Huge milestone for Devon women's cricket as state college launches region's first academy
Exeter College has launched Devon's first Women's Cricket Academy based at a state college, giving young female cricketers in Devon and Cornwall access to professional-standard training and a performance pathway outside of independent school settings for the first time, with trials taking place in Cullompton on 30 April 2026.
Exeter College has launched Devon's first women's cricket academy based at a state college, offering talented young female cricketers access to professional-standard training for the first time outside of a fee-paying setting.
Until now, high-level cricket academies for young women in the region have largely been the preserve of independent schools. The new programme aims to change that by giving club-level players a clear pathway into performance cricket alongside their academic studies.
Tammi Vukusic, the academy lead, said: "Academy opportunities have largely only been available in fee-paying settings. We're committed to ensuring talented players outside of these settings in our region can develop their skills without barriers."
The launch comes as women's cricket experiences significant national growth, with the number of women's teams across England rising by 18 per cent in 2025 and the number of clubs offering girls' cricket up 13 per cent.
Academy players will train twice a week with experienced coaches at a purpose-built indoor facility in Cullompton and at the University of Exeter.
Fixtures are lined up against King's College Taunton, Exeter University and Exeter Cricket Club, and players will also benefit from a behind-the-scenes visit to Somerset County Cricket Club and a five-day end-of-season tour to Guernsey in June.
To help cover the cost of the Guernsey tour, the college is seeking sponsorship from local businesses, community partners and cricket organisations to invest directly in the future of women’s cricket in the region.
Player Lily Innes said the academy represents something bigger for the women's game.
"Opportunities for women in cricket have risen significantly since I first started playing, therefore it’s extremely exciting that Exeter College is investing in the women’s game.”
Trials take place on Thursday 30 April at Buzz About Cricket's indoor facility in Cullompton.
Students wishing to join the academy in September are also encouraged to register their interest now via the Exeter College website or email here.