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August 23, 2010
UPPER MARLBORO, MD - Prince George's County Public Schools will
become the first American school system to offer the centuries-old game
of cricket to its physical education classes this fall.
The new program, sponsored by the United States Youth Cricket
Association and delivered by the Maryland Youth Cricket Association,
will give free equipment and instruction in the original American team
sport to PGCPS elementary and middle schools. This fall, MYCA will begin
training physical education teachers in the sport and provide schools
with cricket equipment.
"Prince George's County Public Schools is excited about this
partnership that will bring the international sport of cricket to our
teachers and students," said Dr. William R. Hite, Jr. Superintendent of
Schools.
Cricket emphasizes good sportsmanship, is easily modified for indoor
or outdoor play, and can be adapted to any playing surface. The world's
second-most popular sport, cricket can also be used to promote a greater
understanding of international cultures as children learn about
cricket-playing nations and their players.
USYCA is a network of volunteer organizations that promotes good
health and an active lifestyle for children through cricket and has
recently announced a partnership with the President's Council on
Physical Fitness and Sports. The groundbreaking USYCA cricket program is
being offered free of charge to any American school system that
expresses an interest.
"We are delighted that Prince George's County will be bringing
cricket to its schools this year," said Jamie Harrison, President of
USYCA. "It is fitting that a county with as much history as Prince
George's will be returning to America’s first team sport, a sport that
was played by George Washington's soldiers at Valley Forge.
"Cricket is a sport for every type of student, and not simply for
those who are large, strong or fast. Cricket rewards patience, technique
and intelligence, which will hopefully encourage more students to
participate," Harrison said. "It's a game that focuses on patience and
practice, and it is a great sport for kids to learn about fitness."
The United States Youth Cricket Association is dedicated to
introducing cricket to American children by supporting local youth
cricket organizations and by sharing funding, printed and digital
resources, and "best practices."
For more information on the USYCA, visit http://usyouthcricket.org.
Contact:
Jamie Harrison, President
United States Youth Cricket Association
usyouthcricket@gmail.com
443-835-0619
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