Before the recent AGM which was held in London in January, there was an open session for Members to feedback on what they wanted from UKDS.

A popular proposal was that UKDS - meaning the Board - should be more 'visible and show their support by attending events.

While some of the board have strong connections with Member sports (e.g. Steve Wherry - Rugby and Caroline Bird - Badminton), the UKDS trustees were only too happy to accept the challenge.

UKDS Chair Philip Gerrard, along with Steve Wherry, popped along to watch England take on Wales at their recent Deaf rugby international recently and thoroughly enjoyed watching his first full rugby match.

Philip said:

"It was quite right for the Membership to ask that UKDS Trustees physically show their support for the events organised by our Members.

"For 2010 and onwards, myself and the other Trustees will be doing our best to be present at as many events as possible.

"We will not just 'show our faces' at these events but will be looking to meet and engage with Deaf sports players, coaches and organisers.

"We all look forward to meeting you in what looks to be a busy year of sport in 2010".

Make our Schedule your first stop

The UKDS website now features a Sports Schedule*  which has two main aims:

for supporters and followers of Deaf Sports to find out the events taking place over the coming year

for organisers of Deaf sports to list their matches, trials, social nights and competitions  

If you have an event booked which is not yet showing in our Schedule, please Contact Us  and include the word 'Schedule' in the title of the form.

DSPoY on the lookout 

Members of the Deaf Sports Personality of the Year  organising committee will also be attending many sporting events before the Awards ceremony in November.  They will be looking to record action shots and strong sporting material to include in the 'Highlights of the Year' package. 

* (Please note that except where stated, the events in the Schedule are not organised by UKDS. You are encouraged to check details with the organisers before making any travel arrangements).