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 assistant coach Deon Carolus
Deon ‘Bozzi’ Carolus
45 years old, born in Port Elizabeth
What inspired you to pursue a career in cricket coaching or management? The opportunities the game of cricket has given me, as well as the coaches who inspired me to be a well-rounded individual on and off the field, It is an opportunity to influence and empower future Proteas to be an example for our youth.
What other sports do you enjoy aside from cricket? Football
What do you believe is the most important aspect of your role in contributing to the team’s success? The most important aspect of my role is to provide assistance and support to the team in order to achieve the goals we have set for the season.
Are there any specific strategies or techniques you use to help players reach their full potential? We create match scenarios during practice sessions to prepare for game situations; this helps players develop decision-making abilities under pressure. We provide feedback in a positive manner, focusing on improvement rather than criticism.
Could you provide insights into your role in the team’s training regimen and preparation for matches? Our preparation process leading up to matches includes net practice sessions, physical fitness, video analysis, team meetings, fielding drills, and injury management.
Are there any individuals in the cricketing world who have influenced your coaching or management style? As a sportsman, you cross paths with lots of coaches throughout your career, Every coach that I had the chance to play under had his own individual style, and I have learned a thing or two from all of them. I live by the ‘case’ acronym Copy And Steal Everything. I feel the answers are not just with one coach but with a few; that’s the reason we have LTPD (long-term participant development). Holistic development is taken care of by a few coaches. Andrew Barry, Steven Draai, Russell Domingo, Adrian Birrel, Adri Swanepoel, and Wendell Bossenger, to name a few.
What motivates you the most about being part of this cricket team’s coaching and management staff? I’m motivated by the opportunity to assist and be part of a team that has NC Cricket’s best interests at heart.
Your biggest sporting hero outside of cricket? Steven Gerard
Favourite Book? Gerrard: My Autobiography
Favourite series: Prison Break
Hamburger, pizza, or fried chicken? Fried Chicken
Is there a quote that keeps you going when times get tough? If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room.
