Parklands Cricket are pleased to offer one of the city's leading "Smash Play" program for 4 - 8 year olds on Tuesday nights. Our program has sold out in its last three terms (2023-24) with over 40 children participating each term.
What?
Smash Play is a new program developed by New Zealand Cricket for junior tamariki with a focus on game play, values, participation and enjoyment.
At Smash Play children or "Smashies" will play cricket-related games that will gently develop their skills with the above focus points in mind. They will not play "regular" cricket (though for older children, we may have the occasional shorter game from time to time!) so if you would prefer a traditional style, consider entering them in Saturday cricket instead.
For more details, see New Zealand Cricket's Smash Play website here.
If you're not sure if Smash Play could be for you, check out our "Have a Gos" in September which will largely feature Smash Play-type games.
Who?
While Smash Play games are suitable for older age groups, Parklands are currently limiting our sessions to 4 to 8 year olds. When appropriate, children will be grouped at the sessions so they are playing with others of a similar age.
If your child is 4, it would help if they have taken sports instruction before (e.g. have attended "Little Kickers" or "Kelly Sports" or similar). We also ask that you actively help them with instructions and to participate in games.
Sessions will be organised and run entirely by volunteer parents and potentially older junior players from the club. Our coaches are not paid.
How Much?
$30 for up to 6 sessions, weather dependent.
This minimal fee covers gear costs and makes you a member of our family friendly, community focused Parklands United Sports Club. We welcome and encourage Smash Players and their parents to attend our fun club nights on Saturdays as full members.
When?
Term 1 2025: 3:45 - 4:30 (4 to 5 year olds) and 4:45 to 5:30 (6 to 8 year olds), every Tuesday from 18 February to 25 March
Where?
Next to the cricket nets, Parklands Reserve, 77 Queenspark Drive.
What to Wear/Bring?
Smashies should be in comfortable shoes for running around with a water bottle at hand.
A t-shirt will be loaned for the duration of the program at the first session with a unique colour for each "team". Loaning these keeps costs as low as possible and accessible to all.
Registrations
Registrations for Term 1 2025 are now open here!
When registering, you will first need to create a login for the New Zealand Cricket PlayHQ system, and can then continue to register your child.
Questions?
Please contact us at parklandscricket@gmail.com
Admin Login