Photo © ECC

With a wide range of players coming together from all over Europe, it was clear that the academy was an ambitious project. However from the moment we arrived in Spain it was obvious that the ECC Academy was going to turn out to be extremely successful and worthwhile. Even though our first session together involved Simon Shephard subjecting all the players to rigorous fitness testing, everyone gave it their all, and got behind their counterparts, some of whom they had only known for less than a day.

Once in the nets however, all were keen to impress both the coaches and their fellow players. And this was duly done, as the standard shown in the nets was extremely high, especially given the immensely hot conditions.

After this draining first day, we were to move on into a more intense coaching programme concentrating on our particular fields (i.e. bowling or batting). Yet again this was tough both physically and mentally, but what was obvious was that the players were beginning to form a bond that no one could have imagined.

The first part flew by even though we were getting up at unearthly hours of the day. The net sessions were thorough and intense but extremely useful and everyone gave 100% at all times.

Although absolutely drained, the group moved on to Javea where we were to coach local children, which was a challenge as some of them spoke absolutely no English. However this was not a problem and the two sessions were fun for both the kids and the academy.

The transition of the coaches took place smoothly and it was a shame that Hendo, Coxy and Brian had to leave, but Stan and Coley proved to be just as good as their predecessors.

Once we returned to Alfaz for the second week, the weather turned and our first game was washed out. However the other two, although somewhat manufactured in the make up of the sides, were immensely enjoyable, and gave everyone the chance to put into practice what they had learnt in the nets. The final game which one team won by losing less wickets, due to a tied score, was one of the most tense experiences ever, and I'm sure Mr Bumke will regret being bowled by that last ball for the rest of his life.

With such new friendships forged, it seemed sad that we would all go our separate ways at the end of the academy, and it would be great if something similar could be organised again involving the exact same personnel in the future.