Sussex Cricket Foundation Hosts Inspiring Table Cricket Festivals

The Sussex Cricket Foundation recently concluded a series of three Table Cricket Festivals at The 1st Central County Ground in Hove, providing opportunities for young people with disabilities to experience the sport in an inclusive and accessible format. The festivals, held last month, welcomed 120 participants from 18 teams representing 12 Special Educational Needs and Additional Learning Needs (SEND/ALN) schools across Sussex.

What is Table Cricket?

Table Cricket is an adapted version of cricket designed to be inclusive for young people with disabilities. Played on a table tennis table, the game combines strategy, skill, and teamwork. Bowlers use a ramp to deliver the ball towards a batter, who aims to hit it into scoring zones while avoiding fielders positioned around the table.

Festival Structure and Participation

Each festival day was carefully structured to accommodate participants with varying levels of support needs. Schools were grouped to ensure players could compete alongside peers with similar requirements, fostering an environment of enjoyment and success. The first two days focused on participants with neurodivergent conditions and additional learning needs, while the third day catered primarily to young people with physical disabilities who require more complex support.

Special Guest and Young Leaders

The festivals received a special visit from Paul Farbrace, Director of Cricket and Head Coach of the Sussex Men’s team. Five young leaders also contributed to the smooth running of the events, gaining valuable experience in umpiring and scoring, and developing their leadership skills alongside the Foundation’s community coaching team.

Illuminated Table Cricket and Regional Finals

This year’s festivals featured the first-ever use of an illuminated Table Cricket table, enhancing the sensory experience and interactivity for participants. Following the competition, Shoreham Academy, Manor Green College, and The Angmering School (Lavinia Norfolk Centre) secured their places in the Lord’s Taverners Regional Finals, which will be held in March at the K2 Leisure Centre in Crawley.

Further Information

For more information about the Sussex Cricket Foundation’s Disability Cricket programmes and school provisions for the SEND and ALN sector, please contact disabilitycricket@sussexcricket.co.uk or visit their website.