Pupils from seven Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools have taken part in a cricket festival to mark Disability History Month.
Around 200 children from Hereward College, Ninestiles, Queensbury, Sherbourne Fields, Hallmoor, Woodlands School, and Hawthorn Primary took part in the fun tournament at Edgbaston, the home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club.
The event was organized by the cricket club’s foundation, which runs sessions throughout the year at SEN schools across the county.
It is the latest initiative run by the club, in conjunction with the Lord Taverners, to make cricket accessible for people with learning or physical disabilities.
“Just seeing the energy, enthusiasm and smiling faces, goes to show that there are no barriers to the sport,” said Nigel Perry-Ogden from Warwickshire County Cricket Club Foundation.
“I find it rewarding because you get so much back from these kids, immediate feedback, they are enjoying it, not trying to hide their emotions. If they’re having a good time, we know about it. It’s why I love working with SEN schools.
“But there are also opportunities for people with special needs to get involved in cricket in other ways, not just playing. We have members of the Access team currently taking their coaching badges.”
One of those is Haroon Irshad. He is autistic and a member of the Warwickshire Access disability team which played in the national D40 hardball league for the first time last season.
“I want to help kids like me who have disabilities or special needs, to participate in cricket,” said Haroon.
“I used to attend Ninestiles, which was one of the schools at the festival. Connecting cricket with disabilities is something I’m passionate about.
“There was someone at the festival in a wheelchair, hitting a ball and getting involved. It shows how inclusive cricket is. I would say it’s the most accessible sport out there.”
To find out more visit https://edgbaston.com/foundation/
Comments