Clubmark NI is the quality standard for junior sports clubs in Northern Ireland. The programme aims to identify, develop, accredit and recognise high quality operational standards in junior sports clubs and the contribution that they make to the development of sport in Northern Ireland.

Templepatrick Cricket Club first gained Level 1 Clubmark NI Accreditation status in January 2011 through the Cricket Ireland Club Accreditation Scheme (the scheme is valid for 3 years). Since then Templepatrick Cricket Club has been working towards re-accreditation, and in August 2016 their dedication and operating standards were again recognised.

Photograph right: Andy McCrea (Club Youth Convenor) receiving the Clubmark NI Re-Accreditation Certificate from Nigel Jones (Regional Development Officer - Cricket Ireland)

On news of their re-accreditation Andy McCrea (Club Youth Convener) went on to say,

"We are delighted to again be classed as an Accredited Club under the Cricket Ireland Club Accreditation Scheme. We have been accredited through this scheme since 2011 and it has been superb to be assured that we are continuing to run all areas of our club in the correct manner to ensure quality structures and procedures for all our members. We have around 200 young members at our club which is quite a challenge but we wish to offer them all a quality product and service and thanks to the many dedicated volunteers at our club we feel all their needs are catered for and they are enjoying positive sporting experiences and environments. The Club Accreditation Scheme has again healthily encouraged us to review and reflect on what we do at the club in our quest to create a high quality sporting foundation for our young participants. We found the Cricket Ireland staff extremely helpful and understanding during the process and wish to thank them for their support. We also wish all other clubs a successful Club Accreditation process."

To gain Cricket Ireland Club Accreditation Level 1 status, clubs are required to evidence compliance with the core Clubmark NI criteria and sport specific criteria:

1. Effective Management - well managed clubs will be committed to ongoing development, and will implement measures to ensure that the club will continue to progress and to retain quality standards.

2. Quality Coaching and Competition - clubs should take their lead from their sport's governing body and be compliant with their guidelines.

3. Safety in Sport - a commitment to provide appropriate and enjoyable sporting activities in safe environments. Key safety issues include: safeguarding children, first aid, codes of conduct.

The benefits of Club Accreditation status can include:

1. Recruiting and developing volunteers
2. Parental appreciation, satisfaction, comfort and confidence
3. Safe environment for children and young people
4. High quality professional service

Sport Northern Ireland value this essential and significant role that sports clubs play in the development of sport, they provide outlets for participation, while also providing quality environments for talented young athletes to develop. The competitive opportunities offered by clubs are yet another key opportunity for participation and development.

For any Cricket Clubs in the NCU interested in attaining Club Accreditation status they can find out more by contacting their Regional Development Officer Nigel Jones at nigel.jones@cricketireland.ie or by visiting Sport NI website at: http://www.sportni.net/clubs-coaching/clubmark-ni