Former Kingsbridge College student Harry Bignell helped the England Lions Dodgeball Team achieve three titles in the recent North European Dodgeball Championships; an important stepping stone to the team’s World Cup ambitions later this year.
Harry competed in the women’s and mixed competitions where both teams remained undefeated across the weekend. England men’s team suffered a setback, losing to the Scottish side, before clinching a convincing win over Northern Ireland to earn them the gold.
These victories represent an exciting step for the squad in their preparation for the 2018 Dodgeball World Cup, which is being held in Madison Square Gardens, New York, in August.
Harry said: “There’s a lot of work to be done between now and New York, but these victories show what a strong side England is. I am confident that with the backing of our coaches and support staff, as well as the dedication of each squad member, we are going to do ourselves and England proud this summer.
“I began playing dodgeball for Warwick Warriors University Dodgeball team in my first year of university and have now been playing for six years. The reason the sport appealed so much is that it attracts a lot of people who enjoy being active but don’t take themselves too seriously – it’s a really fun sport to be a part of.
“There’s considerable scope for improvement and progression and, as the sport gains more credibility and notoriety, increasing opportunities to travel and meet the global dodgeball community.
“Since leaving university I’ve moved to London and now play for London Storm who have three teams in the premier league and two in national league.
“Many of my old friends from Warwick made the same move so I’ve been able to continue playing in a team of some of my best friends. I am 24 and currently finishing a Masters in development studies while working part time for the Brooke, a charity who work with working equine owning communities overseas to improve care and conditions for the animals.”
Dodgeball is still in its relative infancy, meaning players are self-funded. Local business Endurance Life are providing sponsorship to help Harry get to World Cup this summer.
Jordan from Endurance Life said: “It’s fantastic to see any young person pushing themselves to achieve in sport or any discipline.
“Harry took the initiative to raise the money needed to get to New York which I’m sure was a daunting prospect! We feel this is worthy of a little recognition and are pleased to be sponsoring her. Good luck to the England squad from all at Endurance Life!”
This weekend’s North European Championships saw England take on France, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Sweden and Wales. The World Cup will see teams from all over the globe compete, including America, Australia, Malaysia and Hong Kong.
The England men’s and mixed teams will fight to retain their 2016 title. The women’s side achieved bronze in 2016 and will be fighting to take the title this year.
If any local business and wants to support Harry on the road to New York, email h.bignell@hotmail.
co.uk. You can also follow the squad’s progress on social media.