WHILST 2020 has not been the best of years for anyone, the year has ended better than expected for Stratford Boat Club.
Not only was the adaptive section named Parasport Club of the Year, but adaptive athlete Jake Blatcher was awarded Shakespeare Lions’ John Whitfield Shield for Youth Community Service for 2020.
The award was presented to Blatcher, who sculls regularly and volunteers and helps out with the adaptive section at Stratford Boat Club, by Peter Humberstone, immediate past president of Shakespeare Lions.
Blatcher was also handed an additional prize by Humberstone for his consistent contribution to volunteering and achievement at Stratford Boat Club.
Generous Blatcher has donated this award directly to the adaptive section’s funds.
Shakespeare Lions’ John Whitfield Shield for Youth Community Service.Mark Dewdney, head adaptive coach at Stratford Boat Club, commented: “Jake’s selfless assistance and input with the club’s adaptive section has been an example and beacon to us all in these challenging times and exemplifies the qualities of all who coach and volunteer at Stratford Boat Club.
“We are immensely proud of Jake’s achievements, not only on the water but also in his own life.
“As well as being an excellent and improving sculler, Jake works with a local company promoting their and other clients’ products and services.
“The encouragement, mentoring and help that Shakespeare Lions and their outreach of over 50 years gives the local community massively impacts the confidence and progress of young adults.”
