PLAYERS
HANDBOOK
2017
PLAYERS HANDBOOK 2016/17
Contents
INTRODUCTION FROM THE MANAGING DIRECTOR
Page 2
PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME
Page 3
WELFARE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN LANCASHIRE CRICKET
Page 5
MATCH AND GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Page 9
CONTACT NUMBERS
Page 12
INTRODUCTION
It gives me great please to provide my first introduction to the 2017 LCB Player Performance
Handbook. Throughout my time working in various roles across the County, I have understood
the importance of ensuring we have a robust player pathway in place, ensuring our talented
players have the best opportunities to develop.
The work of our Education Department and Clubs and Leagues Department ensures we have a
broad base of participation. It is from this broad base of participation that we can identify our
players who have the potential to develop and play at the highest level in a winning
environment. We identify our players through a variety of ways including district cricket, area
and regional cricket and inter league cricket.
Having gone through this talent identification, those of you who have now been selected to
represent the County are following in the footsteps of numerous players, both male and female
who have gone on to play professionally at County or Test level.
The information in this document is to help you and your parents/guardians throughout what I
am sure will be a successful and enjoyable season for you.
I would like to thank the Coaches and Managers for all their hard work and all the parents,
guardians and friends for all their support throughout the season.
Please remember that you continue you represent your schools and clubs whilst playing for the
Red Rose, all of whom have supported you to get to this level.
It takes a certain type of character to achieve your ambitions. To be successful, you need to be
disciplined and focused with a desire to be the best. All of these attributes come with being a
successful cricketer.
By you displaying these, I sincerely wish you all the best for the season.
Bobby Denning
Managing Director
LCB PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME
The LCB PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME, developed from the previous Levels of
Excellence Scheme, is managed through the LCB Development of Excellence Committee.
It is also fully supported by Lancashire County Cricket Club.
The LCB are responsible for the delivery of the Performance Programme in partnership
with the Lancashire Schools Cricket Association who provides support with Team
Managers in the Boys U10-U15 age groups.
The LCB brand this programme as “Developing the individual players skills in a winning
environment.”
The original scheme was introduced twelve years ago and is unique in its concept within
the structure of the England and Wales Cricket Board. Its aim is to ensure that all those
involved with developing young players within Lancashire through to the County Cricket
Club communicate effectively with each other and that Lancashire as a county gets the
very best from its youngsters. This can only be beneficial to those who play for the
County at a young age and who have aspirations to move through to reach Academy
status and then to go on and play at the highest level possible.
There are three Performance levels which begin at U10 for boys and U11 for girls.
LEVEL 1
Development Team representation
LEVEL 2
County Main Team representation
At the end of each County season all players in the above two performance categories
will be considered for inclusion in the County Squad training to take place in the
following winter/spring. Those selected will be offered group coaching sessions.
In addition some players identified from the above two performance categories will
undertake specialist skill set sessions as arranged by the LCB Performance Section.
LEVEL 3
Inclusion in the LCB Emerging Player Programme (EPP)
This status will only apply to the most talented players and such a player will have
performed extremely well with a high level of performance over a period of time. This
programme applies to players 14 to 18 for boys and 13 to 19 for girls. This offers a
structured coaching programme appropriate to a player’s age and ability. Guidance on
an appropriate match and practice programme will help to underpin the ideals of the
Performance scheme and the recording of performances.
The Level 3 process will also provide the County Club with the opportunity of reviewing
players for selection to the Lancashire CCC Academy.
The EPP now has 3 sections:
EPP Excellence- includes boys from minor counties and Lancashire.
EPP Boys – mainly boys from 13-15 years old from Lancashire.
EPP Girls – mainly girls from 13-18 from Lancashire and links into the Thunder
Development Centre.
The whole process is designed to improve talent identification, the coaching of the best
players, and to ensure good communication between Lancashire, the young cricketer
and parents/guardians.
All players within the Performance Programme will complete the appropriate
Performance Programme registration form and will be expected to conform to the high
standards of the LCB and Lancashire County Cricket Club. There is a clear Code of
Conduct and Behaviour outlined later in this booklet, which all players will be expected
to adhere to.
It is vital all players do not lose sight of the importance of a full education. Everyone will
be encouraged to take a positive approach to his or her education and to follow courses
appropriate to careers outside cricket. It is hoped schools will wish to work closely with
the scheme to identify and overcome any potential problems in this area.
MEDICAL PROCEDURE FOR INJURIES
All Level 1 players will receive assistance with physiotherapy treatment in a partnership
between LCB and David Roberts Physiotherapy.
Any such player who gets injured should report the injury to their County Age Group
coach. The coach will then inform the LCB Performance Manager, LCCC Academy
Director or Women and Girls CDO. David Roberts Physiotherapy will then make
provision for the player to be assessed at one of their clinics.
The LCB will subsidise the cost for the initial assessment and a further three treatments
if required by 50% of the total cost. Any further treatment will be paid for by the
player/parents.
The status of the player’s injury history will be kept on a central database with David
Roberts Physiotherapy and the LCB.
WELFARE OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN CRICKET
1. POLICY STATEMENT
The Lancashire Cricket Board is committed to ensuring that all young people who
represent the County have a safe and positive experience. The Board is committed to
developing and implementing policies and procedures that ensure that everyone knows,
understands and accepts their responsibilities in relation to a duty of care for young
people.
2. CODE OF CONDUCT FOR ADULTS
To this end all those Adults, Team Managers, Coaches etc. involved in the Performance
Scheme will subscribe to this CODE OF CONDUCT, which emphasises that each individual
will: Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person within the context of cricket.
Treat everyone equally and not to discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, religion,
race, sexual orientation or disability.
Not allow unchallenged any form of discrimination.
Place the well-being and safety of the young cricketer above the development of
performance.
Attempt to develop an appropriate working relationship with young cricketers based on
mutual trust and respect.
Ensure physical contact is appropriate and necessary and is carried out within
recommended guidelines.
Always work in an open environment (e.g. avoid private or unobserved situations and
encourage an open environment).
Not engage in any form of sexually related contact with a young player. This is strictly
forbidden as is sexual innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms.
Know and understand the ECB Welfare of Young People Policy and Procedures.
Respect young people’s opinions when making decisions about their participation in
cricket.
Inform players and parents of the requirements of cricket.
To be aware of and report any conflict of interest as soon as it becomes apparent,
Display high standards of language, manner, punctuality, preparation and presentation.
Not smoke, drink or use banned substances whilst actively working with young people.
This reflects a negative image and could compromise the safety of young people.
Not give young people alcohol when they are under the care of the County Board.
Will hold relevant qualifications and insurance cover.
Ensure activities are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the
individual.
Promote the positive aspects of cricket e.g. fair play and the Spirit of Cricket
Display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
Follow ECB guidelines set out in the Welfare of Young People Policy and any other
relevant guidelines issued.
Ensure appropriate training is attended to keep up to date.
Report any concerns following reporting procedures laid down by the LCB.
The full Code of Conduct can be found within the ECB Policy Document “Safe Hands”.
3. PLAYER INFORMATION
One of the demands of the ECB Policy is for Counties to maintain detailed up-to-date
information about young players involved in representative cricket. The Player
Performance Scheme is the ideal vehicle to use to carry out this information gathering.
We are grateful for the support of parents and players in returning the forms including
the giving of permissions. It is important that any changes to personal details or
permissions are sent through to the LCB Performance Section as soon as possible.
4. PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO
Permission with regard to photography and video is included in the registration process
of the Performance Scheme. Notwithstanding this it is important that parents seek
permission from the Manager or Coach at any match if they wish to take pictures. If
anyone observes any individual taking pictures, who is not known, then they should
report this to an Official, Team Manager or Coach.
5. ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
As part of the concerns over the Welfare of Young Cricketers the LCB will not accept or
condone bullying and will address all forms of bullying. The competitive nature of
cricket can create or support an environment for the bully, who could be:
- a parent who pushes too hard
- a Coach with a ‘win at all costs’ approach
- a young player who intimidates others
- an Official who places undue pressure on a player.
Bullying can be verbal, physical, written or emotional.
It is vital that if there any concerns with regard to this issue that we are made aware of
the problem as soon as possible. We will be committed to resolving the matter to
everyone’s satisfaction.
6. TRANSPORT
Wherever practicable it will be the responsibility of parents to arrange transport to
home and away fixtures.
There may be situations where the LCB will arrange for transport especially to away
grounds. If this is the case we will only use properly authorised companies to undertake
these journeys. Players/parents will be informed of these arrangements in advance.
7. UMPIRES/SCORERS
All Umpires and Scorers officially appointed to stand in LCB matches will have been
through the Enhanced Check made by the Criminal Record Bureau at the request of the
English Cricket Board.
8. INSTRUCTIONS RE: FIXTURES
All players where practicable will receive detailed information with regard to fixtures
with ground directions, reporting times and hours of play. This Handbook contains a list
of contact telephone numbers in case of any problems. If any fixture necessitates an
overnight stay, then players will be provided with details about the accommodation and
what will be required. They will be reminded about what will be paid for by the LCB and
what they will be responsible for.
9. TOURS/FESTIVALS
Where the stay away from home will be longer than just overnight, parents and players
will be provided with a full itinerary beforehand to indicate where the team will be
staying and where matches will be played. Although Team Managers will have a list of
contact names/numbers from the central Database it will be helpful to provide details of
where parents/friends are staying along with appropriate contact numbers including
mobiles for the duration of the Tour or Festival.
Where possible, Team Managers will meet with players/parents to emphasise the issues
involved with the particular Festival or Tour, either before the actual departure or on
the first night at the hotel or college.
10. YOUNG PLAYERS BOWLING WORKLOADS
In the case of young pace bowlers it is recommended that a young player along with
their County Age Group coach tries to implement a weekly workload programme. The
monitoring system works on a 7-4-2 basis.
Within a period of 7 days a young pace bowler should try not to bowl on more than 4
days and not on more than 2 days consecutive.
The LCB understands that at certain times during the season it is difficult to implement
this process e.g. during festival weeks. However it is recommended good practice in the
prevention of injuries in young fast bowlers.
MATCH INSTRUCTIONS
1. HOME FIXTURES
For Home fixtures players will be given specific information about the time to report to
the ground. This will usually be between 60 and 90 minutes prior to the start time. If a
player has any fitness problems after notification of selection then they must contact
the relevant Team Manager or Coach as soon as possible. A full list of telephone
numbers can be found later in this Booklet.
It is essential all players make sure they are aware of the hours of play for each game
because these can vary. Never presume the next game will have the same start time as
the last.
If any player is late arriving at a ground then they may find the Team Manager/Coach
has amended the selection and removed them from the team.
2. DRESSING ROOM
This is a privileged place for players and designated officials only. Under no
circumstances should parents enter the Dressing Room other than at the invitation of
the Team Manager or Coach. The only persons permitted to enter Dressing Rooms,
other than players, and designated officials i.e. Team Manager, Selector, Coach, will be
the LCB Director and Performance Manager. The “Dressing Room” also extends to the
area outside which should be for players and officials only. At certain grounds there may
be properly appointed and qualified Dressing Room Attendants/Physiotherapists in
attendance.
MOBILE PHONES must be switched off on arrival in the Dressing Room and for the
duration of matches.
3. AWAY FIXTURES
Hotel Accommodation (other than for TOURS / FESTIVALS).
Certain fixtures will necessitate hotel accommodation. Reservations will include
breakfast. All other items of expenditure, including telephone calls, are individual
player’s personal responsibility and must be settled on check out.
Travel
Some journeys will be made by coach. Players will be informed of the departure times
and/or pick up points, and should ensure they allow plenty of time to be at the
appointed place as indicated. No independent arrangements will be allowed unless by
prior arrangement with the Team Manager.
In the majority of cases travel to home and away matches will be by car. The LCB is
extremely grateful for the assistance in travel arrangements provided by parents,
friends, etc. However, the Board does not accept any liability in respect of insurance
claims or damages incurred during the transportation of players to an LCB match.
4. MEALS
All players will be provided with lunch and/or tea depending on the duration of the
matches according to age groups. If players are based in a hotel then a small allowance
towards an evening meal will be made. Breakfast will be provided at the hotel.
5. DRESS
All players are expected to wear the appropriate LCB Kit for all county fixtures. This can
be obtained on line or direct at the Kukri Shop at Emirates Old Trafford. It has been a
tradition for many years with LSCA Boys teams that the age groups from Under 10 to 14
wear blazers with a badge and tie. The badges and ties can be obtained from the age
group Managers. Under 15, 16, 17 and Under 19 teams should arrive in LCB track suit
and training wear UNLESS INFORMED OTHERWISE. All girls squads should arrive to
games in LCB Kukri kit (tracksuit and white training top).
Any alteration in the dress code will be down to Team Managers according to
circumstances.
For preparation at matches players are expected to wear the Kukri training kit i.e. white
Kukri LCB training top, LCB Kukri shorts or LCB Kukri tracksuit. Whilst involved in playing
players should wear the LCB Kukri playing shirts and LCB sleeveless tops. Please note
that the LCB playing shirts and sleeveless tops should not be worn other than when
representing the LCB.
6. CODE OF BEHAVIOUR
It is a very clear expectation that all players conduct themselves appropriately in their
cricket at whatever level it is played. A separate Discipline Committee of the Player
Performance Scheme would consider serious cases of indiscipline and appropriate
action, including removal from the Programme could be taken.
All players will be expected to behave in a manner which is considered to be
appropriate, and for which Lancashire teams over the years have become well known.
Umpires decisions must be accepted at all times without question. All instructions and
requests made by Team Managers / Coaches must be followed.
The Code of Behaviour will apply to all matches played within the LCB Player
Performance Scheme, but all players will be expected to maintain these high standards
in the entire cricket they play at whatever level. Misconduct at any level from school to
representative level will be the subject of investigation and could result in disciplinary
measures being taken.
The responsibility for implementing this Code of Behaviour will be in the hands of the
Team Manager, Coach and in some cases, the Captain. All matters will be dealt with
promptly and quickly. All players will be expected to conduct themselves in a manner for
which Lancashire cricket has become well regarded in all cricketing circles.
IN ALL WAYS, AND AT ALL TIMES, PLAYERS WILL BE EXPECTED
TO BEHAVE TO THE STANDARDS OF LANCASHIRE CRICKET.
8. EDUCATION
It is important that all players still in full time education maintain all the expectations
made of them by their school/college and identified in any specific targets in reports and
assessments. This commitment is vitally important for career prospects outside cricket.
Many players are reliant upon permission from school being granted to play in fixtures in
term time. Individuals will not be selected if the school/college involved withdraws
permission.
CONTACT NUMBERS
LCB MANAGING DIRECTOR
Bobby Denning 0161 868 6841 or 07764922840 Email [email protected]
LCCC ACADEMY DIRECTOR
Gary Yates 07768 558171 Email: [email protected]
LCB PERFORMANCE MANAGER
Stephen Titchard 0161 868 6851 or 07786 991938 Email: [email protected]
LCB WOMEN & GIRLS CRICKET DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Jenny Barden 07713287989 Email: [email protected]
LCB BUSINESS SUPPORT ADMINISTRATOR (Fixtures and Grounds)
Anna Rabbitt 0161 868 6865 Email: [email protected]
TEAM MANAGERS / COACHES- Boys Teams
LCB (FEDERATION) U19
David Moss (Manager) 0161 976 2441 Email: [email protected]
Rudra Singh (Coach) 07764 922841 Email: [email protected]
LCB U17
Bob Dearden (Manager) 07816 039168 Email: [email protected]
Gary Yates (Coach) as above
LCB U16
Paul Bryson (Coach) 07764 922839 Email: [email protected]
James Cutt (Assistant Coach) 075955 20536 Email: [email protected]
LCB U15
Andy Kennedy (Manager) 07743 967512 Email: [email protected]
Stephen Titchard (Coach) 07786 991938 Email: [email protected]
Paul Green (Development) 07889 167048 Email: [email protected]
Mick Fletcher (Development Manager) 0781311961 Email: [email protected]
LCB U14
Dave Reddy (Manager) 075955 20319 Email: [email protected]
Nathan Wood (Coach) 07742 126939 Email: [email protected]
Tim McKiernan (Development) 07713 287992 Email: [email protected]
Peter Sixsmith (Development Manager) 07816913446 Email:[email protected]
LCB U13
Shaun Anders (Coach) 07985354319 Email: [email protected]
John Williams (Manager) 07767 441978 Email: [email protected]
Mark Cookson (Development Coach) 07894584562 Email: [email protected]
LCB U12
Dominic Bennett (Manager) 07525790894 Email [email protected]
Rob Tipping (Coach) 0794584563 Email: [email protected]
Steve Pemberton (Development) 07889 167050 Email: [email protected] Greg
Clayton(Development Manager) 07521948594 Email:[email protected]
LCB U11
Colin Foster (Manager) Email: [email protected]
Dave Leighton (Coach) 07785722231 Email: [email protected]
Danny Gilbert (Development) 07764 922836 Email:[email protected]
Mike Buckley (Development Manager) 07710 421231 Email: [email protected]
LCB U10
Granville Thompson (Manager) 07866740523 Email: [email protected]
Steve Critchley (Coach) 07807037046 Email: [email protected]
Luke Pomfret (Assistant Coach) 07711 579694 Email:[email protected]
LCB GIRLS TEAMS
LCB Women
Dan Atkinson (Coach) 07590474328 Email: [email protected]
2nd X1
Liam Castella (Coach) Email: [email protected]
LCB U17
Neil Redford (Coach) 07736471278 Email: [email protected]
Will Threlkeld (Assistant Coach) 07865544455 Email: [email protected]
LCB U15
Jen Barden (Coach) 07713287989 Email: [email protected]
LCB U13
Dave Hudson (Coach) 07791100501 Email: [email protected]
Michael Brooks (Development) 07412495494 Email: [email protected]
LCB U11
Abi Bates (Coach) 07879473045 Email: [email protected]
Liam Mason (Assistant Coach) 07913418609 Email: [email protected]
LANCASHIRE CRICKET BOARD
Bob Hinchliffe (Chairman)
LANCASHIRE SCHOOLS CRICKET ASSOCIATION
Joint Secretaries: John Williams as above
Nigel Warne 07773518690 Email: [email protected]
COUNTY WELFARE OFFICERS
MIKE BUCKLEY 07710 421231
[email protected]