CWI launches second round of foundational training, in Leeward Islands and St. Vincent & The Grenadines

In alignment with what it identifies as its “strategic approach” of cultivating a robust, high-caliber coaching network across the region, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has resumed its second cycle of  Foundation Level & Refreshers Cricket Coaching Course in the Leeward Islands and St. Vincent. It aims to prepare coaches for the upcoming reopening of primary schools and community-based grassroots cricket programs, as outlined by a CWI press release.

The coaching sessions began on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua & Barbuda. Subsequent sessions are scheduled across various territories: October 5 in Montserrat, October 7 in the British and US Virgin Islands, October 10 in St. Maarten and Anguilla, with the final session set for October 30 in St. Vincent.

Highlighting the significance of these ongoing coaching development efforts, Miles Bascombe, Director of Cricket at CWI, emphasized the organization’s dedication to elevating coaching standards and enhancing cricket infrastructure throughout the Caribbean.

He stated, “The continuation of the Foundation Level and Refresher Coaching Courses reflects CWI’s strong commitment to developing high-quality coaching talent and strengthening cricketing infrastructure across the region.“

Bascombe further explained, “As we work closely with government and private sector partners to grow age-group cricket at both the school and community levels, investing in coaching education at this early stage is essential to building a solid foundation for the growth and future sustainability of the sport in the region.”

He added, “By equipping coaches with the right tools and knowledge, we are creating a more inclusive and sustainable cricket pathway. One that supports the resurgence of grassroots and mass participation cricket throughout the Caribbean.”

The development of youth cricket programs, such as the Republic Bank Limited (RBL) Five for Fun Cricket and the Girls Under-16/19 Territorial Cricket Hub initiatives, stands to benefit greatly from a well-trained cadre of foundation-level coaches in each territory. These programs are crucial in inspiring future generations of cricketers and fostering continuous growth at the grassroots level.

Leading the delivery of these coaching courses are Mr. Brendon Ramlal and Mr. Keshava Ramphal, both of whom possess Level 3 Coaching Certifications and bring extensive experience from their backgrounds in Trinidad & Tobago’s primary and secondary education systems. With over ten years of involvement in age-group cricket development and coaching, they offer a wealth of expertise in child protection and safeguarding, tactical understanding, physical literacy and fitness, session planning, and effective communication.

CWI reported that due to its commitment to the safety and well-being of young athletes, it has mandated that all course participants complete the online UNICEF Child Protection Course and participate in a virtual Cricket Safeguarding & Child Protection Workshop prior to commencing the coaching program. These prerequisites ensure that coaches are well-prepared to foster a secure and nurturing environment for player development.

Historically, said the organization, the Foundation Level and Refresher Courses have been successfully conducted across several Caribbean nations, including Dominica, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, Grenada (including Carriacou), Jamaica, and Barbados.

To date, more than 150 participants have benefited from these courses, which are designed to equip both current and aspiring coaches with vital skills and knowledge to nurture young talent and promote cricket’s growth from the grassroots upward.