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Discover Leeds/Bradford UCCE
Yorkshire Post Op-ED (via LinkdIn)
- https://www.linkedin.com/posts/henry-pearson-a61a6b398_yorkshire-cricket-womeninsport-activity-7396599023744208896-wIDN?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAGGwbikBctNewITAqJTRO5VeX7sW6Hkh3xc
The Cricketer Feature Article (via LinkdIn)
By Henry Pearson, Captain of the Leeds/Bradford UCCE Men’s Squad
For over 20 years, the Leeds/Bradford University Centre of Cricketing Excellence (UCCE) has given students from Leeds, Leeds Beckett, and Bradford College a unique route to combine their academic studies with elite cricket.
Now, that pathway is in jeopardy. After long-standing funding was withdrawn, we face a £35,000 shortfall for the 2025/26 season. Without help, Yorkshire could lose one of its most successful cricketing programs — a pipeline that has produced 44 County players and 13 internationals, including Billy Root, Jordan Thompson, Nick Gubbins, and England’s Kate Cross.
The UCCE currently supports 46 student players, from diverse ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. The women’s squad, led by Olivia D’Souza, prides itself on offering a “flexible and supportive environment” where women can pursue elite performance cricket without having to sacrifice their studies. Olivia posits: “there’s never been a better time to invest in the future the women’s game, especially with England set to host the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2026.”
To help support our program, we’re calling on Yorkshire’s cricket family of fans, alumni, and businesses, to help keep this pathway alive. Every donation will support coaching, travel, and facilities, ensuring future generations can pursue both education and excellence in the game we all love.
Organizer
