard - In-Touch v Hants
The In-Touch Cricket Academy recently arranged a musculo skeletal screening for young u11 cricketer Ed Knight with Michael Nicol who is the Clinic Director of Sport Dimensions. Doing musculo skeletal screenings from an early age are vital for the physical development of an athlete. By doing the screening every six months you can identify what muscles are weak, tight and imbalanced. By prescribing simple corrective exercises we can then monitor the progress of the athlete and correct all necessary imbalances’.
Screening Results 
- What Does It All Mean?
One of the most important areas of physical conditioning and injury prevention is stability. There are two types of stability, low level stability which is the type of stability that we need from day to day and high level stability which is the type of stability that is required for sporting activity like cricket. Both areas of stability are vital to maintain good function and prevent injury. The other key area is flexibility and in particular balance of muscle groups and balance between left and right. The screening that we have carried out assesses all of these areas and the results are outlined below.
Primary Areas for Improvement
Low level control of rotation of the pelvis / High level control of extension (arching) of the lower back / General stability of the shoulder
Summary of Findings
Ed is a good athlete for someone of his age. However with some specific training he can improve his stability and decrease his risk of injury over the coming years of playing cricket. The major areas that he needs to work on are his low level control of rotation at his pelvis and his high level control of arching of the lower back, the arching being particularly important to a fast bowler. The other area that he can improve on is his shoulder. Normally I try and give specifics but in Ed’s case no one aspect is particularly bad but there can be improvement throughout the shoulder so we will working on this generally to begin with and then progress.
His score was 18/75 with an ideal score being as close to zero as possible.
If you are interested in a musculo skeletal screenings for a young cricketer or would like more details please contact coaching@intouchcricket.co.uk
With the season now under way 121 specialist coaching are available with Level 3 coach Matt Homes based at the Epsom College facility. For further details or book a session email matt@intouchcricket.co.uk or call Matt on 0844 2492805.
The 2 Day Easter course on the 13th & 14th April at Epsom College was blessed with early summer sunshine and allowed 25 boys aged from 11 to 14 to get lots of outside practice covering nets, batting skill sets, fielding, outdoor games and finishing each day with some competitive football matches. Fun was had by all!
From Monday 27th April In-Touch Cricket is running mini cricket sessions for children aged U7 & U8 (girls & boys) at Epsom College. Please go to the courses page for more details.
During the October Half Term 24th Oct - 1st Nov 2009 the Academy is planning an U12 / U14 Tour to Dubai including Flights, 4 Star Hotel, 5 games (2/3 D/N), Practice sessions. Click here for more details
With the cricket season around the corner exciting times are ahead for the In-Touch Cricket Academy. Keith Medlycott is heading off to La Manga to run the La Manga/In-Touch Cricket Academy programme over the Easter / May & Summer periods, with the intention of also running High Performance weeks for young talented cricketers from around the globe. Click here for more details
The first week in April will see the last few sessions of the In-Touch Cricket Academy Autumn/Winter programme, which has seen young cricketers participate in cricket & fitness courses throughout the weeks with 40 plus boys of district & county standard involved in our Elite programme. However courses will continue to run midweek for 12 weeks from April to July 09 (Girls welcome). Additionally the Academy is running as Easter course (full), May Half term course plus three Summer Camps plus. One2one coaching sessions can be booked at anytime calling Matt on 0844 2492805 or email matt@intouchcricket.co.uk . Please go to our courses page for further details.
Over the next week video clips from the Elite programme will appear on the website including the brilliant throwing technique session from Ben Haining, as well as a number of fielding / fitness drills which are well worth watching!
A special mention to Academy coaches Mark Cody and Sam Schofield who have both been great hits with the kids over the last six months, with their great enthusiasm. Mark is now putting his skills into full practice in his second year on the ‘Chance to Shine’ programme and Sam is in the final throws of completing his UKCC2.
The Academy has good quality early season action with U13 fixtures against Hampshire and Kent in late April / early May. The teams have been selected from boys who have participated in the successful Elite programme over the Autumn/Winter period. Reports and scorecards will appear on the site in due course.
March News
The In-Touch Cricket Academy is excited to announce that we have teamed up with the renowned La Manga Club as an ‘Official Cricket Academy Partnership’. Based in Murcia, Southern Spain the La Manga Club has two cricket pitches and four astro-turf nets in amongst grounds including a five star Hotel & luxury self catering apartments. The partnership will initially see Head Coach Keith Medlycott run a coaching programme during the Easter, May half term and summer holiday. Combined with this will be the opportunity to run ‘High Performance Weeks’ for talented young cricketers from various parts of the world.
Please click here for more details
With the Easter break approaching fast the Academy is running a 2 day course at Epsom College on the 13th & 14th April. Please e-mail coaching@intouchcricket.co.uk or call 0844 2492805 to book a place.
Since September 2008 up to 150 young cricketers have taken part in various Cricket & Fitness courses run by the In-Touch Cricket Academy. Due to the success and demand the courses will continue after the Easter break throughout the summer term at Epsom College. Further details will be updated on the website in the coming weeks.
Additionally 121 coaching is available so please e-mail matt@intouchcricket.co.uk for availability and cost.
February News
La Manga Training Camp – 15th – 22nd February
Day 1
After many months of preparation the inaugural In-Touch Cricket Academy camp set off from Gatwick airport in the early hours of Sunday morning with seventeen boys and five coaches excited by forthcoming week that lay ahead. Both the check in and British Airways flight was very smooth with our arrival at Alicante airport on time at 11.15am. While queuing to collect the keys to three Mercedes people carriers, the boys were already in the mood for some early cricketing action playing a bit of cricket in the airport lobby. We all then set off for the hour’s journey up the coast to La Manga with our cars packed tightly with bodies and cricket bags. Coach Vorster led the way at a pace followed by Homesy who had a few troubles with the left hand drive scenario and Medders who had a sick car that struggled to keep up with the pace! A few spots of rain concerned the boys on route however the blue skies broke as we neared Murcia much to our relief. On arrival at the Los Lomas Village within the La Manga complex the group quickly settled into the comfortable townhouse accommodation before they were treated into an insight of the week ahead by completing a 3km run with lots of steep inclines involved! Amazingly there was still lots of energy to burn so the boys created small games of street cricket and finished the day off with an evening meal at the ‘Si Bar’ while watching day one of the Test match in the Caribbean.
Day 2
After a dynamic fitness warm up Medders led the boys into the first net session with a number of the boys not too focused and in a negative frame of mind in the new environment. It was noted by many how the feel and sound of the ball differed from the many previous months spent in the indoor nets. After a reality de-briefing chat from Medders we all hit the local supermarket to stock up the cupboards with some interesting purchases from a number of boys! We returned to the cricket facility after lunch where the boys had a middle session on the astro followed by a skills set session on batting alignment, freeing the hands, slog hits and hitting over the top incorporating decision making. Medders certainly showed how he coaches with a real innovative feel and style. The day’s activities were then rounded of with a competitive game of football with Nathan Robinson feeling the pain with a knock on the ankle and heading the Oscar nomination for the week! The evening was spent indulging in Pizza’s with lights out at 10pm as there were a few tired eyes.
Day 3
The boys woke with anticipation of what laid ahead of them on a fitness perspective and were not let down when they had a ten lap warm up around a full size football pitch to contend with at the start of the day. Pip France showed his amazing athleticism completing the distance at great pace! As the blue skies and warm conditions yet again pleased everyone the group entered a skills set session that was enjoyed by all on the various types of sweep and Pietersen switch hit. After lunch it was back for net session number two which saw a vast improvement on focus and concentration levels from the previous day. It was great to see the boys look to utilise some of the early morning sweeps taken into the net session with a pretty high skill level. The finish of the session coincided with the start of a Norwegian Premier League game due to their season weather break, starting on one of the many fantastic pitches on the La Manga complex that kept us nicely entertained late in the day. The evening meal saw Coach Vorster show his handy work at the bbq grill which went down really well with all the boys.
Day 4
The group were treated to the morning off after the three full on previous days! Some boys chilled out while others played crazy golf, hit the supermarket or went for a swim. After lunch it was straight into another middle practice session followed by nets and yet again the skill levels and focus was top draw! The day ended with a game of Vortex and another visit to the ‘Si Bar’ in the evening.
Day 5
A slightly later start saw one of the toughest and most physically demanding days with an hour and half long fitness session on rough terrain. A visit to the supermarket for lunch gave the boys a much needed longer recovery period. After lunch the group was split into two with the younger cricketers taking part in a middle practice while the older group netted, followed by a fielding session. The end of play again culminated with the start of a Norwegian top flight game which gave the boys a relaxing end to the day although many continued to practice in the nets. The evening meal was arranged at Luigi’s Italian restaurant to celebrate Coach Foster’s birthday in style! Nathan Baily stood up to say Happy Birthday on behalf of the boys and Graham gave a heart felt speech as the surprise Birthday cake arrived. This was yet again another great evening where boys, coaches and the few parents who made the trip interacted brilliantly!
Day 6
The day started with a skills session on back foot play including the forcing shot, hip turn, cut shot and pull shot. Again after lunch this was followed with the groups splitting into two for net and a middle practice. The younger group then finished with a light fielding session. With the success of the Tuesday night bbq it was all round to Coach Cody’s to fire up the grill. Another fun evening followed!
Day 7
We all woke on Saturday morning to the warmest day of the trip and the boys certainly felt it after a repeat of the 3km run on day one. The effort and camaraderie of the boys shone through during the run with Pip France coming home in top spot again! It was also great to see Medders and Vos complete the run in determined style. It was then rest time before the final net session of the week which showed great improvements in all the boys. Head Coach Keith Medlycott gave the boys a de-brief on the weeks training and showed us all how lucky the In-Touch Cricket Academy is to have someone of Medders knowledge and experience. Having toured the Caribbean with England in 1990 Medders outlined the many aspects of touring overseas as a cricketer that you have to consider both on an off the pitch. He also expressed how the coaches hoped that the boys could always utilise them as mentors both in life and cricket in the future.
In summary the boys had a great life learning experience and the coaches felt themselves fortunate to work with such a great set of young cricketers!
Images to follow soon on the Gallery pages
Last Saturday ex Sussex S&C coach Ben Haining led yet another specialist session focusing on fielding and in particular the various methods of technique used in throwing a cricket ball. The elite group of boys were put through a number of drills with some improved techniques on view at the end of the session, as well as a few sore arms! Images from the session can be viewed in the Gallery link within the Courses page.
With the current extreme weather conditions hitting the South of England the Academy training camp trip to La Manga jets off on the 15th February. The programme will involve a daily strength & conditioning session alongside various cricketing skill sets throughout the week. It will be a great learning experience for both young cricketers and coaches with lots of fun to be had as well! Keep an eye out for a review and tour images.
The Academy has added a further fixture to the summer calendar with an u12 game against the Peter Wellings Academy. Peter is an ex Middlesex pro who runs a Cricket Academy based in North London.
Current Fixture list - 26th April v Hampshire u13 at Epsom College / 3rd May v Kent u13 at Polo Farm / 24th May v Peter Wellings Academy u12 at Epsom College / 7th June v Barmy Army Colts at Epsom College.....more dates to follow
In-Touch Cricket is now into week four of its post Christmas programme with seven new boys joining those who participated pre Christmas. The course has an intensive hour long strength & conditioning element led by Kieron Vorster and has seen amazing improvements in the fitness levels of the boys. Congratulations in particular to Connor Newbold who won his school cross country event after finishing 5th the previous year!
The midweek fitness course is now thriving with over fifteen boys and girls being put through a tough regime on a weekly basis with positive feedback from both children and parents.
January News
Since the In-Touch Cricket Academy inaugural courses started back in September 08 up to 150 boys have come through the Academy programmes. This has been made possible with the continued support from Epsom College with it’s great facilities, both parents and young cricketers involved plus the passion & enthusiasm of all the coaches input to date. Without this help & support the Academy would not have progressed at such an encouraging rate so many thanks to everyone that has played a part, including those who take an interest to read the Academy news and visit the website.
The Elite 10 week course for U11 to U14 cricketers completed in December 08, which was a great success. The course included specialist coaching from Keith Medlycott, David Nash, Ben Haining plus a Nutritionist workshop. There are limited places are still available on the new course starting starting 17th January.
The In-Touch Cricket Academy runs a Cricket specific weekly fitness session led by our Strength & Conditioning coach Kieron Vorster. We have seen vast improvements in the fitness levels of all the participants with our first couple of girls involved in the course. Fitness sessions are also included in all our cricket programmes.
December News
In the penultimate week of the Elite course Ben Haining, who is the ex Sussex Strength & Conditioning Coach led a specialist session on the techniques of batters running between the wicket. It was enlightening and educational for both the Boys / Coaches and the Academy will look to keep Ben involved moving forward. More images can be viewed on the blog pages.
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| Ben talks through arm/bat positioning |
Boys listen to Kathryn |
The Academy was treated to a presentation by Nutritionist Kathryn Bistany of Corpotential Limited. The content was based on educating the boys on Hydration, Eating for performance, Eating on match days amongst other subjects.
The Academy is looking for a number of fixtures at various age groups for the 2009 season, so please contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk if you are interested. Currently the U13s have early season fixtures against Hampshire and Kent.
November News
As mentioned in the October News, the In-Touch Cricket Academy is running a training camp to La Manga from the 14th to the 21st of February (Half Term) 2009 led by ex Surrey Coach Keith Medlycott and Matt Homes. There will also be a big emphasis on Fitness, with Strength & Conditioning Coach Kieron Vorster leading the sessions throughout the week. A total of 16 boys will participate in the camp aimed at good standard 11 to 14 year olds and currently only 4 places are available so contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk or call 07984 830412
Thirty boys are almost half way through participating in a 10 week Elite course at Epsom College, working on various cricket skills involving Academy coaches Keith Medlycott, Matt Homes and David Nash, plus an intensive Fitness programme led by Kieron Vorster. Over the next few weeks the boys will also benefit from a Nutrition workshop and specialist Strength & Conditioning session led by ex Sussex S&C coach Ben Haining, who currently works for the LTA. Over 20 boys involved in the courses have also been selected for County Age Group assessments so well done and good luck to those involved.
After 24 years at Allsport Photographic/Getty Images Head Coach Matt Homes has left the company to focus solely on coaching and running the In-Touch Cricket Academy alongside Kieron Vorster. This will allow a more concentrated effort to grow and move the Academy forward at pace.
October News
The In-Touch Cricket Academy is running a training camp in La Manga from 14th to the 21st of February(Half term) 2009. Ex Surrey coach Keith Medlycott will be joining us for the week to help run the camp utilising his vast experience as an Elite coach. Keith coached Surrey to three championship titles during his time at Surrey. Only four places are still available for good standard cricketers aged between 11 and 14 so please contact matt@intouchcricket.co.uk for further details.
After 24 years at Allsport Photographic/Getty Images Head Coach Matt Homes has left the company to focus solely on coaching and running the In-Touch Cricket Academy alongside Kieron Vorster. This will allow a more concentrated effort to grow and move the Academy forward at pace.
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| Photo: Gettty Images |
Photo: Gettty Images |
La Manga Complex |
The In-Touch Cricket Academy official cricket kit supplier adidas are to release their first cricket range for 2009, which coincides with Kevin Pietersen's new recently signed adidas bat deal. Pietersen already has a boot deal with adidas and is sponsored to wear their leisurewear through the England team sponsorship. This is obviously great timing for the In-Touch Cricket Academy to be involved with such a great brand!
September News
In-Touch Cricket Academy is delighted to announce that ex Surrey player & coach Keith Medlycott has joined the coaching team. The Academy will utilise Medders vast experience and knowledge within the game, where he will be leading skill sets at a specialist level. Please go to coach's page for more details.
Congratulations to Tom Homes who won the Surrey u10 bowler of the year 2008 Award presented by the current Surrey captain Mark Butcher at the Oval on the 2nd September.
August News
The In-Touch Cricket Academy hosted fixtures on the 21st & 22nd August against Hampshire u12 at Epsom College and The Barmy Army Colts at Ashtead Cricket Club. Both games were close encounters with the In-Touch Academy coming out on top. Special mention to Calum Basey (80 not out v Barmy Army Colts). Click links below for scorecards.......
In-Touch Cricket Academy v Hampshire u12
In-Touch Cricket Academy v Barmy Army Colts u12
The In-Touch Cricket Academy is delighted to confirm that the Academy will be based at the superb location of Epsom College from September 2008. Close to the market town of Epsom and the famous Epsom Downs, Epsom College nestles in 80 acres at the foot of the Downs. The extensive sports facilities make a perfect partnership for the Academy.
July News
Well done to Alex Waterman who has just secured the final spot for the Surrey u12 tour to Taunton in August. Alex was part of the In-Touch winter programme and also attended the Ian Pont ABSAT coaching workshop organised by the In-Touch Cricket Academy in April.
Ashtead Cricket Club u12s defeated Wimbledon in a close encounter at St Johns School Leatherhead, with six Academy boys playing key roles in the victory. (Williams, Basey, Homes S, Pittam, Homes T, Thorpe).
The In-Touch Cricket Academy has announced it's Autumn Elite coaching programme so please visit the courses page where you can download a provisional booking form.
Congratulations to six talented boys who are involved with the In-Touch Cricket Academy who have been selected for the Surrey u12 tour to Taunton in August. They are Calum Basey, Connor Cody, Guy Lancefield, Alex Milton, Dom Sibley & Connor Newbold. Additionally Tom Homes has been selected for the Surrey u10 tour to Malvern.
The In-Touch Cricket Academy is pleased to announce that David Nash of Middlesex CCC will be part of the coaching team for the autumn / winter programme working with the main academy elite squad. Please take a look at the coaches page.
On August 21st & 22nd the Academy has two fixtures lined up against Hampshire u12 at Epsom College and The Barmy Army Colts u12 at Ashtead CC. The teams selected are as follows.
Hampshire - Sibley, Basey, Dann, Walters, Milton (wkt), Cody, France, Leefe, Lancefield, Patel, Pittam, Williams.
Barmy Army Colts - Basey, France, Stephenson, Cody, Milton, Lancefield, Waterman, Thorpe, Richardson, Patel, Leefe, Pittam.
June News
In recent weeks a number of boys who are part of the In-Touch Cricket Academy have been selected for their respective Surrey County age group. They are as follows at u13 Dom Sibley u12 Nick Williams, Sam Homes, Connor Cody, Connor Newbold, Guy Lancefield, Hugo Leefe, Alex Waterman, Alex Milton, Calum Basey (capt) u11 Henry Thorpe, Bobby Patel, Kurt Richardson u10 Tom Homes. Well done to all the boys and their match stats can be viewed at www.in-touchcricketacademy.co.uk.
In the next couple of weeks In-Touch will hopefully be in a position to announce a new location for the Academy which will be an exciting step forward, with high profile independent school.
The Academy also currently uses adidas training kit and they will hopefully be an official kit supplier in the near future. adidas are the new England kit supplier and will have a full range of cricket equipment coming soon.
In the Feb 09 half term the In-Touch Cricket Academy will be taking a group of talented youngsters to La Manga which has great facilities, for some pre season training including a Strength and Conditioning programme with our fitness coach Kieron Vorster. This will be a high quality unique package which will potentially be replicated for Easter 09.
May News
In-Touch Cricket Academy and the World Cricket Academy (WCA) with the main location in Mumbai have mutually decided to work together. The World Cricket Academy creates and structures international development programmes "for cricketers by cricketers" catering to both professionals and amateurs in a variety of age groups and abilities.More details to follow. Go to links page for the WCA website link.
The Academy are pleased to announce that John Basey has joined the In-Touch Cricket coaching team. For a full biog please go to the coaches page.
Head Coach Matt Homes recently completed the unique ABSAT coaching course to gain an understanding and learn the secrets of how to coach fast bowling. The ABSAT qualification will work alongside current ECB coaching practices used by the In-Touch Cricket Academy.
As a lot of young cricketers will be aware the England National team has recently changed kit suppliers, partnering with Adidas. The In-Touch Cricket Academy has followed in their footsteps in what is a really 'cool' brand! At this stage In-Touch Cricket Academy tracksuits are currently available which can be viewed on the gallery section. Coming soon will be training shirts, shorts, sweatshirts, caps and other items.
In-Touch Cricket Academy recently had a successful meeting with a high profile independent school based in Surrey and is hopeful of having a permanent home in September 2008. The school in question has brilliant cricketing facilities and would be a perfect partner for the Academy.
In-Touch Cricket Academy currently has a fixture with the Barmy Army Colts u12s arranged for the 22nd Aug and will confirm fixtures against Hampshire and Sussex u12's in the coming weeks.
Plans are in place for the Academy to run a Cricket Camp during the February 2009 half term to resort of La Manga, Spain which has great Cricket facilities. More details will be available soon.
April News
I am pleased to announce that the In-Touch Cricket Academy has teamed up with Kieron Vorster who is a professional Strength & Conditioning Coach, who is currently the CEO of The David Lloyd Tennis Academy (Please see the coaches section at www.in-touchcricketacademy.co.uk for further biog details). This signals a real intention of nurturing young high performance cricketers to an advanced level, where Strength & Conditioning in particular is becoming an integral part of the sport.
Teamgroup after the last session of the 10 week In-Touch Academy course at Downsend School in Surrey, Jan-April 08.
Although the season is excitingly almost upon us plans are in place for the In-Touch Academy to run a intensive twenty week programme during the off season (08/09) pre and post Christmas, covering technical, tactical, mental and physical aspects of the game where individual fitness programmes specific to cricket will designed for each student. The initial course will be aimed at the u12 age group (current season).
During the season we will post weekly news, quotes and coaching tips on the site for young cricketers including cricket specific exercises, so please visit the site regularly for updates.
On the 19th April In-Touch Cricket has organised a specialist fast bowling workshop with fourteen boys introduced by Ian Pont (“The Fast Bowling Doctor”) who is the founder of Mavericks Cricket Coaching and an ECB National Skills Set bowling coach. Keep an eye out for a review report and images later in the month.
