Manchester Lynx win £5,000 from Babybel Summer of Sport competition

Manchester Lynx, the only women's LGBTQIA+ basketball team in the North of England, have been announced as the winners of Babybel’s Summer of Sport competition, securing kit and funding of £5,000.

The basketball team were recognised for their outstanding commitment to inclusivity, fostering community spirit and encouraging active lifestyles. 

The Summer of Sport competition was launched by Babybel and TV star Mark Wright in support of grassroots sports and the competition saw a fantastic response, with clubs from 31 different sports entering, showcasing the UK’s rich diversity and passion for sport, with a total of 392 entries.

Georgia Tsakiri, Chair of Manchester Lynx said:

"Manchester Lynx Women's Basketball Club is the only women's LGBTQIA+ basketball team in the North of England. We are a very diverse and inclusive club and pride ourselves in offering basketball opportunities to all.

"We offer women a safe space to learn and develop their skills in a sport that is otherwise largely male-dominated.

"We are absolutely thrilled to have won the top prize sponsorship and kit from Babybel’s Summer of Sport competition, as this will help towards funding our new beginners and development sessions aimed at building confidence and encouraging women from our area to try out basketball!

"Plus, the new custom kit will give a boost to the team as we enter the new season in the Manchester Area Basketball League (MABL)."

Nick Holloway, Basketball England's Club & Volunteers Development Manager, added: 

"I want to offer huge congratulations to Manchester Lynx for winning this competition and for securing a sum of funding that is sure to make a real difference to all who are a part of the club.

"Their work exemplifies the efforts that go on across the country in some many different clubs to use basketball as a vehicle for social change, mental support and improving overall wellbeing.

"I am sure their new beginners and development sessions will be a huge success, and I wish them the very best for their upcoming season."

A spokesperson from Babybel said:

“Babybel’s Summer of Sport campaign has seen an incredible response in encouraging community sporting activity, bringing families together to celebrate sports, healthy snacking, and encouraging people to get out of their comfort zones.

"As the nation’s favourite cheese snack, we are committed to promoting well-being and active lifestyles.”

.

.