Basketball team a roaring success with backing from the Community Action Fund

The Police and Crime Commissioner stopped by Blacon High School to see how the Community Action Fund has enabled Cheshire Roar – Women’s Basketball Club to engage girls in the growing sport.

Founded in 2020, Cheshire Roar was set up to give young women and girls a sense of direction and purpose through exploring a new sport, and their growing training sessions are creating a real sense of community.

Through the Community Action Fund the club was able to secure the necessary training equipment and venues for practice and games which have enabled them to go from strength to strength, leading to a partnership with local men’s team Cheshire Phoenix. 

Police and Crime Commissioner, John Dwyer, said:

“It was great to visit one of Cheshire Roar’s training sessions to see how the club is growing. Speaking to parents it’s clear that local children are benefiting hugely from the dedication shown by the coaches and I’m proud to have supported them through my Community Action Fund.

“Having these kinds of activities for young people is key to giving people a sense of belonging and creating safer communities as a result. I think it’s particularly important around International Women’s Day to acknowledge how vital it is to give young women and girls a safe space to flourish as well.”

The Commissioner heard from parents and team members about the noticeable physical, mental and social impact that the club has had on attendees. The club has worked with the police and made a concerted effort to organise training and games around the times where young people may be more at risk of crime and anti-social behaviour.

Ludovica Lunigiani, founder of Cheshire Roar said:

“The Community Action Fund has been fundamental for how much the club has grown in the past two years. It has allowed us to focus on the needs of our community by being able to provide a secure venue each week for training, to set a membership fee accessible for everyone, for equipment to play and having a game kit and training clothing to create unity, pride, and a sense of belonging.  

“The aim of Cheshire Roar is to provide a safe space for women and young girls to be themselves while discovering the potential that they can wield, not only in sports but in their lives as well. We couldn’t be more grateful to the Commissioner for believing that Cheshire Roar can make a difference to the community and to each individual involved.”

Cheshire Roar juniors train at Blacon High School every Tuesday from 5:30pm – 6:30pm, followed by the main team at 6:30pm.

For information about Cheshire Roar, get in touch at: 

cheshireroar@outlook.com 

...or find them on Instagram @Cheshireroar or Facebook at ‘Cheshire Roar - Women's basketball club’.

To find out more about the Community Action Fund, see: 

www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/what-the-commissioner-does/community-funding/community-action-fund/

Pictured - Police & Crime Commissioner John Dwyer with Cheshire Roar team members and trainees and Cheshire Phoenix team members.