We are delighted to report that long-standing Swardeston player Neil Taylor has been named our new Director of Youth and Women and Girls Cricket.
Neil is a well-established ECB Level 2 coach and has coached young cricketers for many years. He has been heavily involved in Norfolk Youth Cricket both as a coach and Chairman since 2007.
Neil was appointed as our Women and Girls Coach in March 2021 and we are pleased to say he will continue in that role too.
Neil made his debut as an opening bowler for Peterborough Town CC 1st XI at the age of 15, playing in the Northants Premier League. He enjoyed eight seasons at Peterborough with many highlights, including taking all 10 wickets against Barnack CC in the Jaidka Cup.
Moving to Norfolk in 1989 Neil joined Swardeston CC where he still plays along with his son Matthew. In 2011 and 2012 Neil coached a Norfolk County Age Group to two successive national finals at Under-14 and Under-15 level. In 2017 Neil was named Norfolk’s ECB Coach of the Year.
Neil, also an EBH Level 2 hockey coach, said: “Having spent over 30 years playing for Swardeston; representing all four teams at various times, I would like to thank Swardeston Cricket Club for giving me this exciting opportunity.
“I look forward to working closely with all the youth cricketers, helping them realise their full potential in a fun, environment, whilst developing a long-lasting passion for the club and game.”
Neil was appointed cricket coach at Town Close School in Norwich in 2022.
Swardeston chair Stuart Bartram said: “We are delighted that Neil has agreed to take on this role. He has been a tremendous servant to the club and has a first-class track record coaching youngsters and supporting them in their development. We are excited to work with Neil in the years ahead.”
▪ We will shortly be announcing indoor training dates for our youth section. Watch this space.
