CYP Now - The National Youth Agency: Comment

Howzat? Even as I wait nervously for the first ball of the final Ashes test at the Oval, which will decide whether this summer has been a good one or not irrespective of the weather (you'll of course know the result by the time you read this). Despite the reception meted out to Ricky Ponting and the Barmy Army and their trumpeter at the last test match at Headingley, it's reassuring to know that cricket is still a civilising influence on the people who play, and presumably watch it.

For, it's official, cricket is helping young people to become more disciplined, more engaged and more tolerant towards one another. Research also highlights how the inclusive nature of cricket is helping to reconnect previously marginalised school pupils.

These are among the findings of an independent report by Loughborough University into StreetChance, a three-year project being delivered initially across 10 London boroughs. Launched in July last year, it uses cricket to engage young people from a range of backgrounds in areas affected by youth crime and antisocial behaviour. Coaches, mostly young people themselves, have been trained in Street 20 cricket, a quick, easy to play and accessible version of the game played at a frantic pace anywhere with a flat surface.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included