Over the last five weeks the IOM Cricket Excellence program has really started to gather momentum under the watchful eye of new coach Greig Wright and his two supporting coaches Sally Green and Mark Williams.

Greig's experience has brought a different approach to coaching and this has already started to get the best out of the group of players.

Recently we spent time focusing on all aspects of fielding, from underarm throw to attacking the ball and catching, focusing on the basics and keeping it simple. Grieg's methods have allowed the group time to watch and correct their techniques. However we are all different so this doesn't mean that the perceived correct technique works for every individual.

The benefits of player centred coaching have been significant and it's great to see everybody improving each skill. The coaches have also given us belief to not fear failure but realise unless we fail we will not learn. This approach is exactly what the IOM team needs in order to develop further.

Looking forward, Greig will be challenging the National side on future trips away in the build up to the 2016 ICC tournament and the development team will also be challenged by playing county opposition in festivals.

In 2016 IOM cricket will be setting up u11, u13 and u15 age groups to strengthen the Development of Excellence programme.

The pathways are desperately needed to help cricket grow on the IOM and produce a stronger national side in the future.

Greig is continually working hard to develop ways to challenge everybody and I am looking forward to seeing what he has in store for us over the next few months and into the future.


Phil Littlejohns