Cricket set for inclusion

Press, 24 January 1986, Page 20

Cricket set for inclusion

Australia’s controversial multi-million dollar Institute of Sport will include cricket on its books by the end of the year. After Australia’s thumping World Series Cup win over India on Tuesday night, people might argue cricket does not need to turn to the A.I.S.

However, the New Zealand cricket manager, Glenn Turner, the executive director for the University of Otago’s sports complex, was interested to learn of cricket’s acceptance. He made a thorough tour of the institute, his second in three years.

Turner said he was impressed with parts of the institute but believed it was hardly being used to its potential. “They have got this massive set up which

shaild be teeming with pecple yet the place is haF empty,” he said. Turner was amazed to learn the A.I.S. employed 151 staff and its budget this year was sAustl4M. The A.LS. has huge spirting science resources ani equipment on its cahpus concentrating on Olrmpic events such as swimming, track and Heid, weightlifting and gymnastics. Only last ye'ar accommodation for elite young athletes many of whom apply for a 48 week' sctolarship course, increased to 352. New Zealand’s national development inquiry headed by Sir Ron Scott lad year recommended increased personnel ra her than copy Australia with a swept up centre thit cost the earth.

The Government inquiry suggested Lotto to inject sufficient funds for coaches and administration staff. If Lotto loses the vote, the report will gather dust on the shelves of the Minister of Recreation and . Sport, Mr Mike Moore. Australia has overcome the funding with breathtaking government support. Envy was now the toughest hurdle facing the A.I.S. in its attempt to produce future champions, the A.I.S. executive director, Dr John Cheffers, said. The institute was suffering from a tall poppy syndrome, he said, and could jeopardise Australia’s chances at the Edinburgh Games, only seven months away. “We are tall poppies

and can not be ignored,” he said. “The A.I.S. is not a vulture waiting to gobble up other people’s performances. “We want to give kids the chance to be as good as they can.”

The A.I.S. celebrates its fifth birthday on Australia Day, January 27, but coaches and athletes not involved were jealous of the big concept. Australians are seeking to discover a sports superstar to push Australia to the lead in the race for international sporting supremacy.

“What we are getting here now is a corporate athlete who is the product of much input from many different directions. No one can keep up nowadays as a weekend athlete.”

Kip Brook, NZPA