Cricket is a

piece of home.

A free after-school and summer cricket program for refugee, immigrant, and local youth in Spokane — built in partnership with Manzanita House, LaunchNW, INNOVIA, and Spokane Public Schools.

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Youth across the world are wild about cricket.

When they move to Spokane, they bring that passion with them.

The Spokane Cricket Academy develops excellent cricketers.
Middle- and high-school students gain skill at batting, confidence in bowling, endurance for fielding. Youth discover resilience and grit.
They work out team dynamics. And amid the disorientation of resettlement, they practice belonging, and even hospitality.

These kids are making Spokane a home... a better home for everyone here.

Players of all backgrounds and skill levels are invited to join at no financial cost.

Cricket for refugee youth: Watch the video

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Mission

To give refugee, immigrant, and local youth in Spokane a welcoming path into the game of cricket and the sense of belonging that comes with it.

Vision

A Spokane where cricket belongs to every community. Where refugee, immigrant, and local players compete as neighbors, not rivals. Where youth play hard and work hard in ways that fit their culture and passions.

Partners

Manzanita House: Supports refugee and immigrant families across Spokane.
Launch NW: Supports student engagement and out-of-school opportunities.
Innovia: Funded cricket equipment through Manzanita House.
City of Spokane: Makes the Underhill Park pitch available each season.

Expect to find...

Belonging over barriers

No cost, no experience required — every kid and youth who wants to play is welcome.

The spirit of Melmastia: Afghan hospitality without condition.

Sportsmanship over rivalry

Players arrive carrying different rivalries and mindsets from back home — practice is where that gets set down.

From the Thirukkural: "the joy of vengeance lasts a day; the fame of forbearance lasts forever."

Built by community

A volunteer coach, senior players who mentor, and partners who believe every kid offers something valuable to Spokane.

The spirit of the Tamil verse: "every town is our own, every person our kin."

A real pathway

From first practice to NWCL competition — a visible next step for every player who wants one.

The spirit of Mudita: joy in someone else's growth.

"Back in Afghanistan we used to play, and nobody else offers this, so it's just a cool opportunity to be here."

Cricket participant

"Now, as refugees in Spokane, they’re reconnecting with the sport they love."

- Spokane Public Schools

"Through Cricket Club, they’re learning teamwork, building confidence, strengthening relationships — and having a ‘wicket’ good time!"