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Cricket Summer Camp 2026: Three Days of Cricket, Learning and Integration
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Academy of Swiss Cricket Summer Camp 2026: Three Days of Cricket, Learning and Integration
13–15 July 2026 | Embrach Cricket Ground
The Embrach Cricket Academy in coordination with the coaches from the Academy of Swiss Cricket organised its first three-day summer training camp from 13 to 15 July 2026, providing young refugees with an opportunity to discover cricket, develop their skills and connect with others through sport.
The camp brought together a diverse group of young participants, including complete newcomers to the game and others who had already gained some cricketing experience through local clubs. The initiative was designed not only to develop cricketing skills but also to create an inclusive environment where young people could build friendships, gain confidence and become part of the local cricket community.
Developing cricketing skills through structured training
A key part of the camp was the opportunity to train in the new net facility at Embrach Cricket Ground. The sessions focused on developing fundamental batting and bowling skills, with particular attention given to introducing newcomers to hard-ball cricket.
For many of the participants, this was their first experience of playing with a hard cricket ball and using the protective equipment required for the game, including batting pads, helmets and thigh guards. Experienced coaches guided the players through the basics, helping them become familiar with the equipment, techniques and safety requirements of the sport.
The availability of bowling machines in the new nets also made the sessions more effective, allowing participants to practise batting repeatedly and develop their technique in a controlled environment.
Beyond the technical training, the net sessions provided a valuable opportunity for coaches and organisers to get to know the newcomers, understand their previous cricketing experiences and assess their individual needs. This was particularly important given the different backgrounds, levels of experience and German language abilities among the participants.
The involvement of more experienced young players, many of whom had already spent some time in Switzerland, proved especially valuable. They helped newcomers with translation, explained the different aspects of the game and supported them during the training sessions. This created a positive peer-learning environment in which participants could learn from one another.
From the nets to the cricket field
Following a lunch break, the training continued with a second session focusing on fielding skills. Participants worked on catching and throwing techniques using both tennis balls and hard cricket balls, gradually developing their coordination, confidence and understanding of fielding fundamentals.
The day also included a short middle practice session on the main cricket ground. This gave participants the opportunity to put their newly acquired skills into practice and experience what it is like to play in a match situation. For newcomers, this was an important step in understanding how the different elements of cricket come together as a team sport.
Cricket as a tool for integration
One of the most encouraging outcomes of the three-day camp was the rapid progress made by the participants. The improvement in basic cricketing skills, particularly among those who were new to the sport, was clearly visible over the course of the camp. Their understanding of the game also developed considerably as they became more comfortable with the rules, equipment and different playing situations.
However, the benefits extended well beyond cricket.
For young refugees, participating in regular training provides an opportunity to meet other young people, develop friendships and establish connections within their local communities. Cricket also offers a natural environment for learning and practising German. By interacting with coaches and fellow players during training, participants are exposed to the language in everyday situations, complementing their formal language education.
The camp demonstrated how sport can provide a welcoming and practical platform for social integration, personal development and building a sense of belonging.
A promising start for the future
The success of the summer camp was reflected in what followed. Several participants who joined the programme as complete newcomers decided to continue attending regular training sessions at the Academy of Swiss Cricket. Some have already progressed to represent their teams in U19 competitions.
This is particularly encouraging, as it demonstrates that the initiative is not simply a short-term sporting activity but can serve as an entry point into structured club cricket and long-term participation in the sport.
The Academy of Swiss Cricket remains committed to creating opportunities for young refugees and newcomers to discover cricket, develop their abilities and become active members of the Swiss cricket community.
The first summer camp was an important milestone in this journey, demonstrating once again that cricket is more than just a game – it is a powerful way to bring people together, create opportunities and build bridges between communities.
Through initiatives such as this, the Embrach Cricket Academy and Academy of Swiss Cricket continues to use the power of sport to support inclusion, integration and the development of young people in Switzerland.
