Skills Blast brings over 70 young people to Edgbaston Stadium in celebration of community and sport

The outfield of the iconic Edgbaston Stadium was buzzing with energy and enthusiasm as more than 70 children took part in the Warwickshire Cricket Foundation’s Skills Blast, a fun filled day celebrating cricket and community spirit.

Hosted by the Warwickshire Cricket Foundation, the event offered young players from across the county a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play on the same ground as their cricketing heroes.

With a mix of coaching drills, games, and team-building activities, Skills Blast was about more than just cricket, it was about building confidence, creating memories, and making new friends.

Sim, Community Participation Officer and event lead, said: “At this year’s Skills Blast, it was wonderful to see the children thoroughly enjoying themselves and engaging with new peers in their groups."

The event also received high praise from Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, who acknowledged the Foundation’s role in promoting inclusion and increasing opportunities for young people across the region.

"With iconic clubs and world class venues, the West Midlands is a great place to work in the sports sector. Events like the Skills Blast can inspire young people from every background to get active and realise their dream of a career alongside elite athletes and sports professionals. With the guidance of dedicated sports coaches and by working with skills providers we can make sure people that want to work in sports have the skills they need to succeed – unlocking jobs and forging careers within this exciting and thriving sector."

While the spotlight was firmly on fun for the kids, the day also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the volunteers, whose support was essential to the event’s success.

Sam Wyles, Workforce Development Manager, said: "The Skills Blast was a successful day, with 60–70 young children given the opportunity to play on the outfield. Coaching was delivered by our full-time staff, supported by newly qualified volunteer coaches."

"The idea with the coaching was for our full-time staff to deliver the first couple of sessions and then the newly qualified coaches would take a lead on the last couple of sessions under the supervision of our staff."

"The volunteers engaged well with the children and delivered some quality fun safe and engaging sessions across the morning."

If you’ve been inspired and want to get involved as a participant or a volunteer, visit warwickshirecricketfoundation.org to find out more.