Tomorrow eight teams from six schools in the Paeroa area will be participating in the Cricket Skills Challenge hosted by the Northern Districts Cricket Association and New Zealand Cricket.
Year seven and eight pupils from Netherton School, Miller Ave School, Tirohia School, Paeroa Christian School, St Josephs School and Karangahake School will take part in the challenge which consists of five skill stations at Centennial Park.
The participants will be put through two batting stations, including a drive shot and a pull shot, catching, bowling and throwing. Each team gets points for their efforts and the teams with the top three scores will gain an award.
New Zealand Cricket Primary development officer Chris Ferguson said many of the students from around the area haven’t tried cricket, so this is a good chance for them to give it a go. “It’s a small area and the plan is to give them a taste of cricket,” he said. “Hopefully the kids enjoy it and get involved with cricket, whether it’s in the MILO Cup or Shield.”
The format of the “Top Town” skills challenge can also been used within a school environment. “Teachers can use the skills sessions in the P.E classes,” he said. “They are great to teach kids about catching, throwing, striking and hand/eye coordination.”
12 pupils make up each team with a mixture of boys and girls.
What: Cricket Skills Challenge
Where: Centennial Park, Paeroa, 10am to 1pm
Who: Run by New Zealand Cricket and NDCA involving six local schools
