Darren Harris (Paralympian)
Darren Harris (born 20 June 1973) is a dual Paralympian in football and judo.[1] He is England’s highest capped and most decorated blind footballer, with 157 appearances and ten World and European medals.[2] Outside of sports, he is a number one bestselling author, motivational speaker, and mental skills coach.[3][4]
Early life[edit]
Harris went to New College Worcester as his sight continued to deteriorate. However, sport helped him deal with his disability.[5]
Professional sports career[edit]
Football (1996-2007)[edit]
Harris made his England blind football debut in 1996, became captain in 2002, and won medals in the 1997, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2007 European Championships.[6]
The team qualified a place at the 2004 Paralympics. But didn’t participate, as none of the Home Nations except England would sanction a team to play as Great Britain.[7]
Judo (2005-2011)[edit]
Harris represented Great Britain in judo at the 2008 Paralympics in the -66 kg weight category.[8]
Football (2011–2019)[edit]
Harris represented Great Britain in football at the 2012 Paralympics, where the team finished a disappointing 7th.[9]
Domestic honours[edit]
Harris was awarded a Star by the Albion Foundation for his 'Outstanding Contribution to WBA Teams.[10]
Other roles[edit]
Harris is a brand ambassador for Motability,[11] an non-executive director for Kaleidoscope Plus Group,[12] an honorary doctor with The Open University,[13] patron for the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust,[14] and Governor for Wylde Green Primary School.[15]
References[edit]
- ^ "British Paralympic Association".
- ^ "Paralympic Heritage Trust".
- ^ "Amazon".
- ^ "TEDx".
- ^ "Birmingham Mail".
- ^ "UCFB".
- ^ "Christ Church".
- ^ "Judo Info".
- ^ "Express & Star".
- ^ "WBA".
- ^ "Motability".
- ^ "Kaleidoscope Plus Group".
- ^ "Open University".
- ^ "Childhood Eye Cancer Trust".
- ^ "Wylde Green Primary School".