Northern Knights launch campaign in Raro

The New Zealand Northern Knights will begin their 2011-12 cricket campaign on the white sands beaches of Rarotonga.

The Knights will be on the island for seven days in the middle of October developing game plans, undertaking intense fitness work and focusing on the teams culture during that time.

The period in Rarotonga is an ideal time for our players to sharpen their focus on the upcoming season, said Northern District Cricket CEO David Cooper.

We are very fortunate that our relationship with Cook Islands Cricket has lead to their partner, The Edgewater Resort & Spa, making this trip a reality.

The Edgewater Resort & Spa is now a partner of Northern Districts Cricket and have provided an exceptional opportunity for our players and management to go to the Cook Islands for less than if we ran the equivalent camp at one of our home bases.

Knights head coach Grant Bradburn was thrilled at the prospect of the time in Rarotonga.

It is marvellous that the Edgewater Resort & Spa has allowed us this chance to do something fresh and different. The guys are really excited by the trip and the chance to focus on some really important aspects.

Chris McGeown, CEO of the Edgewater Resort & Spa, welcomed the relationship saying, New Zealand is a key market for us and given our mutual links to Cook Islands Cricket, partnering with Northern Districts Cricket gives great opportunities.

McGeown went on say that the driving force behind this opportunity came from the progressive thinking of Cook Islands Cricket headed by CEO Alister Stevic.

This visit is a shining example of how sporting bodies and business are able to work together to drive increased visitor numbers. Developing the Cook Islands as a sporting event destination is a key growth opportunity in the near future.

The Knights trip will be the first of a number of initiatives over the next twelve months designed to benefit Northern Districts Cricket, The Edgewater Resort & Spa and Cook Islands Cricket.