The Devon Cricket Foundation is excited to introduce the Club Development Plan Programme.

Inspired by the ECB's Inspiring Generations strategy for 2025-2029, and supported by The Cricket Collective: Thriving Clubs, Connected Communities - Club Development Guide, this brand-new initiative is designed to help every community cricket club across the county build a stronger, more sustainable future.

Cricket clubs sit at the heart of their communities. Yet many clubs face challenges that limit the impact they aspire to make, whether that’s volunteer strain, a lack of strategic direction, ageing facilities, or difficulty attracting and retaining members.

The Club Development Plan Programme has been created to help clubs tackle these challenges with confidence, clarity, and practical support. Through structured guidance, tailored resources, and dedicated facilitation, the programme will help committees understand their current position, identify priorities, and plan effectively for long-term success.

A support document for sharing with club committees and members is available here:

CLUB DEVELOPMENT PLAN PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

What Is the Club Development Plan Programme?

This future-focused programme supports cricket clubs in developing:

  • A clear vision and strategic plan for the next 1-3 years.
    • Either by evolving your club’s existing plans or creating a completely new direction.
  • Action plans in their priority areas.
  • Guidance, resources, and ongoing support to deliver the plan.

Delivered by our Club Development Officers, the programme provides clubs with the expertise, tools, and frameworks needed to set a positive direction and take meaningful action.

Why This Programme Matters

ECB research shows that clubs frequently experience similar challenges:

1. Strategic Planning

Many clubs want long-term direction but lack the time or structure to pull a plan together.

2. Analysing Operations

Clubs often run on tradition and habit; this programme brings a fresh perspective to help identify what’s working and what could be improved.

3. Volunteer Engagement

Too many clubs rely on a small group of overstretched volunteers. This programme helps broaden involvement and reduce burnout.

4. Fit-for-the-Future Framework

Using the ECB's four pillars (Playing Offer, People, Places & Practices), clubs can assess their future readiness.

5. Community Impact

Many clubs want to strengthen their role as a community hub, increase income, and grow membership. This programme helps identify how.

What Your Club Will Gain

By taking part in the Club Development Plan Programme and running the associated workshops, your club will leave with:

  • A clear and inspiring club vision.
  • A 1-3 year strategic plan tailored to your club's ambitions.
  • Action plans in agreed priority areas.
  • Resources and support to make your plans a reality.
  • Greater volunteer engagement and shared ownership of the club's future.
  • A structured process for becoming a stronger, more sustainable community club.

Whether you are a small village team or a growing multi-team club, this programme gives you a roadmap to build a thriving future.

Key Message to Clubs

Unlock your club's potential through the Club Development Plan Workshops

These hands-on sessions will help you:

  • Build clear goals.
  • Maximise your resources.
  • Strengthen your club’s community impact.
  • Plan for long-term growth.
  • Create a club that is truly fit for the future.

If your club needs support with these workshops, please get in touch with your Club Development Officer (below).

How the Programme Works

Clubs will:

  1. Attend a launch workshop introducing the process.
  2. Form a small project team within the club.
  3. Work with RCB staff to explore priorities, opportunities, and challenges.
  4. Develop a vision and strategic plan.
  5. Create action plans in key areas.
  6. Receive ongoing support to deliver the plan.

Want to Get Involved?

To register your interest or to find out more, please contact your Club Development Officer:

North & East Devon
Antony Cox
antony.cox@devoncricket.co.uk
07375 323421
South & West Devon
Ian McCombes
ian.mccombes@devoncricket.co.uk
07939 016149