VCA and Interchange Launch National Cricket Academy to Develop Future Stars
- Vanuatu Cricket
- 18 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The Vanuatu Cricket Association (VCA), with the generous support of Interchange, proudly launched the Interchange Cricket Academy on Thursday. This marks a landmark initiative aimed at developing the next generation of cricketing talent across the country.
Held under blazing sunshine at the Vanuatu Cricket Grounds at Korman, the launch was attended by Interchange General Manager Niall Downey and Humility Welin, along with VCA CEO Tim Cutler and High Performance Manager Chris Laffan. They were joined by the majority of the Academy’s inaugural Port Vila intake of 30 players.
The Interchange Cricket Academy has been established to nurture and support the next generation of national cricketers. Its comprehensive structure combines elite cricket training with personal development, education, and community leadership. Overseen nationally by High Performance Manager Chris Laffan, the Academy will soon expand to a total of 50 players, with 20 additional inductees from Santo and Tanna.
The selected players, an even mix of girls and boys, were welcomed into the Academy following a rigorous selection process based on talent, attitude, and potential. They now begin a structured 12-month development pathway featuring high-performance coaching, strength and conditioning, match experience, and educational support.
Speaking at the launch, Tim Cutler said,
“This is a huge day for Vanuatu Cricket. The Interchange Cricket Academy is about more than just developing cricketers. It’s about developing young people to help them become the leaders of tomorrow. With equal opportunities for girls and boys, this program will support emerging leaders on and off the field. We’re incredibly grateful to Interchange for backing this vision and investing in our future.”
Interchange General Manager Niall Downey added,
“We’re proud to partner with the VCA on a project that is focused on long-term development and impact. The young players selected today represent the future of Vanuatu cricket, and we’re excited to help provide the support, structure and opportunities they need to thrive, both as athletes and as role models in their communities.”
Interchange Cricket Academy inductee and national record-holding athlete Anna Griffin expressed her excitement at being selected,
“I’ve only recently discovered cricket but really love it. I am very excited about being part of the academy and continuing to learn and improve...and showing what Vanuatu girls can do!”
The launch represents the latest milestone in the partnership between Interchange and the VCA, following the signing of a major sponsorship agreement earlier this year.
The Academy is one of several programs made possible through this support, with a shared focus on youth development, gender equality and broader social impact through sport.
Further details on the Academy structure, regional inductees, coaching panel, and performance calendar will be released in the near future.