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Connect It And Hampshire Cricket Make A Dream Come True For Young Cricket Fan
Connect It Utility Services And Hampshire Cricket Make A Dream Come True For Young Cricket Fan
A young cricket superfan enjoyed the experience of a lifetime at Utilita Bowl last week, thanks to a new community initiative launched by Connect It Utility Services in partnership with Hampshire Cricket
A young cricket superfan enjoyed the experience of a lifetime at Utilita Bowl last week, thanks to a new community initiative launched by Connect It Utility Services in partnership with Hampshire Cricket.
Thirteen-year-old Theo, a devoted fan of the sport, was given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in a matchday experience through a special programme created to celebrate and support young people facing personal challenges.
Theo, who is autistic and has found busy public events difficult in the past, was the first participant in the new experience which was carefully curated to make him feel both comfortable and celebrated.
Ahead of the Hampshire Hawks' Vitality Blast fixture, Theo was treated to a private coaching session with professional all-rounder Benny Howell, before joining the players on the pitch for the coin toss.
He was also presented with a goodie bag that included a signed T20 Hawks shirt. To ensure Theo and his family could enjoy the match in comfort, they were given access to a dedicated space in a hospitality suite, providing a quiet area away from the crowds.
This unique experience was made possible by Connect It’s decision to use its corporate partner privileges with Hampshire Cricket for a community-focused purpose.
The company is contracted to a player appearance each year, typically used for staff or client engagement, but this year Connect It chose to use this benefit to create a special experience for Theo instead.
The signed Hawks shirt came from Connect It’s own merchandise allocation, and the hospitality was fully gifted by the company as part of their commitment to giving back to the community.
It is believed that this is the first time a Hampshire Cricket partner has chosen to use their corporate privileges in this way, highlighting the growing importance of community initiatives within sport and business partnerships.
The story of Theo’s day has been captured in a short video feature, released today. Connect It hope to expand the programme in future, giving other young people like Theo the opportunity to shine through sport, community, and connection.
We’re incredibly proud to support this special day for Theo. By using our partner privileges in this way, we wanted to highlight the power of cricket to bring people together and create moments of pure joy. We’re grateful to Hampshire Cricket and Utilita Bowl for working with us to create such a memorable experience.
Laban Giles, Managing Director, Connect It Utility Services
It’s been a privilege to welcome Theo and his family to Utilita Bowl. We hope this day shows just how inclusive and uplifting the sport of cricket can be, and we’re grateful to Connect It for making it possible.
Rob Paddon, Commercial Director, Hampshire Cricket and Utilita Bowl
Theo had a really fantastic day, and he absolutely loved being a part of such an exciting event. Cricket is a huge passion of his, and it was truly special for the whole family to see him not just watching, but actively involved in the matchday. Everyone involved has gone above and beyond to make the experience unforgettable for Theo, and we are incredibly grateful to them all.
Duncan, Theo's father
For more information about disability cricket in Hampshire, please click the link below.
