David Townsend – the new PCA Personal Development Manager The Professional Cricketers’ Association have appointed David Townsend as the new Personal Development Manager working with Essex, Kent and Middlesex. Townsend, 49, joins the PCA from Cricket New South Wales where he has worked as Communications Manager since 2008. He has also worked as Media Manager of the Sydney Thunder franchise in the Big Bash League. Townsend replaces former manager Simon Ecclestone, who has left to set up his own business, in the PCA’s six-strong team of PDMs who cover the 18 first class counties plus the MCC Young Cricketers. Townsend played Minor Counties cricket for Devon, his native county, as a middle order batsman and made one List A appearance in a NatWest Trophy match against Derbyshire at Exmouth in 1993. His younger brother Gareth played county cricket for Somerset and Surrey. Having graduated from Loughborough University with a degree in Sports Science and Social Science in 1987, Townsend studied for a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. He taught at Worksop College and then Newington College in Sydney before joining Cricket New South Wales as a development officer for nine years. He spent four years working as Education and Development manager for Cricket NSW before he was appointed Communications Manager, where he worked with the NSW Blues team. In addition, he was Media Manager of the Sydney Thunder in BBL03. ” I am excited about working wih the PCA and being able to use the experience I have gained from my time with New South Wales to assist in the development of the cricketers at the three South East counties,” Townsend said. ” This area is an important one in terms of making sure that all players get the best possible support, both during their career and afterwards, and I hope to be able to build on the great work that has already been done.” Ian Thomas, the PCA’s National Personal Development Manager, said: ” David has gained significant experience of working with state players over this time, several of whom have benefitted from his advice and mentorship whilst transitioning into full Australian sides. He comes highly recommended and with glowing references. ” As the PCA sees continued growth in support and engagement for the Personal Development and Welfare programme across the counties, I’m sure David will make a significant difference to the players within his clubs.” {{ak_sharing}}
