This summer has been an incredible one for the Derbyshire Wicketz programme, packed with free opportunities, exciting events, and unforgettable experiences for young people across the county.
Our Hubs This Summer
Wicketz is a year-round, free-to-attend cricket programme for young people aged 8+ in hard-to-reach areas, funded by the Lord’s Taverners. Alongside cricket, the programme provides wider opportunities that take a holistic approach to improving the lives of young people.
Derby Girls’ Hub
Held on Tuesday evenings throughout the winter at Landau Forte College, the girls’ hub makes use of the college’s indoor sports hall and net facilities. In summer, sessions moved to the County Ground outfield — just a short walk away — inspiring participants and welcoming new faces from surrounding areas.
Derby Mixed Hub
Our most popular hub runs at Bemrose School on Friday evenings. During the winter, participants enjoy the indoor facilities, before moving outdoors to the school’s MUGA once the weather improves. This summer, when the school closed, a new partnership with Rosehill Methodist Cricket Club offered participants a smooth transition from community-based sessions to a club environment — warmly welcomed by both parents and participants.
Chesterfield Hub
Mary Swanwick Primary School hosts our hub in the north of the county, giving local young people the opportunity to experience Wicketz closer to home. We have a fantastic relationship with local Schools who have supported the programme dramatically.
Exciting Opportunities
Wicketz goes beyond weekly sessions, with festivals, special events, and residentials providing money can’t buy opportunities for participants.
Festival Fun at Queen’s Park
Our Chesterfield hub enjoyed a festival day at Queen’s Park — home of Chesterfield Cricket Club. Partnering with Chesterfield FC Community Trust and The Therapy & Lifestyle Clinic, participants rotated through a carousel of activities across the park, cricket outfield, pavilion, and astro pitches, before sharing lunch together.
Guard of Honour at Derbyshire CCC
As a reward for their commitment, Wicketz participants formed the guard of honour for the Derbyshire vs Essex one-day fixture at the County Ground which doubled up with the Family Fun Day. They also had the chance to play cricket on the outfield during the interval — Participants and their families had a fantastic day.
Summer Residentials
Residential trips remain a highlight of the Wicketz programme, offering participants the chance to travel, stay away from home, and take part in new activities free of charge.
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- Girls’ Residential at Repton School
Over three days in August, four girls from Derby and Chesterfield joined forces with the Luton Wicketz hub at Repton School. With round-robin cricket tournaments and lifestyle workshops, the trip provided both sporting and personal growth — and forged strong bonds between teammates. - Boys’ Residential at Ampleforth College
Six boys from Derby and Chesterfield travelled to North Yorkshire, where they were paired with the Glasgow Wicketz hub. The group enjoyed competitive cricket, reaching the semi-finals of the final tournament day. A standout moment came from a Chesterfield participant who stepped up to deliver a cricket session for the entire residential cohort — a hugely proud achievement for everyone involved.
- Girls’ Residential at Repton School
Looking Ahead
From weekly sessions and local festivals to national residentials, Summer 2025 has put Derbyshire’s Wicketz programme in the spotlight. With new opportunities on the horizon, the programme continues to inspire, empower, and connect young people through the power of cricket.
For more information about our Wicketz Programme click HERE or contact mitchell.adlington@dcfcricket.com
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