If your child has just started showing an interest in cricket, you might be wondering where they begin and where they could end up. At HECC Cricket in Sawbridgeworth, there is a clear, step-by-step route that takes young players from their very first session all the way to competitive adult cricket. Every stage builds on the last, and every coach holds an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) qualification. You can learn more about what that involves on the ECB’s Coach Education page.
The Pathway at a Glance
| Programme | Age Group | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Development Squad | Ages 6 to 11 | Fundamentals and hardball readiness |
| Junior Academy | Ages 8 to 11 | Accelerated skill development |
| Senior Development Squad | Ages 12 to 14 | Independence and competitive cricket |
| Emerging Academy | Ages 11 to 13 | Invitation-only, high-intensity training |
| Senior Academy | Ages 14 and above | Player-led learning and match preparation |
Junior Development Squad (Ages 6 to 11)
This is where most young cricketers start. The Junior Development Squad runs across three terms in 55-minute sessions, split into three levels by age. JDS1 (ages 6 to 7) covers athletic basics and fun cricket games. JDS2 (ages 8 to 9) introduces hardball cricket and more detailed technique work. JDS3 (ages 10 to 11) adds indoor and outdoor matchplay to build tactical awareness and teamwork. Throughout all three levels, life skills such as discipline, patience, and confidence are woven into every session.
Junior Academy (Ages 8 to 11)
The Junior Academy runs alongside the JDS for players who are progressing well and want to push themselves further. It is a great complement to one-to-one coaching and gives motivated players extra time to develop their skills across batting, bowling, and fielding.
Senior Development Squad (Ages 12 to 14)
The Senior Development Squad marks a shift in how coaching works at HECC. Players are expected to start taking ownership of their own game, with coaches on hand to support rather than lead. Tuesday evening sessions include video analysis, bowling machines, and exclusive use of HECC’s five-lane facility.
Emerging Academy (Ages 11 to 13)
The Emerging Academy is by invitation only and is aimed at players in Years 7 and 8 who show real commitment and a genuine desire to improve. Sessions are 90 minutes long and include specialist coaching, psychology support, video analysis, and bowling machines. If your child is not yet known to the HECC coaching team, a trial session will be arranged first. Places are limited, so it is worth getting in touch early.
Senior Academy (Ages 14 and Above)
The Senior Academy sits at the top of the HECC pathway. Players take full ownership of their development, with coaches creating the right environment for learning rather than directing every session. As well as 90-minute squad nights on Thursdays, Senior Academy members can take part in the Winter Indoor League and summer fixtures against adult club sides, giving them real matchplay experience before stepping into club cricket.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether your child is picking up a bat for the first time or already playing regularly for a local club, there is a place for them at HECC. Contact the team on 01279 724782 or email enquiries@heccsport.com to find out more.
HECC Cricket is based at Tharbies Farm, Sawbridgeworth, CM21 0LL, and is open seven days a week.