News

More than 150 young people from across Belfast, the North West, and Donegal came together today at the Cricket Connects Camp, hosted by Cricket Ireland at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont.

The one-day event saw participants from a wide range of sporting backgrounds — including GAA, hockey, and rugby — take part in fun, inclusive activities designed to promote physical activity, teamwork, and community connection. For many, it was their first time trying cricket, alongside opportunities to experience other sports such as hockey and GAA.

The Camp was attended by Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly and Pam Cameron, who met participants, coaches, and organisers, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the day.

The Cricket Connects Camp forms part of Cricket Ireland’s ongoing commitment to growing grassroots participation and working in partnership with other sporting bodies to break down barriers and create shared opportunities for young people to engage with physical activity.

Chair of Cricket Ireland Chair Brian MacNeice said:

“Cricket is one of the most welcoming sports in Ireland and we have a long, proud history of working collaboratively with other sporting bodies and community groups to encourage kids to get involved in physical activities.

“As a sport, cricket is for everyone, but while today’s camp offered a chance for many local kids to try cricket for the first time, it also allowed them to experience each other’s sports in a fun and supportive setting.

“Looking around us, what is obvious to me is the power of sport as a means to bring people together, promote inclusiveness and strengthen community bonds, particularly among the next generation.

“What is also evident is that the Belfast community has a wonderful shared community space here at NICSSA and cricket is honoured to be a key part of this multi-sport precinct. We are committed to support plans for future improvements here, and look forward to ensuring the local community can enjoy a diverse range of sports right in the heart of the Stormont Estate.

“This event was a true team effort to put together. We would like to thank Sport NI and the NI Government for their support, NICSSA for providing this fantastic venue and our sports industry partners for their enthusiasm and commitment. We also couldn’t have done it without the many cricket community volunteers, community partners and sponsors who ensured this year’s event went ahead in style.”

Junior Minister Aisling Reilly said:

“It is fantastic to see so many young people involved in this Cricket Ireland event and enjoying all the physical and mental benefits of taking part in sports. Through sports, children learn to be competitive, to strive to succeed and how to cope with the ups and downs of winning and losing . Today’s ‘Cricket Connects Camp’ is a great example of how sports can unite young people from different backgrounds and from across this island to a team and build new friendships.”  

Junior Minister Pam Cameron said: 

“I was delighted to be able to attend today’s Cricket Connects Camp and to meet with the young people taking part in the activities.

“We want to see a better shared future for everyone, and sport is such a powerful medium for bringing young people across Northern Ireland together and laying the foundations to build long-lasting friendships.

“I want to congratulate Cricket Ireland on hosting the event and their ongoing work in encouraging grassroots participation and helping to get more children involved in sport.”