Proteas legend Jonty Rhodes inspiring cricket youth
Proteas legend Jonty Rhodes has lent his star power to the support of the Cape Town-based Cricket School of Excellence.
Jonty Rhodes has been passionate about the game of cricket for as long as he can remember, and the fielding extraordinaire is also committed to creating a lasting legacy in the game in South Africa and abroad.
“I still have the same energy and passion for the game as I always have,” says Rhodes. “And a big part of this is creating memories and trying to play a role in instilling this passion into the next generation of players.”
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JONTY RHODES WAS ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR PROTEAS PLAYERS OF ALL TIME
The 54-year-old has been a big fan and supporter of the Cape Town-based Cricket School of Excellence powered by Ryan Maron. The CSE has had a huge influence in cricket across all ages, genders and skill levels and are combining to celebrate the cricket school’s 25th anniversary.
“Ryan and I go way back and I’m so proud of what he’s done in changing lives through the game of cricket. He’s been pouring out his knowledge for 25 years and I really want him to take some great pride in this milestone,” adds Rhodes.
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Maron has a wealth of expertise in the game as a former professional player himself before going on to coach internationally with the likes of West Indies and Afghanistan.
“It’s been an adventure for sure but I can say, it’s been rewarding especially seeing so many players still involved at club level and even internationally. Just the other day, David Bedingham was capped by the Proteas,” says Maron.
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Bedingham is just one of a host of players who have made it to the international scene after starting out as a youngster enjoying the game in one of Ryan Maron’s cricket groups.
“But far more than just these international stars, we’ve had hundreds of kids come through the CSE to learn about the sport and life. And that’s arguably the highlight for me.”
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CRICKET OUTREACH
Another mutual highlight for Rhodes and Maron is the CSE’s Adopt A School programme which is being powered by Tickmill, an award-winning, multi-regulated Forex and CFD provider. The programme helps grow the game of cricket in Khayelitsha in a fun and safe environment with highly-trained coaches from the CSE on board to oversee the
“We are fortunate to have great sponsors and partners join forces to help promote the game in Khayelitsha. Tickmill have gone above and beyond to make sure two schools are well looked after. It’s been a real passion project and we look forward to a long partnership for this iniaitive,” says Maron.
15 of these Adopt A School players are currently enjoying the January Holiday Clinic put on by the CSE.
The 25th anniversary celebration concludes on Friday, 12 January at the Gary Kirsten Oval in Claremont. The week-long cricket clinic has seen nearly 200 children participate in various cricketing skills courses. Jonty Rhodes will be in attendance to showcase some of his cricket skills and to help coach the participants.
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