Last academic year, the handball club supported a number of causes that we hold close to our hearts. Obviously this year will be different to any other situation we've gone through, but we thought it would be nice to have a recap of some things we partook in last year, and what we hope we can support again this year.
World Mental Health Day
Last October, the club celebrated World Mental Health Day, by putting our arms a bit closer around one another. Although this year we can't physically hold hands, we are working to help each other through the difficult times in life, and to celebrate all the good that we have. We recognise the benefits of physical activity and being a part of a team, on mental health. It is so very important to all of us that everybody in the club lives their best life, and feels happy, included, and safe. Our Welfare Officer, Michelle, is the point of contact for anybody who feels as though they need to talk about something.
International Day of the Girl & This Girl Can
We support all girls in having equal opportunities in whatever they choose to do in their life, and whatever brings them joy. Nobody should be discriminated against because of their gender or gender identity.
Trans Awareness Week At Warwick Handball Club, we strive to have an open, accessible, and welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable to join us at trainings, socials, and competitions. As a club, we completely stand against any form of transphobia or discrimination towards trans people. It is not acceptable in any circumstance. Unfortunately, however, transphobia is all too common, and far from being eradicated. it is a reality that trans people have to face every day. Sports clubs are not exempt from transphobia. We recognise that joining a gendered sports club can feel intimidating and invalidating to people, and so we have hosted gender-neutral rock-up-and-play sessions, which are open to everybody, regardless of gender identity. We hope to host such sessions again this year.
Pride Week The whole club wears rainbow laces year-round, to show our support for LGBTUA+ Pride, and the members of our community who identify as LGBTUA+. No matter who you are, how you identify, or who you love, we welcome and respect you.
Show Racism the Red Card
At Warwick Handball Club, we fully stand against all forms of racism. We have worn Show Racism the Red Card at matches, to show our support for all those affected by racism.
Raising money for charity
Last year, the handball club sold cakes and organised activities for students, in order to raise money for ICVI, a charity which funds cancer vaccine research.
Charity Challenge across Europe for the NHS
As we should have been in Malta this spring on tour, we decided instead to run/bike/walk our way across the continent via Strava. The whole club banded together to cross as many kilometres as possible, all while raising money for our amazing NHS.
As can be seen, the handball club accomplished a plethora of great things last year, and we hope continue to repeat as much of it as possible this coming year, despite all the challenges we are presented with