At the end of season 2024, the board worked with staff and players to evaluate how we could better shape season 2025. This resulted in a revamped coaching structure, which focuses on three key appointments.
Head coach VCC 1: Tim de Leede
In consultation with Tom Archer, Director of Cricket, Tim de Leede has been appointed as ultimately responsible for the training structure of VCC 1 and VCC 2. Tim needs little introduction as a cricket coach. His first challenge will be the T10 in Spain (European Champions League, March 8-10). Then he will guide VCC 1 through an intense season: a full 50-over competition with 10 teams and a half T20 competition. This year will be extra challenging due to the relegation scheme (three teams are relegated from the Topklasse) and the frequent call-up of our (youth) internationals by the Dutch National Teams. These dynamics affect not only the lineups of VCC 1 and VCC 2, but also the format and content of the training sessions. Tim will be supported by a bowling and batting coach, who will be appointed soon.
Coach VCC 2: Swaroop Poduval
The challenges for VCC 2 lie in the constant interaction with VCC 1, especially when internationals are unavailable. This deserves extra attention. Swaroop Poduval, former player and wicketkeeper of VCC 2, will focus on developing this team. VCC 2 plays in the Hoofdklasse (T20) and the Eerste Klasse (50-over). Swaroop, ICC Level 2 and Gary Kirsten Level 3 Certified coach, has increasingly focused on (youth) training in recent years. His ambition and experience make him the ideal coach to further develop this mostly young team.
Coach VCC 3 and recreational teams: Usman Malik
In addition to his role as head coach of the VCC Cricket Academy, Usman Malik will coordinate the training sessions of VCC 3 and the recreational senior teams. As with VCC 1 and VCC 2, the dynamics of player changes also play out between VCC 2 and VCC 3 (shifting players back and forth). Usman brings structure and focus to these teams, which is essential for good balance and development within the club.
Tom Archer, Director of Cricket said, “The experience of Tim, Swaroop and Usman will help us to continue to move forward and achieve our objectives of providing a platform for players at VCC to develop individually as well as a team, focusing on allowing players to developat their own rate, provide opportunities for them to play at the highest level possible and allow them to reach their potential, regardless of which team they are playing in. The appointment of Tim, Swaroop and Usman will also create a more joined up approach to coaching throughout the club. We are delighted to have so much experience at hand to help all of our playing members as we approach the 2025 season.”
With this strengthened coaching structure, VCC has laid the foundation to make great strides in 2025.
