Chris Woakes

Chris Woakes is one of the leading all-rounders on the county cricket circuit and is an England international.

The Birmingham born star started playing cricket at the age of 7 at Aston Manor Cricket Club and then moved to Walmley Cricket Club at the age of 14. By the age of 18 he had played for Herefordshire as well as Warwickshire 2XI.

Chris made his mark at Warwickshire where he became a regular for the First XI in 2008. He topped Warwickshire's bowling averages by taking 42 wickets at an average of 20.57 for the course of the County championship season.

In 2009 he was selected to play for the England Lions and made his International England Twenty20 debut on 12 January 2011 against Australia. Chris scored the winning runs as England won off the last ball with just one wicket left and one run required.

Chris is a dedicated young sportsman and a true professional. Not many people know that he was offered schoolboy terms at Walsall FC and turned it down to focus on cricket!

Chris is a genuine inspiration to many children and young people.

The Chris Woakes Cricket Academy has been a popular addition to our school holiday Active Camps during the summer months and you'll often find him on hand offering advice and signing autographs. And when time permits, the England all-rounder supports our charitable events for the Aspire to Africa project.

Chris has a bright future ahead of him and we are proud to have him as one of our Ambassadors.

"I am proud to support Aspire Sports and the fantastic work they carry out. Their approach is unique and time and time againI've been impressed with everything they do. The staff work hard to ensure each child is not only having fun, but continually learning new skills. Aspire Sports are a truly inspirational company and I am proud to be one of their ambassadors."