The Vanuatu Cricket Ambassador Program continues to strengthen grassroots cricket development in Vanuatu, with its latest training successfully adding 30 new coaches across Port Vila, Tanna, and Santo. This ongoing initiative focuses on expanding the cricket ambassador network in schools and decentralizing coaching opportunities to ensure greater reach across the country.
Expanding the Coaching Network
With a 60/40 gender split in favor of men, participants took part in structured training under the ICC Criiio Facilitators and ICC Foundation Coaching framework. The sessions were led by experienced cricket educators:
Daniel Naies (Lenakel, Tanna)
Jonas Piloe (South Santo)
Jamal Vira (Port Vila)
Immediate Impact in Local Competitions
The newly trained ambassadors are already making an impact, actively contributing to three key youth competitions so far:
SEPSA Games (Port Vila)
Tanna U10 Competition
South Santo U10 Competition
Jamal Vira, Operations Manager and program facilitator, highlighted the importance of investing in grassroots coaching:
"Developing good people who facilitate coaching to juniors is such a key factor to sport in Vanuatu and for cricket. With the VCA pushing this program again, it’s a fantastic opportunity for new and old participants of our coaching programs to reignite their interest and perhaps one day develop the next Selina Solman, Andrew Mansale, or Nalin Nipiko."
Community and Educational Support
The program’s success is made possible through the continued support of Shefa, Tafea, and Sanma education departments, which have allowed teachers to participate, along with the dedication of local communities in Port Vila, Tanna, and South Santo. Additionally, Interchange Ltd is a key sponsor and plays a vital role in supporting the rollout of this program. As part of this commitment, Interchange Ltd and Vanuatu Cricket aim to equip these ambassadors with uniforms and proper equipment in the very near future, ensuring that both our youth and ambassadors have the resources they need to succeed.
As the Vanuatu Cricket Ambassador Program continues to grow, it remains a key driver in strengthening the future of cricket in Vanuatu, ensuring young players have access to quality coaching and mentorship.
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