Cameron Cooper, a rising cricket star and former student at the Yorkshire Cricket College (YCC), has shared his journey to playing for the England Physical Disability team in a recent interview with the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation. Cam opened up about how he first became involved in cricket, his development as a cricketer during his two years at the college and his realisation that he had the potential to play at a higher level.
He said: “I got into cricket like many other children, playing backyard cricket.
“We had some of our Australian family over and on a number of occasions we had a game in the garden, it wasn’t till later in my career that I really thought I had a shot, up until about 15 I played cricket just for fun.”
Cam credits the Yorkshire Cricket College for playing a significant role in his development as a cricketer.
“The college allowed me to continue with my education, while furthering my skills within cricket as well,” he said.
Cam added: “Having access to the high quality coaches that the college provided really helped me to push forward to the higher levels of the game. To have the opportunity to develop my game alongside my studies was integral to where I am today.”
Naturally, he was thrilled to receive the news that he had been selected to play for the England Physical Disability team for the first time.
“It was a bit surreal at the time, I still pinch myself to this day thinking about that moment,” he said. “It is something you dream of as a kid, getting to represent your country and proudly wear the three lions on your chest.”
Cam talked enthusiastically about how the college coaches inspired and encouraged him throughout his time at the Yorkshire Cricket College.
“The best advice I ever received at the college was never give up,” he said. “The coaches always pushed me to achieve what they knew I could and I still carry their advice with me to this day.”
For young aspiring cricketers who dream of playing for their country one day, Cam offers encouragement.
He said: “I would tell them that sometimes the journey is just as good as the destination.
“If you want to play for your country, there is a lot of hard work that goes into making it, but you have to enjoy every step of the journey.
“There will be tough times but it is important that you continue through these, it is such a brilliant feeling when you reach your goal no matter what has been thrown your way.”
Head Coach of YCC, Matt Green worked with Cam throughout his time at college.
He said: “Working with young players is always exciting, but when you see a special talent like Cam come along, it’s a privilege to be a part of their journey.
“From a young age, it was clear that they had something special – a natural ability and a determination to improve. It’s no surprise to me that they’ve gone on to play for England PD. I always knew they had what it takes to succeed at the highest level.”
Find out more about the Yorkshire Cricket College
The Yorkshire Cricket College offers an excellent opportunity for aspiring cricketers to not only develop their game but also pursue their academic aspirations.
Students can study a level 3 programme, equivalent to 3 A Levels, while simultaneously receiving top-class coaching from experienced professionals. With state-of-the-art facilities, students can hone their skills and take their game to the next level.
Find out more HERE.
& for those interested, there is still a chance to enrol at the college for this September.
To learn more, contact Ben Marriage at [email protected].
