DFA Sports Reporter Danie van der Lith continues his series that has been introducing the NC Heat Cricket team to our readers – this week, we meet the team’s head coach Mark Charlton
Mark ‘Charlie’ Charlton
41 years old, born in Grahamstown, in the Eastern Cape
What inspired you to pursue a career in cricket coaching? I started coaching at 17 and when I started I knew I was doing what I was meant to do in life
What other sports do you enjoy aside from cricket? Rugby (watching) / fishing / tennis
What do you believe is the most important aspect of your role in contributing to the team’s success? Good relationships with people, trust, care, and being a good person
Are there any specific strategies or techniques you use to help players reach their full potential? Every player is different, I think you need to know people to see what works for them, identify and then move forward
Could you provide insights into your role in the team’s training regimen and preparation for matches? I wouldn’t know where to start, there is so much! We have seven staff members all adding and contributing towards the team being ready, technically, tactically, mentally, medically, logistically and scientifically to get the best out of the players on game day.
Are there any individuals in the cricketing world who have influenced your coaching style? Yes, Rob Walter the Proteas white ball coach was a big influence as well as Grant Morgan who’s a pioneer and one of the cleverest cricket men I know. Grant van Heerden my Academy coach and my school masters Mr Bob Shaw and Mr Peter Brown.
What motivates you the most about being part of this cricket team’s coaching staff? To make a difference in people’s lives, to make a dream a reality! To fundamentally change how people think!
Your biggest sporting hero outside of cricket? I love Rassie Erasmus and how he brought the Springboks together in the last world cup! He changed perception and did what people thought was impossible
Favourite Book? Anything by Jeffrey Archer also love Sport Autobiographies
Favourite series: Peaky Blinders
Hamburger, pizza, or fried chicken? Pizza
Is there a quote that keeps you going when times get tough? The story of Sisyphus*
* Sisyphus, a figure in Greek mythology, is condemned by the gods to eternally roll a heavy boulder up a hill, only to have it roll back down each time he nears the top, symbolising the futility of certain human endeavours.
