Cricket South Africa (CSA) and KFC take immense pride in the annual KFC Mini-Cricket Seminar, which takes place this year from June 30 to July 3, 2024, in Cape Town. This flagship event of the KFC Mini-Cricket programme brings together over 200 mini-cricket volunteer coaches and officials from various regions across the country.
The seminar serves as a crucial platform for knowledge sharing, best practice discussions, strategic planning, aiming to enhance the programme's impact, reach, and opportunities to engage even more children in South Africa's largest grassroots sports initiative.
KFC Mini-Cricket is a national treasure, with over 127 000 children participating, getting active, and making new friends. The programme not only fosters a love for the game but also promotes a healthy lifestyle, steering young participants away from social disadvantages. Supported by 16 cricket unions across South Africa, the programme is a beacon of hope and development for the youth.
Central to the success of KFC Mini-Cricket are the over 13 000 dedicated volunteer coaches. These tireless men and women support young cricketers, helping them to cultivate a passion for cricket and develop essential life skills. The annual KFC Mini-Cricket Seminar is a moment to honour and celebrate these unsung heroes.
CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki, said;
"CSA is thrilled to host the annual KFC Mini-Cricket Seminar for 2024. This event is not only about improving our programme but also about recognising the incredible efforts of our volunteers who make it all possible. Their dedication ensures that thousands of children across South Africa can enjoy the benefits of this wonderful sport.
“The KFC Mini-Cricket programme is committed to providing access and levelling the playing field for children from all backgrounds. By engaging with communities nationwide, the programme breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for children who may not have had access to organised sports.
"This initiative is pivotal in ensuring that every child, regardless of their socio-economic status, has the chance to play cricket, develop skills, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Moseki.
KFC Marketing Manager for Brand and Purpose, Andra Nel, expressed enthusiasm for the new season, stating, “The KFC Mini-Cricket National Seminar is a testament to our commitment to nurturing volunteer coaches and young talent to ensure a bright future for South African cricket.
"As we celebrate 15 years of the KFC Mini-Cricket sponsorship, we continue to use sport as a nation builder, helping build social cohesion and providing a platform where children are encouraged to be the best version of themselves.”
“The annual KFC Mini-Cricket National Seminar not only celebrates the programme's achievements but also recognises the dedication of volunteer coaches and administrators who are crucial to the success of our programme.
"The importance of the KFC Mini-Cricket volunteer coaches cannot be overstated, as they form the backbone of the KFC Mini-Cricket programme, ensuring its continued success and the growth of cricket at the grassroots level.
"Their enthusiasm and knowledge help create a positive and engaging environment that keeps young players interested and motivated to continue playing cricket,” she concluded.