January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
Smith named Academy director
Smith, whose brother Clay is captain of the senior national team, will have responsibility for co-ordinating youth development from under-19 level down.
He will take up the post in April with a mandate to improve the level of coaching and the amount of cricket played in schools, establish thriving junior leagues and oversee national development squads at every age group.
It is hoped he will produce a steady stream of players for future national squads — developing players with professional attitudes as well as sound cricket skills.
The emphasis will also be on creating opportunities for young players to broaden their experience by playing overseas and winning cricket scholarships to schools and universities in the U.K.
Smith will leave his post as principal at Paget Primary School to take up the role.
His appointment signals the Bermuda Cricket Board’s intention to ensure the entire island benefits from the massive investment in the sport, including $11million from the Bermuda government, that followed World Cup qualification.
Smith, the first man to score 1,000 runs in Cup Match, said his role was to make sure the 2007 World Cup was not a “one shot deal”.
He will play a major part in helping the Bermuda Cricket Board achieve its aim of developing a winning team in the ICC Trophy in 2009 and beyond.
Another part of his job is to “increase the enjoyment and participation of all those in the game.”
“I want to be driving to work and see youngsters on their way to school with their cricket bats,” he added.
“Improving cricket at the grass roots level i.e. youth involvement at the clubs, and schools will be vital.
“Our vision is to positively impact participation levels, effect player development, and implement quality high performance programmes…
“Without question, the ensuing years will be the most critical in the cricketing history of our country. It is vital that, with the appropriate resources in place, that we structure and sustain vibrant programmes that ensure the future well being of this great game.”
Reginald Pearman, president of the BCB added: “We are very pleased to be able to secure a candidate of Wendell's experience and calibre.
“Wendell brings to the BCB a wealth of cricketing knowledge, administrative excellence and he obviously brings an abundance of talent and wisdom regarding the school system and how best to implement an enhanced and comprehensive schools ‘cricket programme.”[[In-content Ad]]
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