Big news from ICM. We’ve just stepped up to the crease and have launched an exciting new project in partnership with the YMCA on Norwich Road, Ipswich, and we can’t wait to tell you all about it.
Meet the Blue Tigers
Every Wednesday evening, a group of 18 unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people from Afghanistan come together to train, practice, and develop their cricket skills. These are talented, passionate players, and with our coaching sessions, they’re forming a team that will soon take on local clubs, including Ipswich School, in competitive matches this spring.
But this is about more than just cricket. The Blue Tigers Project is all about building confidence, connections, and a sense of belonging.
Being an unaccompanied asylum seeker from Afghanistan means arriving in a new country without family or support networks, often after experiencing conflict, displacement, and long, dangerous journeys. Many have faced loss, uncertainty, and immense challenges adapting to a completely new culture and language, circumstances entirely beyond their control. They must navigate a complex asylum system, build a new life from scratch, and find ways to integrate while carrying the weight of their past experiences.
We hope our Blue Tigers project offers more than just sport. We hope to provide stability, structure, and a sense of belonging, we want to give the young people a space where they can thrive, make friends, develop new skills and feel part of the community.
ICM Project Manager Helen Aldcroft says:
"The Blue Tigers cricket project, in partnership with the YMCA, is a testament to the power of sport in bringing young people together, building confidence, and opening doors to new opportunities. At ICM, we believe that cricket and fitness are more than just activities—they’re tools for connection, empowerment, and creating a sense of belonging. Working alongside the YMCA allows us to support these brilliant young people in developing skills, friendships, and futures filled with possibility."
Lights, Camera, Cricket
To capture this journey, the young people will be working with Ric from Greyhound Creative.
We’re creating a mini documentary following these young players as they train, sharing their stories, and preparing for their big match. Over the past few weeks, we’ve been filming training sessions, chatting to the players about their love for cricket, and getting ready to showcase their incredible journey.
When the warmer weather arrives, we’ll be filming a friendly match against Ipswich School’s cricket team, bringing all their hard work to life.
Not only are the young people learning technical skills in videography, editing, storytelling, and interviewing, but the final film will be screened at a special event at the end of the project. This will give them a platform to share their experiences, achievements, and creative voices with the wider community, building their confidence, communication, and teamwork skills along the way.
Support the Blue Tigers – Can You Help Us Raise £1000 for Kit?
Right now, we’re fundraising to buy proper cricket kits for the team so they can step onto the pitch with confidence. Thanks to the amazing support of Coes, who have kindly offered us a discount, we’re getting closer to our goal.
But we still need £1000 to make it happen. Here’s how you can help:
Donate to our JustGiving page* – Every little helps! *Just mention you're supporting the Blue Tiger when you donate.
Are you a local business?
Sponsor the kit for £1000 and get featured in our video! As a sponsor, you’ll receive:
✅ Your logo featured in our film – Gain visibility in our production.
✅ Shoutout on our social media – We’ll share your business with our thousands of followers.
✅ Showcasing the work you do – We’ll highlight your contributions and impact.
✅ Business listing in the video – Your name or brand will be included in the final production.
Supporting a project like this isn’t just about sponsorship, it’s about real, visible impact. As a local business, your sponsorship shows your commitment to community, inclusion, and opportunity, aligning your brand with a cause that changes lives. It’s a chance to be seen as a champion for young people, to connect with a wider audience, and to make a lasting difference where it matters most.
Why This Project Matters
The Blue Tigers isn’t just about sport – it’s about skills, confidence, and future opportunities.
Through cricket and media, these young people are:
✔ Learning teamwork, discipline, and leadership
✔ Developing digital and creative skills through the film project
✔ Improving health and wellbeing
✔ Building friendships and local networks
✔ Gaining valuable experience that supports employability and language skills
This project is a Making Waves and Emulate collaboration and made possible thanks to the support of NCS Trust and Suffolk Community Foundation, Serious Violence Fund and we’re incredibly grateful for their funding.
Want to get involved, donate, or sponsor the kit?
Drop us a message at bmiller@ipswichcm.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
Let’s make this season one to remember for the Blue Tigers!
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