Email This Article To Someone!

With a couple of theoretical sessions under their belts the newly formed Zurich women's club enjoyed their first session in the indoor facilities of Hottingen school. The sessions are being coached by the enthusiastic Bandula Gunawansa, who is attending the latest ECB Level 1 coaching course in Switzerland together with 10 other prospective coaches.

Former European Development Officer Adam Cole and David Gelling, who ran the first Level 1 course in Switzerland last November/December, flew in this month and their passion has clearly rubbed off on the new coaches who are now eager to pass on their new knowledge to the youngsters and the women now wanting to take part in this sport that for too long has been so foreign to Switzerland.

Bandula Gunawansa was glad to be able to draw on the willingness of half a dozen Royal Zurich CC members to assist him. The participating women, who almost form a full team, finished their 2-hour training enthusing over how enjoyable it had been and how keen they were to swell their numbers by inviting others to the Friday evening sessions. Indeed, already the basics of bowling and batting have been grasped and there is clearly a good deal of natural talent among the group.

The first match is already in the planning stages. At the AGM of the Royals on April 2nd the idea of a friendly match with mixed teams met with great approval, and a wish to incorporate some of the budding 14- and 15-year-olds from the Zurich region was likewise commended. It is to be hoped that other Swiss clubs will follow suit and encourage both women and youngsters to join this team sport which has so much to offer.