A FIRST year student at the University of Worcester has won a top cricket coaching award.

Natasha Maharaj-Newman was named young coach of the year – Sussex, at the Sky Sports Coach Awards 2009, run in conjunction with the English Cricket Board (ECB) Coaching Association.

Natasha has been coaching young cricket players in her home town of Hastings for four years now.

“I got into cricket through my brother and my dad,”

said the 18-year-old.

“My brother used to play for Sussex and my dad is east area community coach for Sussex Cricket Board. I coach Hastings Priory Cricket Club Girls and also Sussex U13 Girls.”

Natasha, who has just started a sports coaching degree at the University of Worcester, was among just three girls nominated at the awards.

“I think cricket is still largely a male-dominated sport, but with the success of England ladies this year more and more girls are now getting in to it,” she said.

“It’s a fantastic sport and there is something for everyone.”

She received her award during a ceremony at Lancashire County Cricket Club in Manchester.

“I was really surprised to win an award, especially because of my age,” she said.

“Most people are usually in their 20s when they get an award because of the experience needed.”

Glyn Harding, senior lecturer in sports coaching science at the University of Worcester, said: “This is an incredible achievement by Natasha and we are extremely proud of her.

“She has proved that she is developing into being an excellent coach and has the potential to excel during her studies here.”