'Help save our team' - Sheffield Hatters launch Crowdfunder scheme in bid to maintain WBBL status

The club revealed in July that they cannot afford to play the 2020/21 season.

They hope to raise £10,000 through the Crowdfunder.

A club statememt said: “The WBBL (Women’s British Basketball League) 2021 season is due to start at the end of October, but it may well be without the Sheffield Hatters, one of it's founding members, and the first ever women’s basketball club in England.

"2021 will see the Hatters reach their 60th year and it may well be the first time in its long, illustrious history that the club will not be competing at the top level of the women’s game.

"Hatters is the most successful club in British women’s team sports having won almost 70 National Titles since its first trophy in 1989. It has played twice in European competitions and has produced numerous international players at all age groups from under 15 to 50+.

"The club has always been self-funded and run by a number of wonderful unpaid volunteers.

"It has one of the most successful junior programmes in the country, with girls’ teams ranging from U10 to U18. It has received accolades for its work in the community and has developed some of the best and most successful female coaches in basketball.

"Being part of the Hatters family has not only provided opportunities in sport but also helped girls develop confidence, self-esteem and aspire to a better future.

"However, the last few years have been a real struggle financially and Covid-19 has made it even more difficult for the survival of its WBBL team.”

Richard Caborn, former Minister of Sport, said: "The Hatters have been a major influence over the years in attracting hundreds of girls and women into sport in Sheffield and have become an extremely successful club in the world of basketball. They are run by some very enthusiastic volunteers however it is still extremely expensive to maintain a sport at this level. Anyone who can help support and sponsor in any way would be hugely welcome.”

Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/help-save-our-wbbl-team to make a donation.