The Valentine Eleebana In2Cricket Program
 

The VECC commenced its committment to junior development via the Milo program in October 2004.

Recognising the club need a strong junior base for survival the program was commenced by the VEJCC coach David Jackson. In the first season
The club had 32 boys complete the 10 week Milo program.

With ages ranging from 5-7 all players enjoyed a fun atmosphere whilst learning the basics of cricket.

The program was conducted at the Valentine Eleebana Rugby League Ground at Croudace Bay between October and December.
The culmination of that first season saw the players represent the club on the SCG during the tea break during the Australia v Pakistan test match.
All boys enjoyed the experience and to this day that event is mentioned, after all there are not to many dads out there who can claim they have played on
the SCG.

Over the next three seasons the Milo program has grown at a significant rate. The program itself has essentially stayed the same
however in 2005 the VECC were very fortunate to gain the services of an assistant coordinator in Kyle James. Kyle although only 15 at the time demonstrated maturity well above his years and gained the trust and respect of junior players.

By 2007 54 players were registered to play Milo and the club moved form its original ground at Croudace Bay to take up its new home at the VECC training complex at Valentine Public School. During this time the VECC committee recognised the need to restrict numbers of children attending the Milo program due mainly to it getting so big.

2007 saw a number of other significant milestones in the Milo program.

1. The introduction of a girls cricket development program Crick Hit
2. Once again the club was lucky to be selected to attend on field entertainment at the SCG during the Australia v India test match.
3. The program farewelled its founding coordinator David Jackson after 4 seasons.

In 2008 the VECC continues its committment to the Milo program, during the winter months the program has undertaken a name change known now as In2Cricket.
The program will essentially stay the same with a few logistical changes. Overall the In2Cricket program is essential to any junior clubs survival therefore it has the support and committment of the VECC Committee.

The key to any successful junior program is parents involvement therefore volunteers (up to 10 of them) are required for every session this not only includes dads but mums and grandparents as well.

Many parents over the past 4 years have commented on how much fun it was playing with their children and grandchildren the players enjoy it as well.

In2Cricket is sponsored by Cricket Australia therefore it is very reasonable to play. The fees for 2008 are $45.00 which includes a bat, playing hat, giveaways and your 10 sessions.
The VECC & its major sponsor ESP support the program and provide in addition to the Cricket Australia give away's a VECC club shirt, and put on a presentation day for the players.
Milo is open to all boys and girls aged between 5 and 7 years of age. This program is best suited for players with little or no cricket ability or exposure.

A typical In2Cricket program starts at 4.30pm until 6.00pm.

Week one Introduction and meet the coordinator
Skill: Throwing
Week Two Warm up
Skill introduction to bowling
Game
Week Three Warm up
Skill introduction to batting using the batting tees
Game
Week Four Warm Up
Skill Advanced bowling
Game
Week Five Warm up
Skill Close in ground fielding
Week Six Warm up
Skill Batting shots including the drive and cut shot
Game
WeeK Seven Warm up
Skill deep ground fielding
Game
Week Eight Warm up
Introduction to wicketkeeping
Game
Week Nine Warm up
Multi-skill week, all the previous week rolled into one
Game
Week Ten Games
BBQ and drinks
Presentation and goodbye

In2Cricket will be played in most weather conditions however in the event of severe storms, rain or heat it may be cancelled.