Boost for European coaches

The International Cricket Council has moves to strengthen the coaching network across Europe with the launch of a new initiative.

The European Coaches Association has been set up to help improve links between coaches in England and Wales and those in the rest of Europe.

Launched by ECB managing director cricket partnerships Mike Gatting, the ECA will form part of the ECB Coaches Association, allowing members to share information and opportunities across the continent.

The announcement came during the ICC European Government and Administration Forum, a three-day conference at Lord’s involving 60 administrators from 27 countries across Europe.

Gatting, who also acts as the ambassador for the development of cricket in Europe, said: “ECB’s Strategic Plan is ‘Building Partnerships’, and the partnership with ICC Europe and ECB is one which was established over a decade ago.

“Today’s launch of the European Coaches Association will allow the Europe region to communicate more effectively with their coaches and further develop them with our help.

“ECB's Coach Education Programme has been delivering courses in Europe for 11 years now and this new Association will help to improve that programme further.”

The ECA, which will support the boards of the individual countries, is open to all qualified coaches throughout Europe.

A list of the countries’ representatives and further information on how to join the ECA can be found at www.icceuropecricket.com.