With the firm backing of sponsors Ironshore Insurance behind them, Western Counties Cricket Association (WCCA) are looking to build upon a broader vision to promote cricket at youth level.

Having acknowledged that the key to cricket in Bermuda lies with youth development, WCCA officials yesterday announced plans to launch a summer youth cricket league for young players under the age of ten, thanks in no small part to the financial support of Ironshore — who have agreed to pump $35,000 into the association’s coffers this summer.

“This partnership will assist us in re-establishing the WCCA series into a high-spirited local event which has been experienced in previous years,” WCCA president Gary Dowling stated.

“We have seen a general community spirit among our member clubs to raise the standard of play in the west and we look forward to establishing a long-term relationship with the community, member teams and Ironshore who we are delighted to have as our major sponsor.”

The WCCA youth league is a collaborative effort involving member clubs and the association’s premier sponsor who all recognised the significance of youth development.

“We are thrilled to be able to sponsor and revitalise this important association. It’s a great way for Ironshore to make a positive impact in the community and our employees are looking forward to getting involved,” said Ironshore CEO Bob Deutsch.

“As a new entrant into the Bermuda marketplace, Ironshore is excited to be working with the WCCA and establishing a presence in the local community.

“We’ve got a lot of exciting events and ideas planned for the WCCA this year and in the future. You can count on seeing an enhanced presence of the Western Counties teams in the years to come,” said Ironshore CFO Mitch Blaser.

“One of our major objectives for the future is to offer cricket scholarships and to further promote the junior league development.”

Registration for the WCCA youth league will be held next Monday, July 9 from 5.30 p.m until 7 p.m. at the Southampton Rangers Sports Club for all interested players under the age of ten. While a large part of the expansion and revamping of the WCCA has been set aside this year for the new youth league, the association have future plans they hope will help re-stimulate interest and restore the competition to its former prestige.

“Another goal of the WCCA is to build a Western Counties select team into a highly competitive force, both locally and internationally,” WCCA secretary Kim Jackson revealed.

“We are moving from strength to strength and are happy to have Ironshore on board as our major sponsor.”

The 2007 Western Counties series kicks off tomorrow at Southampton Oval where cup holders Somerset Bridge lay their title on the line against challengers Southampton Rangers.