The Little Pages March/April 2016 | Page 28

KFC GIVES SUPPORT TO Opportunity to take it further Eager young cricket stars now have the opportunity to develop their skills as the Port Elizabeth KFC franchise signed a deal in August last year to support the sport at grass roots level. Since then, four cricket clinics have been held across the city, with young players benefitting from exposure to expert coaching including input from Warriors players. Family fun at the T20 U13 Knockout Challenge developing young cricketers In August last year, EP Cricket and the local Port Elizabeth KFC franchise signed a partnership deal which would see KFC contribute a substantial amount to the development of cricket at grass roots and school level. Cricket Clinics provide coaching opportunities coaching from cricketing professionals while those that are new to the sport are learning the basics. “At each clinic so far, the engagement with the children and the professional coaches and Warriors players has been invaluable” says Aimee de la Harpe, local KFC marketing manager. Each of the six planned coaching festivals will allow children from the surrounding area to participate in a structured, fun afternoon of professional coaching facilitated by professional coaches and local favourites, the Warriors. “Through this partnership KFC has once again shown their commitment to the upliftment of the community and support of our endeavors to promote the game” said EP Amateur Cricket Manager Tono Mle. So far four clinics have been held, the first taking place in October at the Dan Qeqe stadium in Zwide and most recently one in Gelvandale. Talented young cricketers are being given the chance to receive one on one 26 “Each of the six planned coaching festivals will allow children from the surrounding area to participate in a structured, fun afternoon of professional coaching.” Those who show promise have the opportunity to be noticed by Eastern Province Cricket as they have been scouting talent at the coaching clinics and have identified a few individuals who show talent. These children are then encouraged to join the closest cricketing hub so that they can continue to grow and develop into future cricketing stars. The second phase of the partnership between EP Cricket and KFC is a the T20 U13 Knockout Challenge which kicked off in January. The tournament sees 100 local primary schools play off against each other with a final being played at a family fun day at St Georges Stadium on the 12th of March. The young players will experience the excitement of playing under lights at the finals , while families can enjoy entertainment such as a jumping castle and face-painting. Braai facilities will also be available. The knockout challenge seeks to promote excellent cricket at a primary school level in the hope of promoting and nurturing talent in our province. Come and join us for the T20 Knockout Challenge finals weekend on the 12th March 2016 at St Georges Stadium 9-12am: Semi Final | 1-4pm: Semi Final | 6-9pm: Final (under lights) 27 27