IC (International Cricketers) Pathway Academy was originally founded by passionate cricket enthusiast and entrepreneur Lili Stephenson.
Originally created so American cricketers could train and play internationally, it has become an academy for cricketers in Australia as well.
IC Pathway Academy’s first session was held in Canberra, July 2019 when Coaching Director, Ben Ryan coached his first 2 students: Two of Lily’s American children – Rebekah Stephenson, then 13 and Nicholas Stephenson, then 14. The Academy grew steadily over the next 2 years before relocating to Melbourne in June 2021, coaching all ages (8 to 60!) abilities and genders.
The Academy continues under the direction of Ben, who has over a combined 40+ years experience as a player, coach and administrator. Ben holds a Cricket Australia Level 2 (Representative Coaching) certification.
His coaching experience began way back in 1991 when he was Head Coach of the Preston CC Under 14 in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association Hatch Shield pathway competition.
He is the former Head Coach of Camberwell Magpies CC in Victorian Premier Cricket in 2021/2022 and Preston CC in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association in 2023/2024.
Ben currently coaches in the Cricket Victoria Pathway Dowling Shield and Premier Under 18 competitions for the Camberwell Magpies. He also coaches in the Camberwell Grammar and Caulfield Grammar School Cricket Programs.
Nick and Rebekah Stephenson have said of Ben, “he really tries to be in your shoes. He sees things from your point of view and understands where you’re coming from, then he builds you from where you are.”
