Emma Doherty interviews new CDO Kathryn Rough on the Women’s game
The NWCU made history this June as they recently appointed Kathryn Rough as their first Women and Girl’s Development Officer. I took the time to ask her a couple of quick questions.
How did you get into cricket?
I have always been involved in sport through playing many different ones including cricket albeit a long time ago! I love the competition of sport and have really enjoyed the coaching side for many years now and I have found a love for the game through my children. The boys will drop everything for cricket including Fortnite, FIFA and iPods!
What about cricket do you like so much?
The fact that so many people can play it. The fact that it can engage a whole community. How tactical the game is and how I am always learning when watching it or having to listen to Davy Sca!!
I also love the paradox of the game in that it is a team sport played by individuals. There is no hiding place behind your teammates when you are batting or bowling. Being confident in your own ability when the pressure is on is a great skill to learn at a young age.
The variety of the ways the games can be played is great, as it can be flexible to suit different groups of players.
What made you apply for the post of Women and Girl’s Development Officer?
I have always had a passion for getting and keeping girls and women involved in sport. I recognise the social and physical benefits of cricket and want to help impart that knowledge and experience in this female role.
Initially, what was your opinion on the state of women and girls cricket in the NW?
There is certainly a lot to do but there is a lot of support for the growth of the women’s game. The NWCU are definitely behind the development of this area and are ahead of other geographical areas with this appointment. This will give the women’s game a springboard to develop from.
How do you plan to develop women and girls cricket?
I would like to improve the image of the sport by enhancing the professionalism of the current set-up. My role only started in June but I would like to leave a plan in place for next season with buy-in from the club leads. This could include the Women’s Masterclass sessions running from earlier in the year, offering school competitions for girls at Primary and Secondary level and continuing with the U12 girls hardball matches with a possible summer competition. This list is not exclusive and will hopefully expand the longer I am in post.
Lastly, in the future, how would you like things to be for women’s cricket?
On par with the men.
