Russell Carter is a dedicated cricket coach. He has been an inspirational figure behind the success of Surrey's wheelchair cricket pilot programme.
The programme is part-funded by the Surrey Cricket Foundation (SCF). The players take part in tailored training sessions that provide in-depth cricket coaching and match practice. The sessions give players the opportunity to refine their technique, learn new skills and apply these in a match environment.
Developing a cricket format that maximises the enjoyment and competitiveness of the sport for wheelchair users is one of the aims of the programme. With this in mind, the programme experiments with various creative methods to find relevant and appropriate ways of rewarding running between the wickets in order to score matches efficiently. The sessions will also ensure that the game is played in an environment where players have access to appropriate protective equipment.
Russell Carter brings the unique perspective and unwavering commitment to this growing initiative through his personal experience as a wheelchair user. He was recently appointed as Surrey Wheelchair Cricket Manager due to his drive and passion for the programme.
With a rich cricketing background, from his early days with Surrey's youth programme to captaining league representative teams, Russell's expertise extends beyond the field. He holds a Level 2 Core Cricket Coach certificate. He is currently studying for a Level 3 Diploma from the R66T Academy.
Russell was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2002. Despite the challenges he has faced since then, he continues to pursue his love of cricket. His MS’ journey took an unexpected turn in 2020 when he suffered a severe relapse. It left him with limited mobility andneed for a wheelchair.
His involvement with SCF's wheelchair cricket initiative stems from a genuine desire to make the sport accessible to everybody. He recognises the lack of awareness surrounding disability cricket and is inspired by the enthusiasm and commitment of wheelchair cricketers.
As well as his passion for the sport, Russell is motivated by the positive impact wheelchair cricket can have on individuals and families. He stresses the importance of creating an inclusive environment where participants can focus on the joys of cricket and put aside their disabilities and worries for a moment.
Russell's efforts to expand the programme and reach more people is a testament to his commitment to wheelchair cricket. He envisions a future where wheelchair cricket thrives alongside other formats of cricket, providing a platform for people with disabilities to showcase their skills and passion.
The wheelchair cricket season kicked off on Sunday 11 February and the training sessions are open to wheelchair users of all abilities. The second session will take place on Sunday 18 February at YMCA East in Redhill.
In 2023, the number of young people involved in the Foundation's disability programmes increased by almost 20% on the previous year. There was also an 11% increase in the number of SEND schools/schools with a SEND department where SCF provided cricket coaching.