Wingfield Digby refreshes link to support Professional Cricketers – 22/07/2009 For many years, Anglican Minister, Rev. Andrew Wingfield Digby, acted as spiritual adviser to the England cricket team, and was regularly available on the County circuit. Andrew was then Director of Christians in Sport (CiS) and is now the Vicar of a church in Oxford. Former Leicestershire player, Nick Ferraby, is working for CiS in a similar role to the one Andrew held. Andrew, at the invitation of the PCA, has made himself available for personal, confidential conversations with players and Nick, who is on the road most days, is also available to see people if they wish. Reflecting on his time with the England set-up, Andrew recalls many occasions when players needed a private conversation concerning things as wide-ranging as relationship problems, loss of form, fear of injury and identity issues especially as careers draw to a conclusion. He was often offering prayer support either with or for players. This may seem strange to some but because Andrew has been a cricketer himself and as Nick is a recent pro, players may rest assured that they approach the issues with an understanding of, and sympathy with, the life of a professional cricketer. The PCA’s Assistant CEO, Jason Ratcliffe, comments, "We feel this service will be a useful addition to our already comprehensive Personal Development Programme, and certainly endorse the work Christians in Sport can offer and have offered to professional cricketers over the years. Personal development is a huge area of focus for professional cricketers past, present and future. In an ever changing cricketing landscape, our work in this area will help players to cope with the modern day workloads, enhance themselves as people, improve performances and help prepare them for life when professional sport eventually ends." Ex Nottinghamshire stalwart and now coach, Paul Johnson, believes, "The life of a professional cricketer is both a privilege and at times tough and insecure. Having a sympathetic but external person to talk to about the big stuff in life can be a great help." Allan Knott added, "When I played for Kent and England and later was involved in the England coaching team it was always an encouragement to me personally when Andrew dropped in at matches or practice days. It enabled me to receive great encouragement in my own Christian life and led to some informative and occasionally highly amusing conversations in the dressing room". The PCA already offers support through its heralded Performance Lifestyle programme – a joint ECB/PCA initiative and a Confidential Helpline to all its members. The refreshed link with CiS will now provide further support if and when required. Jason Ratcliffe stated, "We’re glad to have CiS back involved. Andrew certainly had a major involvement that many players benefited from and this will prove to be another effective support system for our members should the need arise." For full details of the PCA Personal Development Programme, including contacts for support systems of other faiths, please click here.
