It is important to remember that NHY7 is, similar to NHY6, a development year although this season the focus is to build a squad of 48 players for the PSB (Primary School Boys) Tournament in December 2010. The PSB Tournament is an Auckland showcase which allows the ACA selectors look at the best U14 (on 1st september 2010) players in the region - this is basically covers our Y8 players.
North Harbour, due to the size, is allowed to enter four teams (2 "A" teams and 2 "B" teams) and we look at this as a privelage that enables us to, potentially, get 48 boys in front of the ACA selectors. It does mean that our strength is often shared across four teams instead of two, like other districts, and we have had mixed results in the "tournament". However, we are often well represented at the Auckland trials, so we can see the benefit when we look at the bigger picture.
As I noted above, for the majority of Y7 players, this is does not effect us until December 2010. The only reason I mention it, is that each year there are a select few of Y7's that might get trialled for a potential PSB 2009 place.; most likely in a "B" team but, in exceptional cases, sometimes an "A" team. This is an opportunity for a few players to get immersed in the PSB tournament ready for the following year. This selection process has taken place and we are very proud to have had a few of our ex-NHY6 boys invited to attend along with some of the Y6 players that were playing NHY7 last season. Unfortunately, if you have not heard by now, this is not you and, instead, you should be looking to push for NHY7 squad place and to be involved next year.
This season is, therefore, basically split in to before Christmas (BC) and after Christmas (AC). The Y7 boys that are involved in the PSB Tournament 2009 will be joing our squad AC but, until that happens we will be look to build a squad of 24 players BC. The BC squad will be involved in, similar to all Y7 boys, the NHJC Saturday season - which will probably involve 45 over afternoon games. Therefore, due to this increased commitment, the NHY7 BC squad will probably only play a couple of games - I don't want you to get exhausted too soon!
After Christmas, we will be joined by the PSB Y7 boys, we will look to build a squad in to 40 plus players. This part of the season will involve a definite push towards "A" and "B" teams to prepare us for the PSB 2010. It will be at this point that we start building our fixture list against other districts.
I apologise for my cumbersome explanation; I have had to get to grips with it for the first time this year. Whatever happens, I want all NHY7 squad players to enjoy this season and learn as much as they did last year. The games are longer and will require more concentration but, the boys are still very young and developing their skills. So I will try and make sure that they all get the opportunity to develop these skills over the season and enjoy their cricket.
I will keep you updated and look forward to seeing you all very soon.
Rupert
NHY7 Coach/Convenor
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