Haringey Hawks Head Coach Franck Batimba has been nominated for ITV's 'National Diversity Award' for his work with disadvantaged young people, using basketball as the main tool to making a difference to their lives.
The success on the court speaks for itself, with the London side winning back-to-back National Cup finals, the 2019 London Youth Games and shining on the European stage by winning all of their games at the 2020 EYBL.
But off the court Franck also has his players leading by example. Whether it is volunteering at foodbanks, visiting local schools to offer peer-to-peer mentoring so pupils have 'Positive Role Models' who they can relate to or playing against the local police force to raise money for the community, Franck takes an active role in improving his players both on and off the court.
Franck's efforts and the difference that he makes via Haringey Hawks to young people within the local community hasn’t gone unnoticed. Prior to his latest nomination, he has been recognised by:
- MP David Lammy, who, in 2019 presented Franck with a letter and plaque of acknowledgement on behalf of parliament.
- London Sport awards, winning 2019 Volunteer of The Year
- Haringey Council Sport Awards, winning 2019 Coach of The Year
- The Mayor of Haringey, who in 2019 presented Franck with a letter of thanks for his contribution to the community and hosted a tea party in his honour
- London Youth awards 2019, who shortlisted Franck for volunteer of the year award for his work with Hawks and the young people of Haringey
The National Diversity Awards is a prestigious black-tie event which celebrates the excellent achievements of grass- root communities that tackle the issues in today’s society, giving them recognition for their dedication and hard work.
This year’s ceremony is due to take place at Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral on 25th September 2020.
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