Glamorgan Cricket has teamed up with Cardiff and Vale College to launch a new Education and Cricket Academy, as the college looks to expand its boundaries when it comes to its portfolio of Sport Academies.
Not wanting to be caught out, the CAVC/Glamorgan Cricket Education and Cricket Academy is already on the first foot, with five of its players selected for the Wales U17 Cricket squad: James Archer, Nathan Berry, Ben Davies, Ethan Davies and Scott O’Leary.
The CAVC/Glamorgan Cricket Education and Cricket Academy is part of the College’s growing range of Sport Academies. The academies are designed to provide a supportive and specialist environment that combines first-class coaching and sports facilities with CAVC’s expanding range of courses.
The Academy is open to people who wish to study the BTEC Level 3 at Sophia Gardens and also to CAVC students. They will be coached by Glamorgan's Michael Clayden.
Adam Harrison said: “The CAVC/Glamorgan Education and Cricket Academy is an excellent way to develop the students cricket skills whilst achieving an excellent education at the same time. The opportunity to study and train in a world class test match venue is a unique.
"I believe the partnership between Glamorgan and CAVC will grow from strength to strength and it is an exciting time to be a part of it.”
The Education and Cricket Academy will be hosting taster sessions on the following dates:
• 13th November 1.30-3.30pm
• 20th November 2-3.30pm
• 27th November 2-3.30pm
It will also hold its first Open Evening on Thursday, 21st November at the Indoor Cricket School at Sophia Gardens from 5-7pm.
Academy and Wales U17 player James Archer said: “This course is a great way to learn and better your skills. It’s different to sixth form or school which I prefer because you can work at your pace within the allocated timeframe.
“To be able to work well and then work hard in an indoor training school is incredible and it becomes your day to day routine where you have the opportunity to work and develop your game.
“To represent Wales was a great honour and something that I will always appreciate – I can say I am very lucky to have done it.”
Cardiff and Vale College Principal Kay Martin said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with Glamorgan County Cricket Club. The Academy provides a fantastic opportunity for potential cricket players to develop their academic and sporting excellence hand in hand.
“Glamorgan have been incredibly supportive and being able to train and play at Sophia Gardens will be inspirational for all involved.”
Glamorgan chief executive, Hugh Morris, said: “The partnership with Cardiff and Vale College is a great way for students to improve their cricket skills and gain an excellent education at a world class cricket venue.
“We have already seen a number of players benefit from the course and this number will only increase with the fantastic coaching and teaching on offer.
“I encourage any students with a passion for cricket and an interest in furthering their education to sign up.”