I was sat in a sub-group, committeee meeting for the Volleyball England Foundation and was inspired to plan an Event.  Our World in 2020 has been turned upside down with the pandemic of  coronavirus (Covid 19).  Of course, we religiously clap for the front-line workers, the NHS, who put their lives on the line day-in, day-out, for the health of the Nation.  To that end it is only correct that the first beneficiary should be Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Charitable Fund (Critical Care Unit – and also Tree House Paediatric Unit [Registered charity number 1048661]).

As well as families and lives being decimated by the virus – individuals and communities nationwide have felt isolated and in fear of lockdown, as they anxiously await for some kind of normality to resume.  Volleyball clubs thoughout the Country have naturally ceased all activities, and we have witnessed the social-exclusion and damage to health and welfare, when for some volleyball is their escape and only social interaction in daily lives and routines.  The landscape has suggested that some clubs may never return from this challenge, as it was both unexpected and unprecedented for any organisation.  Thus, Volleyball England Foundation [Registered charity number 1138864] is the second beneficary.

Finally, continuing the theme of keeping it local, we have selected our very own, not for profit enterprise, Stockport Volleyball Club as a recipient of an equal share of any funds.  It is one of the fastest growing clubs in the Country, uses four venues throughout the Borough, bringing exercise and recreation to children and adults of all ability, people of varying genders, ages and ethic origin.  A phenomenal ‘vehicle’ for bringing joy and structure in lives in Stockport and Manchester.

The monies raised are through Adrian Stores and Kaya Stores embarking on a forty mile commitment (20 miles each) in May 2020.  Neither are cyclists, so this ‘My Corona Challenge’ really is that, a challenge!

The route is topical and embraces a start at Cheadle Hulme School where our National Volleyball League (NVL) Men and Women train. From their we travel to The Seashell Trust.  The locality where Stockport Volleyball all started in 2015, and still home to our comunity adults and juniors.  A bit of a trek follows to Edgeley Park (Home of Stockport County), a logical stop given its pivotal position as the main sporting venue in the Borough.  The challenge reaches its peak, at least in height, with an ascent up to 475 feet to Life Leisure’s Brinnington Park Leisure Comples, where our NVL and Local League Teams compete.

Then on the homeward-straight via the ‘real heroes’, Stepping Hill Hospital, before comleting the circuit where we started.

All proceeds, 100%, will be forwarded to the three beneficaries without any deduction for administration or transaction fees.  Do please remember every little really does help.  I thank you in anticipation.