For Zak, cricket’s always been a favourite. As a child, he’d be playing at any opportunity, at home in Smethwick, or at the local park, with friends and family. But it was Chance to Shine’s free Street sessions that gave Zak, 20, a safe space to develop into the confident, assured individual he is today.
He started his Street cricket journey in Year 7 and has gone on to play for a local club, represent Smethwick at the National Street Finals, and begin professional coaching. “Cricket has helped me with my social skills,” explains Zak. “I’m confident talking with people, and a better person overall.”
His Chance to Shine coach Rashi, has always been a mentor and role model. “Street cricket’s all about wellbeing and looking after the kids,” said Rashmi. “It really helps keep young people on the straight and narrow.”
After some family issues, Street sessions gave Zak an avenue to switch off and enjoy himself.
“Chance to Shine sessions and Rashmi have really helped,” explains Zak. “Street gives me a space where I can go with a clear mind, not focus on that issue and have some time to myself.
“At the club we always make sure to keep each other in the loop, it’s like a massive extended family.
“We’ll always make sure everyone’s doing ok; Rashmi is like an uncle.”
It was Rashmi who saw Zak’s talent and encouraged him to make the next step and join West Bromwich Dartmouth CC, a local hardball club.
“I kept telling Zak he should be playing club cricket, that’s what Street cricket’s about – encouraging participants to progress as cricketers.
“If you see somebody and they want to play, you need to give them guidance.”
Now, Zak and Rashmi run coaching sessions together at West Bromwich Dartmouth, after Zak completed his beginner qualifications.
“I’ve learnt that you need the right mix to become a good coach. Hopefully I can get my other coaching badges, pick up more experience, and improve my knowledge of coaching.”
“Rashmi has taught me that you can’t be too strict with the kids, they need to be enjoying themselves.”
For Zak it’s rewarding to help children learn fundamental cricket skills, and he hopes to achieve more coaching qualifications going forward as he studies Sports Coaching and Development at Newman University.
“I want to carry on what I’m doing, get better at it, and get as high as possible with my coaching.”
