Wilson Stuart School from Birmingham emerged victorious at the Lord’s Taverners 2017 National Table Cricket Finals at the home of cricket.
Hosted at the Nursery Pavilion at Lord’s, Wilson Stuart School claimed the championship – having won their regional heat in the West Midlands to qualify for the national final – by winning by 10 runs as they defended a total of 258.
It is vital that all young people, whatever their disability, are given the chance to compete within sport
Clara Govier
In its 19th year, the competition works with 30 county cricket boards and saw more than 300 schools catering for young people with severe physical disabilities from across the UK participate in competitive cricket. Nine schools from around the country represented their respective regions on finals day.
The game not only gives opportunities for competitive play and social integration, it also improves life-skills including self-confidence, independence and social skills. An enhanced role for the captain also allows for the development of leadership skills.
Radio 1 DJ Greg James, ambassador for the Lord’s Taverners, said: “Table Cricket at Lord’s with hundreds of kids enjoying themselves, it really doesn’t get any better than that. It was a competitive day with some close finishes, so big congratulations to Wilson Stuart School for their deserving win.”
The Lord’s Taverners Table Cricket programme, which is supported by Ford and the players of People’s Postcode Lottery, last year gave more than 3,000 young people with severe physical or learning disabilities the chance to compete and have fun, regardless of ability.
Clara Govier, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “We are delighted that our players are supporting the Lord’s Taverners through the Table Cricket programme. It is vital that all young people, whatever their disability, are given the chance to compete within sport. The Table Cricket competition affords such an opportunity and we are very proud that our players are able to support such a fantastic programme.”
The Table Cricket competition affords such an opportunity and we are very proud that our players are able to support such a fantastic programme
Clara Govier
Played on a table tennis table with side panels and sliding fielders, a ball launcher, weighted plastic ball and wooden bat, table cricket enables young people with severe physical and learning disabilities to enjoy cricket and represent their school on a competitive basis.
The Lord’s Taverners aim to enhance the lives of disadvantaged and disabled young people through sport and recreation. Its programmes create a wide range of opportunities to engage in sport and recreational activities in their communities.
