HOME      MATTHEW PRIOR

• Before setting out on the winter programme Matthew had, in his opinion, a balanced life already in place.
• He very much enjoys the friendship of a young lady. He does not smoke but does drink occasionally. His time with the England side has encouraged him to pursue a reasonable dietary programme.
• He has considered in his own mind the potential hazards of life away from home on the County cricket circuit.
• He is not in receipt of income from the County Club and will try and remain an amateur until March 16th 2001.
  Young players can approach the Club for part payment of the contracted salary ahead of the official start. This may be preferable to ease oneself into controlling one's own finances. There is , of course, nothing to stop Matthew undertaking paid work providing it does not conflict with his cricket programme.
  
• WHAT IS HIS SET PROGRAMME ?
• Matthew has 3 Specialist Cricket Sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The work involves repetetive skills acquisition and is very intense to watch. The bowling machine is a great acquisition as it can virtually repeat the same ball time and time again thus grooving the batsman to acquire a more perfect shot. Anticipation has to be under control as you can , without realising it, grow in confidence that the ball is going to pitch in a certain spot.
• Constant chatter pervades the atmosphere and the coach and his young player concentrate intensely.
• A setback occurred when Matthew faced Jason Lewry, one of the opening bowlers at the County Club. Matthew's performance was below his known ability and at the next session Keith discussed with Matthew how best to control his arousal level.
  To the casual onlooker this could be a reference to Matthew's nerves or his determination to succeed. Keith was convinced that Matthew's arousal level was such that it was making him select and execute the incorrect shot to individual balls. The aggression which I had thought would provide Matthew with a positive approach to the game had been revealed as a problem which required toning down.
  
• Matthew has to undertake an 8 hour per week fitness programme which has been devised by Rob Harley, University of Brighton Sports Physiologist. This involves aerobics, weight training, rowing, sprinting and similar power creating activities.
• A further four hours per week must be set aside for one's own personal fitness routine.
  
• Thinking time is also part of his weekly requirement.
  
• He has joined the England and Wales Cricket Board Coaching Course at Great Walstead School tutored by Keith for local coaches in order to gain a qualification. He will then be encouraged to pass on his skill and knowledge to the Junior County squads and to school children throughout Sussex.
  
• It all seems to be going well. Matthew is convinced that he is gaining so much good experience from the concentrated sessions. Keith is positive about forward progress. In less than two months time the reality of a professional contract will begin.
  
• More is planned to enable Matthew to acquire specific life skills which will always be required if he succeeds or fails in his quest. Financial management and computer sessions are in the pipeline.
  
• Matthew obtained sponsorship from Slazenger and can continue to use the company's equipment. However he will soon be kitted out by the County Club and only that clothing may be worn in and around the County Ground.
  
• Obviously there is a lot to learn and the fleeting observations I obtain are most enjoyable and whatever happens to Matthew it is clear that he is gaining valuable experiences which will stay with him throughout life.
  
  
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