Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park has been recognised by the Minister for Sport as a leading example of how sport and physical activity can be a powerful force for positive change, contributing to the achievement of the missions at the heart of the UK Government’s agenda.
Attending a recent event to celebrate South Yorkshire’s success in the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics and 2023 Special Olympics, Stephanie Peacock MP, the Minister for Sport, praised the Park: “It was a privilege to visit Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park and see how it directly aligns with four missions of the UK Government – health, economic growth, opportunity, and crime prevention.
“It’s inspiring to see how the Park embodies the Olympic legacy through helping cancer patients stay active; driving inward investment; creating world-class opportunities for young people; and using sport to tackle social challenges to make communities stronger, healthier, and more connected.”
The Minister met Sheffield Sharks Directors, Yuri Matischen, Sarah Backovic and Atiba Lyons, who explained how sport is a driver of inward investment into Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park. Canon Medical Systems has invested £15 million into a community arena with multi-purpose sports facilities and integrated community diagnostic centre. The arena is the home of B. Braun Sheffield Sharks and Hatters basketball teams and Sheffield Steel netball team. Since being based in the arena, the Sharks and Hatters have attracted international investment from an American venture capitalist.
Yuri also highlighted how the Park is providing exceptional educational opportunities: “We have worked closely with the University Technical College based on the Park to create a successful Basketball Academy that offers Year 12 students the chance to unlock their basketball potential while pursuing their academic studies.
“We also use sport as a tool to promote positive behaviour through the Sheffield Sharks ‘RESPECT TOO’ programme which is designed to engage vulnerable young people who are at risk of anti-social behaviour and child criminal exploitation.”
Dr Chris Low, Chief Executive of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, said: “The Minister clearly shares our belief in the power of sport to change lives through supporting healthier lifestyles, economic growth, educational opportunities, and crime prevention.
“Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park is a prime example of how sport can be a force for good, with its impact stretching far beyond the playing field to create a healthier, more prosperous, and more inclusive community.”
Left to right: Councillor Tom Hunt, Sheffield City Council, Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Sport, Yuri Matischen, Sheffield Sharks, Dr Chris Low, Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, Kate Josephs, Sheffield City Council
