University Arena up for Guardian award - The Worcester Observer

University Arena up for Guardian award

Worcester Editorial 3rd Mar, 2015 Updated: 19th Oct, 2016   0

THE UNIVERSITY of Worcester Arena has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.

The home of Worcester Wolves is one of three nominations in the Buildings that Inspire category – one of 15 awards which will be given out at this month’s annual ceremony, which recognises and showcases the very best work being undertaken in the higher education sector.

The Buildings that Inspire award was open to entries from universities across the country, and aims to find the projects that have ‘positively enhanced the student and/or staff experience on campus, whether through a new build or a redevelopment’.

Since opening in 2013, the University of Worcester Arena – the country’s first indoor sporting venue designed specifically to meet the needs of wheelchair athletes – has provided a hub at which University, community and inclusivity could thrive, and cemented Worcester’s position at the forefront of inclusive sport in this country.




International netball, basketball and wheelchair basketball fixtures, along with national championships in badminton and taekwondo, have been staged at the venue, which is also home to the Worcester Wolves.

The University Arena is the training base for Great Britain’s wheelchair basketball teams and, later this year, will host the sport’s European Championships.


As well as attracting elite athletes and high profile international fixtures, the venue has also acted as a base at which students and countless school, disability and community groups have been able to thrive.

Mick Donovan, head of the University’s Institute of Sport and Exercise Science, said: “We are thrilled that the University Arena has been recognised in this way.

“The transformation of a formerly derelict site into a truly world-class sporting arena is something which the University is rightfully proud of.

“The University has always had a strong focus in inclusive sport, and we are delighted that the University Arena has been able to build on this success, removing the barriers to sport participation and offering elite athletes, community members and students the chance to develop their love and passion for sport.”

The ceremony takes place in London on March 18.

 

 

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Worcester Observer newspaper.

Public Notices

View and download all of the public notices in the Worcester Observer.

Advertising

Advertise with the Worcester Observer to reach your audience

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Worcester Observer.