Chloe Hughes, an 11-year-old girl from Govanhill, Glasgow, has found a new passion and purpose through community cricket projects in her area. Her journey into the sport began in 2021 when she started attending Cricket Scotland Wicketz training sessions. Since then, Chloe has made significant progress and has recently participated in the eight-week summer HOWZAT! Programme in 2023, which is funded by the Beyond Boundaries Scottish cricket charity.
Chloe’s involvement in these cricket programs has had a profound impact on her life, especially considering the challenges she faced in her childhood. Her mother, Claire Hughes, attests to the positive changes she has witnessed in Chloe since she started playing cricket. Claire mentioned that Chloe had experienced some personality issues due to family difficulties, but cricket provided her with a positive outlet to express her emotions and grief. Through the sport, Chloe has found focus, purpose, and a sense of belonging, which has greatly benefited her overall well-being.
The HOWZAT! Programme, funded by Beyond Boundaries and delivered by Cricket Scotland, has been instrumental in Chloe’s development as a young cricketer. She has actively participated in Wicketz sessions, festivals, and tournaments, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Chloe’s enthusiasm for cricket is evident, as she eagerly looks forward to her weekend club activities, where she can stay active, make friends, and continue to improve her skills on the field.
Zain Muhammad, from Cricket Scotland, commended Chloe’s progress and dedication to the sport, noting her natural talent and hard work. Despite being one of the few girls participating in tournaments alongside older competitors, Chloe demonstrates courage and determination in every game she plays. Keith Wilson, chair of Beyond Boundaries, expressed delight in Chloe’s positive experience with cricket activities, emphasizing the charity’s focus on promoting an active lifestyle, improving mental health, social inclusion, and self-confidence among young individuals like Chloe.
As Chloe continues her cricket journey, balancing her passion for the sport with her studies at Cuthbertson Primary School, her family in Govanhill remains supportive of her endeavors. The community cricket projects in Glasgow have not only provided Chloe with a platform to excel in sports but have also empowered her to overcome challenges, build resilience, and foster valuable life skills that will benefit her in the long run. With ongoing support and funding for initiatives like HOWZAT!, more young individuals like Chloe can discover the transformative power of cricket and experience the joy of playing a sport that brings people together.