Sheffield, UK – May 2025
The B. Braun Sheffield Sharks and B. Braun Sheffield Hatters have officially launched a landmark new heritage project with a symbolic time capsule drop and the unveiling of a new heritage display area at the Canon Medical Arena. This initiative—made possible thanks to a generous £167,400 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund—marks the beginning of a two-year mission to celebrate and preserve Sheffield’s rich basketball legacy.
In a powerful tribute to the history of both clubs, time capsules were buried around the Canon Medical Arena last week in a celebration attended by former players, staff, local students, and members of the community. The capsules contain Sharks/Hatters memorabilia and contributions from B. Braun MedicalThe LivingCare Group, Canon Medical Systems Ltd, Oasis Academy Don Valley and UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, capturing the voices of the next generation of fans and athletes.
Dr Chris Low, Chief Executive of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, commented:
“Adding items to the time capsule at Canon Medical Arena is a great way to celebrate our achievements so far and share a snapshot of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park with future generations. We were pleased to include items from Oasis Academy Don Valley and UTC Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park in the capsule, because young people are such an important part of our future so it’s only right they’re part of the story we’re passing on.”
Alongside the time capsules, a new permanent display has been installed in the arena’s main reception, featuring a dedicated trophy cabinet and a large digital screen showcasing historic photos, videos, and milestone moments from both clubs. This physical presence ensures fans and visitors can interact with and reflect on the legacy of the Sharks and Hatters every time they enter the building.
The project, titled “The Hatters and the Sharks: Sheffield's Basketball Pioneers – Celebrating the Stories and Achievements”, is led by the Sheffield Basketball Trust CIC and aims to document, preserve, and share the pivotal stories of both clubs. Through fan interviews, school engagement, exhibitions, community events, and online storytelling, the project will bring to life the impact these clubs have had not only on British basketball, but on Sheffield’s culture and identity.
Canon Medical Arena will also be home to an interactive timeline and immersive installations, allowing visitors to trace the evolution of both teams across the decades—from groundbreaking victories to grassroots development. These displays will grow alongside the project, creating an evolving experience of community pride and sporting excellence.
Mark Hitchman, Managing Director, Canon Medical Systems UK, said:
“It was a pleasure to help support Sharks and Hatters launch their Heritage Project at Canon Medical Arena. We were also delighted to contribute to the time capsule burial ceremony, it was a chance to celebrate the arena and the impact it is having on the local community through health, sports, culture and employment.”
Marko Backovic, Head of Operations at the Sharks, stated:
“We are incredibly proud to launch this project with the time capsule drop and unveiling of our new reception area displays. Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we now have the chance to showcase the stories that made us who we are and create something lasting for fans today and tomorrow.”
Vanessa Ellis, Head Coach of the Hatters, added:
“As the first women’s basketball team in England, our story is one of determination, community, and passion. This project—and the new display space—give us the chance to honour our journey and share it with everyone who walks through the doors of the Canon Medical Arena.”
Helen Featherstone, Director of England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:
“The North of England is home to iconic sporting heritage, and basketball is no exception! Thanks to National Lottery Players we're delighted to support Sheffield Basketball Trust CIC to collect and preserve the pioneering stories of The Sheffield Hatters and The Sheffield Sharks and to share them with a wider audience, safeguarding the stories of these men and women for the future.”
This project is more than a tribute—it’s a living archive that will engage schools, inspire young athletes, and connect communities through the power of sport. Event announcements and ways to get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.
