Fresh from completing an International Cricket Council (ICC) coaching program in the nation’s capital, Simon Deiwillie of the Alotau Cricket Association is returning to Milne Bay Province with a renewed mission to strengthen grassroots cricket and coach education.
Deiwillie was among the participants who completed the three-day ICC Level One Coach Tutor Training, held from 14–16 July 2026 at Amini Park in Port Moresby. Reflecting on the experience, he described it as a privilege that significantly elevated his leadership and practical skills.
“I feel grateful and honoured for the opportunity given. It was a valuable experience that enhanced my knowledge, practical coaching tools and boosted my confidence to go back and help develop cricket in Milne Bay,” he said.
The course focused on inclusive teaching methods and adaptable communication for diverse learning styles.
“To be honest, I’ve learnt a lot. Some of the key things I picked up were the ability to create learning environments that cater for different learning styles, including written, visual, auditory and kinaesthetic engagement. I also learnt how to develop questions that encourage learning and how to work with groups of people operating at different levels of competence and from different backgrounds,” he said.
According to Deiwillie, acquiring these competencies is vital for building a sustainable framework for the sport nationwide.
“This training is important because it gives us the skills and confidence to deliver quality coaching education in our regions while helping create more qualified local coaches. This will build a stronger pathway for players and help cricket continue to grow in Papua New Guinea,” he said.
He extended his gratitude to the ICC and Cricket PNG for facilitating the program.
“Special thanks to ICC facilitator Toby Doyle for encouraging us to improve on our weaknesses and sharing his knowledge to boost our confidence as coaches within our regions. Thank you also to all the participants and Cricket PNG for making the training enjoyable and practical,” he said.
With the training now behind him, Deiwillie is immediately channeling his learnings back home, where the Alotau Cricket Association is gearing up for a busy calendar of local development initiatives.
Preparations are currently underway for the upcoming Liklik Smash tournament, scheduled for 18 August to commemorate Abels Day during the Coral Sea Festival, engaging schools under the Kwato Agency in the Alotau District.
Additionally, planning is progressing for the Ahioma Cricket Association senior men’s and women’s competition, which is slated to kick off in late August or early September as Milne Bay continues to witness steady growth in participation across the province.
