Sported Champions Sport for Development at the Lord Mayor of Bradford’s Charity Appeal Cricket Match
The Lord Mayor of Bradford’s Charity Appeal cricket match, hosted at the iconic Bradford Park Avenue Cricket ground, is set for another stellar year, highlighting the transformative power of sport. A key participant in this year’s event is Sported, a UK-based charity dedicated to empowering community groups through sport. This occasion offers an excellent platform for Sported to present their impactful work under the theme of “Sport for Development.”
Sported’s mission is to harness the power of sport to create lasting social change. By supporting over 2,500 community groups, Sported support its members who tackle social issues, promote community cohesion, and improve the physical and mental health of participants. The organisation’s involvement in the Lord Mayor’s Charity Appeal cricket match underscores the vital role sport plays in fostering positive community outcomes.
Lord Mayor of Bradford Cllr Bev Mullaney said: “I am delighted that this cricket event will be raising funds for my appeal and also raising the importance of sport as a power for good. Sport can have a huge impact on people’s lives and local communities and this cricket match will be helping to raise vital funds and show that sport can shape lives.”
Humayun Islam BEM, CEO of Muslim Friendly Employers, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaborative effort: “We are delighted to be supporting the Lord Mayor’s Charity Appeal. And to collaborate with some great partners such as Sported, Sport Campaign Against Racism, Yorkshire Cricket Foundation amongst others is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the importance of Sport for Good.”
The event brings together various stakeholders committed to the cause of Sport for Development. The Sport Campaign Against Racism, represented by its Director, Faisel Ali, echoes this sentiment: “We are thrilled to be hosting this event and excited at the prospect of using the power of sport to bring people together and discuss how sport & physical activity can make a positive difference to people’s lives.”
The Yorkshire Cricket Foundation, another prominent participant, leverages cricket to drive social impact across Yorkshire. Sohail Raz, Diverse Communities Manager at the foundation, highlighted the synergy between the organizations: “Here at the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation we use the power of sport to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those living in Yorkshire. As such we are delighted to collaborate with Sported to showcase the good work of the Foundation.”
This cricket match not only promises an exciting sporting spectacle but also serves as a powerful reminder of how sport can be a catalyst for social change. By bringing together like-minded organizations and community leaders, the event aims to inspire ongoing efforts to use sport as a tool for development and inclusion.
Sported’s presentation will focus on their innovative programs and success stories, illustrating how sport can break down barriers and build stronger communities. Attendees will gain insights into how they can contribute to and benefit from similar initiatives, fostering a collective commitment to using sport for good.
As the cricket match unfolds at the Bradford Park Avenue Cricket Club, it will undoubtedly reinforce the message that sport transcends competition. It has the potential to unite diverse groups, promote understanding, and drive meaningful social progress.
