SKY SPORTS ECB COACH EDUCATION PROGRAMME

THREE Oxfordshire coaches were rewarded for their efforts in promoting grassroots cricket with a presentation at the Kia Oval.

Oxford CC’s Rupert Evans and Kingston Bagpuize pair Mandy Rodway and Richard Giles received certificates from former England captain and Oxfordshire player And-rew Strauss during the fifth Investec Ashes Test.

The trio were recognised as part of the Sky Sports ECB Coach Education Programme, which aims to attract and train coaches at all levels of cricket in England and Wales.

Evans, who is Oxford’s director of cricket, oversees the coaches for all sides at the club as well as coaching the under 15s and under 17s.

Evans captained Strauss when he played Oxon against Cornwall in 1996.

His citation described as him as always willing to help with both individuals and teams’ preparation before and during a match, while his passion to improve coaching has seen the club continually progress coaches through the qualifications every year.

Evans said: “As a tutor on the scheme, it is great to watch coaches and players develop, which is what the scheme is all about.”

Giles led the way in establishing a youth section at Kingston Bagpuize when the club was struggling to field two adult league sides.

He has also captained senior sides at the club, helping bring through young players in to senior cricket.

Alongside this, Giles has been working with district age group squads in the winter and is now going to run the Oxfordshire under 15 girls squad.

Giles said: “With the help of the scheme, the club has gone from nothing to producing some great young cricketers, and most importantly getting kids involved in the game.

“From the courses, I am continually learning new skills and tips.”

Rodway has provided key administrative support in establishing the youth section at Kingston Bagpuize.

She has been the first point of contact for children and their parents when they arrive and has fostered a caring and fun environment for children to be introduced to cricket.

Rodway said: “As the youth section is very new, the scheme has been essential in developing and introducing people to coaching at the club.

“It is fantastic to be recognised and appreciated for my efforts. I’ve had a great day.”