A new and innovative programme, designed to nurture and advance the talents of exceptional cricket players across the Loughborough Schools Foundation, has been launched.

The Cricket Player Pathway is for pupils from Year 9 onwards, who exhibit both remarkable talent in cricket and a profound commitment to excelling in the sport. Selected players will benefit from an enhanced and comprehensive training experience, along with the chance to further develop and hone their cricketing skills.

The training will develop all aspects of the players’ game, including game analysis, gym sessions, and extra cricket training; whilst ensuring they are fully prepared mentally, as well as physically, to compete at the highest level.

Participating pupils will have the opportunity to train at both the Foundation’s campus, as well as Loughborough University’s Centre of Excellence Cricket facilities. Additionally, in the coming academic year, pupils on the pathway will have the opportunity to learn from internationally renowned coaches from the cricketing world.

The programme has been made possible thanks to the support from Loughborough Grammar’s very own Archivist, self-professed cricket fanatic John Weitzel. John joined Loughborough Grammar in 1978 as a staff member, became Deputy Headmaster in 2003, and then retired after 38 years of service before volunteering as the School’s Archivist.

A new kit, exclusively for boys in the Player Pathway Programme, was unveiled by John during a celebration event to mark the programme’s launch. He said: “I still have my school cricket cap awarded 50 years ago displayed in my office at home. For most of those 50 years I have been heavily involved with cricket at the School, being in charge for 12 years; and it gives me great pleasure to now support the cricket pathway. I hope the boys will have their caps proudly on display in 50 years from now in 2074, after spending a lifetime involved in the sport like I have!”

Will, Year 13 and 1XI Cricket Captain, who is a participant on the programme said: “It’s such a great opportunity for young aspiring cricketers between the ages of 14-18. It doesn’t only support senior players at the school but also younger players, as they are able to learn from their elders in a friendly environment. The pathway also offers 1 on 1 coaching with the best coaches, meaning that young cricketers will develop their understanding of the game as well as their performance in it.”

Speaking about the transformative initiative, Alex Aldred, Head of Cricket for the Loughborough Schools Foundation, said: “Having the Player Pathway for the Foundation will allow us to push our elite cricketers to the next level. It will give them specialist coaching from some of the best coaches in the country and allow them to train all year round.”

“This new initiative is testament to Loughborough Schools Foundation’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence and personal growth among its pupils, ensuring they have the best opportunities to succeed both in cricket and in life beyond our schools.”