With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, twenty (20) members of Charterhouse School Cricket, accompanied by four (4) coaching staff are now back in England having completed a successful 5-day pre-season training camp between Monday 9^th and Saturday 14^th April at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

Charterhouse Director of Cricket Martin Bicknell and three (3) members of Charterhouse School Coaching Staff accompanied Twenty (20) players who completed bowling, batting and fielding practice as well as strength and conditioning training sessions and competitive matches on the new cricket ground, as they stepped up their physical preparations for the upcoming 2018 season.

Charterhouse School Director of Cricket, Martin Bicknell commented:

“Desert Springs provides World Class facilities only two hours away by plane with exceptional staff!”

The Charterhouse squad also benefited from two (2) days use of the new Cricket Ground at Desert Springs, incorporating two competitive fixtures against the Rowse Academy XI who were also at the resort for their own pre-season preparations during the same period.

Charterhouse School Director of Sport, Nicholas Beasant commented:

“Desert Springs is a sensational venue with excellent facilities and service. All of the staff really understand your needs, and nothing is too much to ask. Thank you so much.”

Charterhouse players remarked of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy:

“I really enjoyed the trip. The cricket and resort facilities were excellent, thank you!” Nick Payne (Aged 15yrs.)

“Resort accommodation and all of the facilities are truly excellent, thank you!” George Barlow (Aged 18yrs.)

“Desert Springs Resort is an excellent place to come and stay in order to prepare for the season ahead. Wonderful facilities and beautiful weather!”  David Campbell (Aged 17yrs.)

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in the Crocodile Club Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, twenty-two (22) members of Malvern College Cricket, accompanied by three (3) coaching staff are now back in England having completed a successful 4-day pre-season training camp between Monday 9^th and Friday 13^th April at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

Malvern College Director of Cricket Noel Brett, with Malvern College Cricket Coach Richard Coughtrie and Sports Coach Liam Smith, accompanied Twenty-Two (22) players who completed bowling, batting and fielding practice as well as strength and conditioning training sessions and match simulations on the new cricket ground, as they stepped up their physical preparations for the upcoming 2018 season.

Malvern College Director of Cricket Noel Brett commented:

“We have had a fantastic time at Desert Springs and been looked after so well. The facilities are second to none and have been great for our cricket. We will definitely try and come back in the future.”

The squad also benefited from use of the new Cricket Ground at Desert Springs, incorporating specific practice sessions involving; throw downs, slip catch training and fielding exercises as well as match simulations.

Sports Coach Liam Smith remarked;

“Awesome week! 10/10 cricket tour facilities, one of the best tours ever!”

Malvern College Cricket Coach, Richard Coughtrie commented:

“A fantastic week of cricket in the sun. The boys have had a wonderful week with great facilities.”

A few of the Malvern College players said of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy:

“A brilliant week with amazing cricket facilities.” Will Hartley

“Sensational cricket tour!” Jamie Hawkins

“Beautiful accommodation and facilities.” Jack Whitfield

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments and townhouses normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in the Crocodile Club Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, twenty-seven (27) members of The Rowse Academy, accompanied by two (2) coaches are now back in England having completed a successful 5-day pre-season training camp between Sunday 8^th and Friday 13^th April at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

Rowse Academy Cricket Coaches Andy Rowsell and Bob Wincer accompanied the players who completed bowling, batting and fielding practice as well as strength and conditioning training sessions and competitive matches on the new cricket ground, as they stepped up their physical preparations for the upcoming 2018 season.

Rowse Academy Cricket Coach, Andy Rowsell commented:

“Another fantastic visit. Thank you for your exceptional service levels and taking care of our every need. We very much look forward to returning in 2019!”

The squad also benefited from two (2) days use of the new Cricket Ground at Desert Springs, incorporating specific practice sessions involving; throw downs, slip catch training and fielding exercises as well as match simulations.Two fixtures for the Rowse Academy representatives to compete against the Charterhouse School XI who were also at the resort for their own pre-season preparations during the same period were also played, allowing for practice to be put into play!

Rowse Academy Cricket Coach, Bob Wincer commented:

“Desert Springs is an outstanding resort with facilities to match. The new Oval is a wonderful addition to the cricket offering. Thank you for making us feel so welcome.”

Rowse Academy players said of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy:

“This is my second time here and it just gets better and better!” Owen Tennant

“Amazing cricket facilities with excellent food, thanks so much!” Joe Harland

“Desert Springs is the perfect place for a cricket tour, the Oval is beautiful.” Luke Smith

“I loved my time here and can’t wait to come back, thank you!” Matthew Maloy

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in the Crocodile Club Restaurant.

Great lunch 

We stopped here for lunch today and ordered various dishes and the desert spring salad which was superb.

The steak baguettes were tasty, and the kids enjoyed the burgers and hot dogs.

Lovely setting and will return for dinner.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, seventy one (71) members of the Whitgift School Cricket Squad, accompanied by ten (10) members of staff and coaches are now back in England having completed a successful 4-day pre-season training camp between Tuesday 3rd – Saturday 7th April at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

 Neil Kendrick, Whitgift School Head of Cricket Performance remarked of Desert Springs Resort and the training camp;

“This is the second time that we have brought out over 70 junior cricketers to Desert Springs. Yet again the staff at the resort have gone above and beyond to provide a fantastic cricketing experience. The addition of the main Oval is the icing on the cake and has meant that we have been able to deliver a true challenging match environment, sincere thanks to all.”

“The boys have enjoyed sensational facilities and the opportunity to train on first-class wickets and the food and service has both been great as always.”

“The boys have thoroughly enjoyed themselves with outstanding facilities and accommodation. A fantastic experience from start to finish.”

Those were the views of Whitgift School Cricket coaches James McCann and Ben Morris, respectively.

The focus of the training camp was to provide an opportunity for the players to both work seriously on their batting and bowling and fielding skills as well as their fitness levels, through a specific and carefully planned programme, to ensure that the players are in the best possible shape leading up to the commencement of the new season.

Grass net practice, both bowling and batting as well as strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work took place at the Cricket Academy. The squad also benefitted from 3-days use of the new Cricket Ground at Desert Springs with a varied programme that incorporated specific practice sessions involving; throw downs, slip catch training and fielding exercises as well as match simulations and matches.

A few of the players views of their experience at Desert Springs Resort during the training camp were;

Matthew Roberts (aged 13 yrs.); “The resort is amazing. The cricket ground enabled us to play excellent cricket!”

Rahul Tangirula (ages 11 yrs.); “An amazing cricket facility. It has been great to get away to a place like this for pre-season. The food and accommodation were also first-class.”

Jaime Player (aged 12 yrs.); “Incredible! Everything I could have wished for for this tour. The food, service and facilities were amazing!”

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned Apartments and Townhouses normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players at the ‘Crocodile Club’ Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, Twenty (20) members of the ECB Physical Disability Squad, accompanied by six (6) Management, staff and coaches are now back in the UK having completed their six (6) day pre-season warm weather training camp between Wednesday 28^th March – Tuesday 03^rd April at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

 Ian Salisbury, Head Coach of England’s physical disability team remarked of Desert Springs Resort and the training camp;

“If you ever want the perfect preparation for a season, go to Desert Springs for your pre-season! Thank you to all the staff for making us feel so welcome.”

Chris Highton, ECB physical disability team Performance Analyst commented:

“Excellent visit, really well looked after, nothing was too much trouble. Hope to see you next year.”

The focus of the training camp was to provide an opportunity for the players to both work seriously on their batting and bowling skills as well as their fitness levels, through a specific strength and conditioning programme, to ensure that the players are in the best possible shape leading up to the commencement of the new season.

Grass net practice, both bowling and batting took place at the Cricket Academy, whilst strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work was completed at both the Cricket Ground and Gym at the Sierras Sports Club.

A varied programme at the cricket ground involved training sessions comprising; throwdowns, slip catch fielding, outfield fielding practice and match simulations that all culminated in T-20 matches taking place at the new cricket ground at Desert Springs.

A few of the players views of their experience at Desert Springs Resort during the training camp were;

Matt Askin; “Desert Springs Resort is a fantastic facility with fantastic staff who will go above and beyond what would be expected to make us feel comfortable. A brilliant opportunity that we have made the very most of.”

James Nordin; “Outstanding facilities and staff. Everything we wanted or required was taken care of. The pitches and training facilities were first class, and the accommodation and food was excellent.”

Liam O’Brien; “Very good facilities and all the staff were very welcoming and helpful.”

Alex Hammond; “I loved my time here at Desert Springs! The facility is amazing, and all the staff were so helpful and polite.”

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned Apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players at the ‘Crocodile Club’ Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, New Farnley Cricket Club are now back in the UK having completed their three (3) day pre-season warm weather training camp between Tuesday 27^th – Friday 30^th March at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

Paul Hutchison, New Farnley Cricket Club Head Coach remarked of Desert Springs Resort and the training camp;

“Having been to Desert Springs a number of times, I keep coming back for a number of reasons. The facilities really are sensational, matched by the levels of customer service, and when you are almost guaranteed great weather, then you’ve hit the jackpot! The cricket nets are perfect for our requirements at this time of year. Many thanks to all the staff.”

The focus of the training camp was to provide an opportunity for the players to both work seriously on their batting and bowling skills as well as their fitness levels, through a specific strength and conditioning programme, to ensure that the players are in the best possible shape leading up to the commencement of the new season.

Grass net practice, both bowling and batting along with strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work took take place at the Cricket Academy.

A few of the players views of their experience at Desert Springs Resort during the training camp were;

William Swift; “A fantastic few days. Excellent cricket facilities and so good to be outdoors again in the sunshine!”

Andy Langley; “A brilliant trip. A beautiful resort and cricket facilities. Thank you.”

Alex Baldwin; “Practicing outdoors again after a long winter, heaven! We were so well looked after, thanks so much.”

Mark Mason; “Excellent visit. The food in El Torrente was the best that I have ever had!”

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned Apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players at the award-winning ‘El Torrente’ Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, Leicestershire County Cricket Club (Leicestershire CCC) are now back in the UK having completed their five (5) day pre-season warm weather training camp at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

 Between Saturday 17^th – Thursday 22nd February Six (6) Leicestershire CCC management and coaching staff accompanied Sixteen (16) players who completed; grass net practice, both bowling and batting at the Cricket Academy, strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work at the Academy Ground and Gym at the Sierras Sports Club, and as part of their fitness programme the squad also completed a mountain bike trail route. The squad also benefited from the newly developed Cricket Ground at Desert Springs where they completed various practice sessions that included; throw downs, slip catch training and match simulations utilising the ground wicket.

Paul Nixon Leicestershire CCC Head Coach commented:

“An outstanding facility coupled with warm hospitable staff, all with a can-do attitude made our trip into a great experience for everyone. Impeccable service levels. Thank you. See you next year!”

Matt Mason, Leicestershire CCC Head Bowling Coach remarked:

“What a great environment to bring a team to. Great facilities which means players are happy and can focus on performance. Thank you to all the staff for making us feel so welcome.”

John Sadler Leicestershire CCC Assistant Coach remarked:

“A fantastic facility. Exceptional staff and wonderful food. A superb environment to upskill as an individual and as a unit.”

Leicestershire CCC players said of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy:

“Excellent facilities and very helpful and friendly staff.” Michael Carberry (Captain)

“Brilliant training camp at an ever-improving beautiful complex. Can’t wait to come back.” Paul Horton

“Brilliant facilities, very impressed with everything. Can’t wait to come back. A+” Lewis Hill

“Been great to get outdoors! Excellent facilities and very friendly and helpful staff.” Dieter Klein

“Brilliant all-round facilities with welcoming staff. Food is also of a very high quality. Hope to return one day soon.” Gavin Griffiths

“Very enjoyable and productive time at Desert Springs. Outstanding facilities and staff!” Tom Taylor

“Quality week. Cricket was excellent. High quality facilities.” Ben Raine

“Superb visit to Desert Springs. Great pitches. Food and service was excellent. Top class facilities.” Callum Parkinson

“Really enjoyed my time at Desert Springs. Service, food, and facilities were second to none.” Tom Wells

“Loved my time at Desert Springs. Outstanding service in all areas. Would highly recommend to anyone.” Rob Sayer

“Massive thank you to everyone involved in the running of Desert Springs. Everything from the service, to accommodation, to the food, has been exceptional and made sure that we had a really productive training camp” Richard Jones

“Thank you to everybody who has made this pre-season trip amazing. I have loved every minute of it!” Ateeq Javid

“Thank you for the great time spent at Desert Springs. My second time here and even better than the first. Brilliant facilities and excellent food.” Neil Dexter

“Huge thanks to all at Desert Springs for making our stay so comfortable. Can’t wait to be back!” Aadil Ali

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in El Torrente restaurant.

Fifteen (15) members of the Myerscough Cricket Academy aged 16 -19 years, accompanied by two (2) coaching staff, are now back in England having completed a successful 5-day training camp between Sunday 11^th – Friday 16^th March at Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course with its very own dedicated Cricket Ground & Academy.

Liam Castellas, Myerscough College Head of Cricket remarked of Desert Springs Resort and the training camp;

“This was a fantastic experience for our players. Brilliant facilities combined with exceptionally helpful staff allowed us to focus purely on our cricket. I will certainly be looking to return in 2019 after seeing the benefits of the visit to my squad.”

The focus of the training camp was to provide an opportunity for the players to both work seriously on their batting, bowling & fielding skills as well as their fitness levels, through a specific strength and conditioning programme, to ensure that the players are in the best possible shape leading up to the commencement of the new season.

Grass net practice, both bowling and batting along with strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work took take place at the Cricket Academy and Gym at the Sierras Sports Club.

The squad also benefited from putting into practice all of their hard work by competing in two matches at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground against; The Pinitar Pirates U/19 and Cataluyna U/19, both of which they won!

Andrew Fletcher, Myerscough College Assistant Coach said;

“Desert Springs truly exceeded our expectations. We chose Desert Springs to provide our students an opportunity to bat and bowl on grass wickets to support their preparation for the upcoming season and the facilities provided were outstanding. Thank you to all of the staff, resort and ground staff, for all of their hard work in putting the finishing touches to a brilliant pre-season camp.”

A few of the players views of their experience at Desert Springs Resort during the training camp were;

Andrew Drake (Aged 18yrs.); “Great facilities and accommodation. Very helpful staff who looked after us so well. A great experience and trip, thank you!”

Nathan Bend (Aged 17yrs.); “Top quality in all areas, including the staff. It’s been so good we don’t want to leave!”

Callum Birtwell-Jones (Aged 18 yrs.); “Fantastic experience and facilities. We were made to feel so welcome by the staff and residents. I would love to come back and don’t want to leave!”

Zac Christie (Aged 18 yrs.); “Amazing facilities and even better experience. Wish I never had to leave!”

Ross Dickinson (Aged 17yrs.); “The great facilities and hospitality have really made this trip, thanks!”

Reece Willets (Aged 17yrs.); “The resort has both excellent cricket facilities and accommodation.”

Nicholas Pepper (Aged 19yrs.); “Excellent accommodation, great cricket facilities and brilliant service!”

Chris Wilson (Aged 18yrs.); “Top facilities, great hospitality, and the food and service is brilliant!”

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned Apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players at the award-winning ‘El Torrente’ Restaurant.

Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC) have stepped up their preparations for the 2018 cricket season, having completed their second four (4) day warm weather training camp at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

 Between Wednesday 28^th February – Sunday 04^th March, Sam Byrne (LCCC Team Physio) and Chris Benbow (LCCC 2^nd XI Coach), accompanied nine (9) players who completed bowling, batting and fielding practice as well as strength and conditioning training sessions at Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course with its very own dedicated Cricket Ground and Academy, in the Almanzora region of Almeria, Andalucía in south-east Spain.

 LCCC Coach Chris Benbow commented: “Being able to train outdoors in February gives us a great opportunity to transition from indoors to our pre- season tour in March. Being back on grass is key for us during this time of year. Thank you for a great visit.”

 The training camp worked on a specific and carefully planned programme covering technical skills, strength and conditioning and both individual and group activity. Lancashire CCC players said of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Academy:

“Great facilities, thanks again for looking after us, look forward to seeing you next year.” Simon Kerrigan

“Excellent camp, fantastic food!” Tom Bailey

“Another productive visit, excellent facilities all round, thank you.” Liam Hurt

Sam Byrne, LCCC Team Physio remarked;

“Another excellent visit. We are so well looked after at Desert Springs and get all that we require cricket wise. Everything ran smoothly as usual, thank you to all the staff. See you next year.”

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned villas and apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in The Crocodile Club Restaurant.

Six (6) members of the ECB Pace Programme, accompanied by four (4) Management, staff and coaches are now back in England having completed a second successful 5-day training camp between Tuesday 27^th February – Saturday 03^rd March at Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course with its very own dedicated Cricket Ground & Academy.

Kevin Shine, National Lead Pace Bowling Coach remarked of Desert Springs Resort and the training camp;

“This was our second visit during our winter training programme and it was the perfect finish to our camps. The facilities are superb and the staff made us feel so welcome. Thank you so much.”

After their return from South Africa, the focus of the training camp was to provide an opportunity for the players to both work seriously on their batting, bowling & fielding skills as well as their fitness levels, through a specific strength and conditioning programme, to ensure that the players are in the best possible shape during their winter programme.

A varied programme of grass net practice, both bowling and batting took place at the Cricket Academy. Throw-downs, strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work were undertaken at both the Cricket Ground and Gym at the Sierras Sports Club.

Ben Langley, National Lead Physiotherapist remarked;

“Another great visit. Everything that is required for a successful training camp is delivered at Desert Springs.”

A few of the players views of their experience at Desert Springs Resort during the training camp were;

Reece Topley; “A great trip made better by great service.”

Zak Chappell; “Desert Springs Resort is a lovely place with great facilities and beautiful views.”

George Scrimshaw; “This is a great place for a training camp, we had a lovely apartment, and wonderful food!”

Jamie Overton; “Thanks to all staff for another fantastic visit.”

Tom Barber; “Desert Springs is a great place. We were all extremely well looked after.

Excellent facilities and food. Thank you.”

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned Apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players at the award-winning ‘El Torrente’ Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, The Guernsey Cricket Board (GCB) have now completed their five (5) day pre-season warm weather training camp at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy.

 Between Sunday 18^th – Friday 23^rd February Five (5) GCB management and coaching staff accompanied Twenty-Two (22) U’17 players who completed; grass net practice, both bowling and batting, strength and conditioning work, running, speed and agility work, slip catch training and out-field fielding exercises with match simulations at the new Cricket Ground at Desert Springs Resort.

 GCB Operations Officer Colette Gooding commented:

“Desert Springs is a wonderful environment which has allowed our players to develop their cricket skills and ability as well as having a fantastic time and be involved in a range of activities. Many thanks for a great first visit and we hope to see you again next year.”

The training camp worked on a specific and carefully planned programme covering technical skills, strength and conditioning and both individual and group activity that included volleyball and football during non-cricket time.

 GCB players said of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Ground & Academy;

“This is possibly the best place to improve your game, amazing!” Nathan Le Tissier, aged 15 years.

“The resort has very nice accommodation and amazing cricket facilities!” Sam Gates, aged 12 years.

“For a brand-new pitch, it was brilliant, and so well cared for.”  Blake Carre, aged 13 years.

 “To say I was impressed with the facilities would be an understatement!” Harry Gent, aged 13 years.

This has been a great experience with great facilities and really nice staff. I would recommend it for any age group and ability.” Max Johnson, aged 16 years.

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in the Crocodile Club.

Following on from the successful completion of their first of two scheduled training camps earlier this month, between Tuesday 13^th – Saturday 17^th February, three (3) officials from the Irish Ladies Golf Union (ILGU) accompanied eight (8) players representing the U18 and U21 International squads to complete their second 4-day warm weather winter training camp at Desert Springs Resort.

 “Desert Springs is a fantastic place for both golf and leisure. Great facilities and lovely staff, we were so well looked after, many thanks!”

That was the verdict of 24-year-old Paula Grant, one of the ILGU International Squad members.

The training camp utilised the excellent practice facilities at the Desert Springs Golf Academy, where the ILGU Coaches were able provide one-to-one tuition and take advantage of the use of the Desert Springs short game academy, prior to the players taking their games to The Championship Indiana Course.

 Donald Scott, ILGU Head Coach commented:

“Thank you to Kirk and all the staff for accommodating our team this week, the resort facilties and service were again top class!”

 Danielle McVeigh, ILGU Captain commented:

“5-Star service from all of the staff, extremely well organised and we were really taken care of, many thanks!”

Robbie Cannon, ILGU Strength & Conditioning Coach remarked:

“Superb service all week and we look forward to returning next year, we will just have to stay longer if we can!”

Comments from some of the ILGU International Squad Members respect to their experience of the training camp were;

 “The place is just great, the greens are in fabulous condition with an excellent speed.” Giorgio Carr

 “A stunning golf course with excellent facilities and friendly staff.” Valerie Clancy

 “Great facilities with all of the staff being so friendly and helpful, thank you.” Sara Bryne

 “I had a really great week, thank you.” Annabel Wilson

The players and officials were accommodated in some of the privately-owned villas and apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining each evening in El Torrente Restaurant.

Eighty-six (86) full time students accompanied by sixteen (16) coaches and staff representing; Millfield, Bradfield, Loretto, CT Sports, Reeds, Lancing & Whitgift School, competed in the ‘V Desert Springs & Millfield European Schools Team Championships’ at the Desert Springs Resort between Sunday 11^th to Wednesday 14^th February 2018.

The Team Championship was open to boys and girls of all ages with a maximum handicap of 24 and was held over 3 days (54-Holes). For tournament day one & two the format was 4 Ball-Better-Ball Pairs Stabelford Points. The format for tournament day three was team individual Stableford Points Scores being combined to achieve the Teams accumulative Stableford score.

Rick Valentine, Director of Golf at Loretto Golf Academy based at Scotland’s leading Scottish private boarding school, set in 85 acres of leafy campus just outside Edinburgh that provides an all-round education for just over 600 boys and girls aged 3-18, commented:

 “Another fantastic visit to Desert Springs. All the staff were again first class throughout. The weather this year was just glorious. We are so well looked after, the pupils really do get a feel for playing in a ‘real’ event, they love it! Thank you to everyone at the resort, look forward to seeing you again next year.”

Kevin Cademy-Taylor, Programme Manager at The CT Sports Academy remarked:

 “Overall we had an excellent week. The golf course was in great shape with the greens being particularly very good. The Caddy Masters looked after all our needs with a smile and a professional outlook every day. The Golf Reception were extremely helpful as were all the F&B staff. We will most definitely be returning as this is one of the best organised tournaments of the year for us.”

Karen Nicholls, Millfield School Director of Golf, commented:

 “A fantastic visit once again. We are all made to feel so very special during the week. The feedback received from the pupils has been excellent. Very much looking forward to 2019 and trying to grow the event even more! Thank you to everyone at Desert Springs.”

17-year-old Sophie Caldon with a handicap of 3, from Millfield School remarked:

 “It’ll be sad to say goodbye to everyone here for the last time after four years, but every visit has certainly been something to remember. Thank you for all of your efforts. The course was in good condition as always and everyone made us feel so welcome. What a great experience!”

15-year-old James Gray with a handicap of 6, from CT Sports Academy remarked:

 “I enjoyed my time at Desert Springs so much! The course was in top condition all week and the off course facilities are outstanding. The staff were very helpful when practicing. Hope to be back next year.”

16-year-old Evdokios Demetrios with a handicap of 7, from Loretto School remarked:

 “I so look forward to coming to Desert Springs every year, I feel very lucky to have this experience.”

Neil Kendrick, Whitgift School Head of Cricket and Golf, commented:

 “Another brilliant week at Desert Springs. Everything is so well organised, nothing is left to chance. Look forward to seeing you all in April for our cricket camp, and most definitely we will be back for the Golf Championships again in 2019!”

18-year-old Alfie Fox with a handicap of +2, from Whitgift School remarked:

 “One of the best School trips I ever had, Kirk and his team couldn’t have set it up any better, thank you.”

12-year-old Joe Gould with a handicap of 16, from Reed’s School remarked:

 “It was the best from start to finish! Can’t wait to come back next year!”

The students, coaches and school staff were accommodated in some of the privately owned Apartments, Townhouses and Villas normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in the Crocodile Club and El Torrente Restaurant.

With the domestic cricket season drawing ever closer, Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC) are now stepping up their preparations for the 2018 campaign, having completed the first of two separate four (4) day warm weather training camps at the Desert Springs Cricket Academy.

Between Wednesday 7^th – Sunday 11^th February, Mark Chilton (LCCC Coach) and David Roberts (Lancashire County Cricket Clubs official medical services partner), accompanied nine (9) players who completed bowling, batting and fielding practice as well as strength and conditioning training sessions at Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course with its very own dedicated Cricket Ground and Academy, in the Almanzora region of Almeria, Andalucía in south-east Spain.

LCCC Coach Mark Chilton commented: “Desert Springs has provided us with an excellent 4-days experience. It serves its purpose completely as a training camp venue prior to the English season. The staff and food have been outstanding with service levels received impeccable.”

The training camp worked on a specific and carefully planned programme covering technical skills, strength and conditioning and both individual and group activity. Lancashire CCC players said of their pre-season training experience at the Desert Springs Cricket Academy:

“This is my second visit to Desert Springs, a fantastic facility and all-round resort with perfect weather for this time of year, thank you.” Karl Brown

“Brilliant facilities all round and a great few days training, see you next month for our second visit!” Simon Kerrigan

“It’s great to be back at Desert Springs, everything was top draw!” Tom Bailey

“Fantastic training facilities and perfect for this time of year and the weather was great to!” Liam Hurt

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned villas and apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in El Torrente Restaurant.

Lancashire CCC will be returning to Desert Springs between Wednesday 28^th February – Sunday 04^thMarch 2018 to complete their second pre-season training camp.

Between Sunday 04^th – Friday 09^th February three (3) officials from the Hartpury College Golf Academy accompanied twenty-nine (29) students to complete their 5-day warm weather winter training camp at the Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course, in the Almanzora region of Almeria, Andalucía in south-east Spain.

The training camp utilized the excellent practice facilities at the Desert Springs Golf Academy where the PGA Instructors were able provide one-to-one tuition and take advantage of the use of the Desert Springs short game academy prior to the players embarking on their rounds on The Indiana course.

The players and officials were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining each evening in the ‘The Crocodile Club’ Restaurant.

Student George Bryant-Stroud of the England Regional Squad remarked:

“I can’t get enough of the practice facilities, the chipping green is so good, its perfect for my preparation for the season, thank you for a great week!”

 “I just love coming back to Desert Springs every year, what more can I say!”

 “Great golf course, great facilities and great service, thank you!”

 Those are the verdicts of Adrian Mylrea and Alex Sadler respectively, both 17-year-old full time students from the Hartpury College Golf Academy.

Matt Ellis: Golf Academy Manager & PGA Instructor at the Hartpury College Golf Academy remarked:

 “Another great trip.

The course was excellent as were the practice facilities.

The food was fantastic all week and all of the staff at the resort were most helpful. We really can’t fault our stay.”

Paul Johnson, Level One Tutor at the Hartpury College Golf Academy commented:

“I look forward to the trip to Desert Springs every year and it never disappoints. Great facilities and a golf course that I never get tired of playing and all of the staff were amazing as usual.”

Joanne Cawthorne, P.A to the Performance Director remarked:

“Fantastic facilities, the food was excellent and the welcome we received again was fabulous.”

Eight (8) members of the ECB Pace Programme, accompanied by four (4) Management, staff and coaches are now back in England having completed a successful 5-day training camp between Saturday 9^th – Thursday 14^th December at Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course with its very own dedicated Cricket Ground & Academy.

Kevin Shine, National Lead Pace Bowling Coach remarked of Desert Springs Resort and the training camp;

“This was my first visit to Desert Springs and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect as the Resort is so well known for golf. However, the ECB Pace Programme has just enjoyed one of its most productive weeks so far. The facilities and staff are simply excellent and we couldn’t have been made to feel more welcome. Many thanks to all at Desert Springs, we will most definitely be back!”

 The focus of the training camp was to provide an opportunity for the players to both work seriously on their batting, bowling & fielding skills as well as their fitness levels, through a specific strength and conditioning programme, to ensure that the players are in the best possible shape during their winter programme which includes warm-weather training in South Africa early next year at the High-Performance Institute for Sport at North West University’s Potchefstroom campus. After their return from South Africa, The Pace Programme will be returning to Desert Springs Resort once again from February 27th – March 3^rd, 2018.

 Rob Ahmun, National Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach remarked;

“Many thanks for a fantastic week. The gym facilities have now been taken to a new level, absolutely perfect for an elite training camp.

Ben Langley, National Lead Physiotherapist commented;

 “I can’t think of a better place to come for a week of intensive training. Comfortable accommodation, quality food and great facilities. The service levels at Desert Springs certainly ensure that your experience meets your expectations.”

A few of the players views of their experience at Desert Springs Resort during the training camp were;

Jamie Overton, “Cricket at Desert Springs just gets better and better, really looking forward to seeing the new Oval completed. Thank you for another great visit.”

Jamie Porter, “So good to be training outside in December! The weather was fantastic and the Resort was perfect for everything we required, many thanks to everyone at Desert Springs.”

Reece Topley, “Thank you to all of the staff for looking after us so well. Gorgeous warm weather and great facilities.”

Toby Roland-Jones, “What a beautiful resort with excellent facilities.”

To view the video of the Desert Springs Cricket Academy Click Here

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned Apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players at the award-winning ‘El Torrente’ Restaurant.

Oundle School footballers are now back in England having completed a successful five (5) days of warm weather football and fitness training between Tuesday 2^nd – Sunday 7^th January at Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course with its very own dedicated Football Academy, in the Almanzora region of Almeria, Andalucía in south-east Spain.

Thomas Galbraith (Oundle School Football Coach) along with four members of supporting staff, accompanied twenty-five (25) players who completed strength and conditioning training and football practice and skills sessions as they stepped up their physical preparations for the upcoming season.

Oundle School Tour Leader, Matt King remarked:                                                                                                                    

“A very special few days. A huge thank you to everyone. All of our needs were catered for, with so much understanding and flexibility. The football facilities were outstanding and the food was superb. The students were all treated like adults and made to feel like professional elite athletes, which aides their personal development and character no end.”

Oundle School Football Coach, Thomas Galbraith commented:

“Excellent quality football pitch with great changing room facilities, superb food and accommodation!”

The training camp worked on a specific and carefully planned programme covering technical skills, strength and conditioning and both individual and group activity.

Oundle School football players said of their training experience at the Desert Springs Football Academy:

“Facilities matched in its excellence by accommodation and food, epic resort!” George Elborne

“Excellent footballing facilities, and a great surface. Thanks so much, I had a lovely time here!” George Fordy

“Fantastic facilities, really nice pitch and great under floodlights!”  Freddie Goddard

“Amazing place and surroundings. Great sports facilities.” Jack Krempel

The players and coaches were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining in El Torrente Restaurant.

Between Tuesday 2nd – Saturday 6^th January three (3) officials from the Irish Ladies Golf Union (ILGU) accompanied seven (7) players representing the U18 and U21 International squads to complete the first of two scheduled 4-day warm weather winter training camps at the Desert Springs Resort, Europe’s only international award-winning luxury family resort and championship desert golf course, in the Almanzora region of Almeria, Andalucía in south-east Spain.

The training camp utilised the excellent practice facilities at the Desert Springs Golf Academy, where the ILGU Coaches were able provide one-to-one tuition and take advantage of the use of the Desert Springs short game academy, prior to the players taking their games to The Championship Indiana Course. The players and officials were accommodated in some of the privately-owned apartments normally reserved for holidays and short breaks at Desert Springs and the resort’s executive chef was on hand to cater for the special dietary requirements of individual players dining each evening in El Torrente Restaurant.

“Had another brilliant week, really enjoy coming here, the facilities, course, food and staff are top class!”

That was the verdict of 16-year-old Annabel Wilson, one of the ILGU International Squad members.

Johnny Foster, ILGU Head Coach commented:

“Another wonderful trip, amazing weather, top facilities and superb hospitality as ever.”

Anne Ferguson, ILGU Director of operations commented:

“Super helpful staff made everything so easy, thank you for everything!”

Comments from ILGU International Squad Members respect to their experience of the training camp were;

“Fantastic facilities, food and staff, looking forward to my next visit.” Chole Ryan

“As always we had another amazing trip. The facilities, weather, accommodation and staff were great. Looking forward to next time.” Olivia MeHaffey

“Such a fantastic place, we have loved our visit once again. Great facilities, great food and great staff.” Paula Grant

“This was my third trip here and it keeps getting better!” Jessica Ross

“Another really enjoyable trip to Desert Springs. Top-class facilities and the staff are lovely!” Shannon Burke