Kids taking part in the ASB Sports Centre school holiday programme have been learning from the best – with the whole
Wellington Firebirds team dropping in to share their top tips and tricks.
Twelve year-old Edward Prestwood-Smith was able to get some batting practice with the Wellington Firebirds during
Tuesday’s session. “They’re very encouraging; they bowl nicely and don’t go to hard on us,” he reported.
Craig Hutchings, Facility Manager for ASB Sports Centre says his team works hard to ensure that kids are inspired to get
involved with sports. “Having famous players dropping in to meet the kids is such a highlight of the programmes we
provide,” said Hutchings. “The kids get such a boost from meeting their sporting heroes. We love working alongside
Wellington’s top teams to create those connections, and seeing the buzz it gives the kids.”
“We love being involved – it gives us a chance to give back to the community of Wellington,” said the Firebirds strike
bowler, Brent Arnel. “Just being here and having some fun with the kids is great. We might get some who think ‘Oh, I
enjoyed that!’ and start thinking about getting involved in cricket.”
The ASB Sports Centre holiday programme has also welcomed players from the Wellington Phoenix and the Haier Pulse. ASB
Sports Centre has proved to be a great facility for the community – and not just during the school holidays. While the
school holiday programmes have proved popular, kids will have the chance to meet more of their sporting heroes. After
school programmes kick off during term one, with a wide range of offerings; while adult leagues are also starting in the
evenings.
Grant Elliott shares catching tips at the ASB Sports Centre school holiday programme
ENDS