FORMER Malteenoes players Alex Walker and Earl Leitch, along with Dave Jagernauth, have combined to pay the cost for 18 less fortunate children for this year’s Malteenoes Cricket Academy.

Walker, who lives in England, and Leitch and Jagernauth from New York, said the G$3 000 registration fee should not prevent a child from experiencing the benefits of learning about cricket and developing life skills.

The Academy commences on July 23 and is available for boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 18 years.

Classroom work and on-field cricket skills will be taught at the Academy.

Leitch, a member of the 1986 Malteenoes team who won every National Youth tournament that year, said his time spent at the club helped to make him the man he is today.

“I grew up in Albouystown and understand the plight of kids who miss out on life-changing opportunities because they can’t afford to attend a programme like this one” Leitch stated.

Jagernauth works with kids in the USA, playing baseball and cricket and echoed Leitch’s thoughts.

“Academies like these develop team work, discipline, respect for peers and coaches and most of all life-long friendships” Jagernauth said.

Only the first 18 such participants will be accepted since no more than 120 students can be accommodated.

The Academy runs from 09:00hrs to 15:00hrs each weekday with lunch being provided.

Registration forms can be uplifted at Malteenoes in Thomas Lands. Tel 225-6509.