Youth cricket, its development and the status of the sport at school level were among the issues highlighted by the Restructuring Committee chaired by Jim Woolridge, whose report was circulated to clubs last week.

The report clearly indicated that youth cricket should be a priority and made numerous recommendations on the subject.

"At a time when there is so much competition from other activities for the interest and talents of Bermuda's youngsters, the development of cricket from beginning or "grass root'' level within a recognised structure is essential if the sport is to progress and prosper,'' read the report.

Key ingredients in developing the game at youth level were, according to Woolridge and his committee: The early continuing participation in the game of as many young people as possible.

Evidence of a "pathway to excellence'' with a distinctive end-result being clearly identified.

Recognition that attaining this objective was not only worthwhile but realistic.

Opportunities to become sufficiently committed to the purpose of the programme so that personal and national goals could be achieved.

The committee felt that Bermuda Cricket Board of Control would find "ready support'' in the local business community for any well-structured and progressive youth programme.

On a separate note, directed at school cricket, the report said that from observations received it was obvious that there was a need to explore many areas for improvement of the sport at this level.

It pointed out the following: a) There were misconceptions with regard to the playing of cricket in the local schools, especially at primary level where there was quite an extensive programme.

b) The secondary schools offered only a basic or skeleton programme of cricket due to an abbreviated term (less than six weeks available after the track and field season) and examinations. Very few secondary school teams of any age group had the opportunity to play in regular competition against their peers from other schools.

c) The out-of-school summer clinics for youngsters aged eight to 12 were very well supported because they were very well organised and very well run.

d) There was a lack of qualified coaches in the schools; the possibility of workshops for teachers as part of their professional development programme was suggested as one means of addressing this concern.

e) The principal problem was the lack of continuity of cricket throughout the education system. Although played at a very satisfactory level in the primary schools, it was far from adequate at the secondary stage. The challenge for cricketing authorities was to find ways to avoid this discrepancy and to "tap into students' talents.

According to the report, a submission by Police revealed that their players were willing to coach and train youngsters and make their cricket facilities in Prospect available for schools. The Police Club also disclosed how it would support any other youth programmes organised by the BCBC and also become directly involved with neighbouring schools.