Inspirational young people from across Yorkshire’s Performance Pathway were celebrated during a special night at Headingley.
Hundreds of cricketers – from under-11 to under-18 level – took part in an honorary pitch walk, cheered on by thousands watching at the Yorkshire Vikings clash against Durham (Thursday, 11 July).
The annual celebration marked the significant progress and increased opportunities made for young people on the Pathway, over the past two years.
Yorkshire Cricket Club’s young Pathway players were celebrated during the interval of Yorkshire Vikings v Durham Jets last week.
James Martin, Head of Performance Pathway for Yorkshire County Cricket Club (YCCC), said: “It is important to celebrate the success and recognise the future of YCCC.
“Each youngster has shown passion, hard work and dedication in representing our great county, so it’s only right we celebrate and reward this with a special evening for our Pathway players.”
Since the Club’s EDI plan was established in 2021, considerable work has been under way across Yorkshire to make the game more inclusive – including ensuring the Club’s Pathways programme is fair and transparent.
The Club has taken measures to increase access for those from lower income households, including the removal of match fees and thanks to YCCC’s partnership with NIC Services Group LTD and Al Murad, the Club continues it’s pledge of providing free kit for all players.
Winter coaching is provided free of charge and the creation of an accessible hardship fund for those that require further financial support.
Pictured, a group of Yorkshire Performance pathway players enjoyed an honorary pitch walk at headingley.
For 2023/24, 1609 boys have attended observations – an increase of more than 50% since observations were made open to all in 2021 – leading to a more representative Pathway, with 32% from a diverse background and 68% from state schools playing in the Boys’ County Age Group teams this season.
There has been a 140% increase in participation in observations in the Girls’ County Age Group over the last two years with nearly 450 attending, with 18% from a diverse background and 82% from state schools.
Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com – 11/07/2024 – Cricket – Vitality Blast – Yorkshire Vikings v Durham Jets – Headingley Cricket Ground, Leeds, England – Performance pathway players.
James added: “We remain focused on increasing the opportunity for players to move from grassroots through to elite level.
“Our Performance Pathway has been a key building block in ensuring we can encourage greater access to cricket and deliver on our vision creating a Club which is truly welcoming and inclusive for the next generation as well creating an oversupply of cricketers for Yorkshire and England.”
“We are conscious that the results we have seen so far are foundations to be built on.”
“Nevertheless, we are proud of the clear, demonstrable progress that is being made and expect to see it leading to increased representation at senior level in due course.”
Further to the special celebration the Performance Pathway will also be showcased in September when they will play at Headingley Cricket Ground as part of a Pathway Celebration Day.
