Harry Turner Wins Volunteer of Year Award

DBL Sharks Sheffield Basketball Club are proud to announce that our very own Harry Turner has become the recipient of the prestigious Sheila Hopkins Community Volunteer of Year Award by the British Basketball League.

Harry, who has been volunteering with the Sharks since September 2018, is classed as Autistic and non-verbal and has had a significant impact on his life so far. With both social and emotional impact on his life, Harry has seen this role positively affect his school activity as well as markedly change his everyday life.

Harry’s role sees him assist with set-up and break-down and includes helping with the TV production crew during the game.

Well known within the Sharks family, both with club staff, players and indeed fans, despite the severe difficulties of being non-verbal Harry has found a way to communicate and grow as part of the Sharks team. In doing so, Harry’s confidence has soared over the last few months, his parents and school have been overwhelmed by the difference in his character since taking up his volunteer role.  Having increasing confidence has lead to additional support and he is now helping to deliver the Sharks community programmes working with schools and club sponsors in the area.

DBL Sharks Chairman, Yuri Matischen said “Harry has been an integral part of our volunteer events team since the start of the season. He has made so much progress and we would like to thank Harry, his family, and his school for the commitment they have shown. From a Sharks point of view, it shows the commitment we have to diversity and we welcome people from all backgrounds.”

Harry commented that “I’m really happy to receive this award, it is very unexpected. I’d like to thank the Sharks staff and volunteers, and my family and school for all their support.”

The DBL Sharks Sheffield and the British Basketball League would like to congratulate Harry on his award, which will be presented to him at the benecos BBL Playoff Final at the O2 Arena in London on Sunday 19^th May.

The DBL Sharks play their final fixture at the EIS – Sheffield this Thursday 9th May at 7:30pm. Click the image below for more info: