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Darren Harris (Paralympian)

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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

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Harris went to New College Worcester as his sight continued to deteriorate. However, sport helped him deal with his disability.[5]

Professional sports career

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Football (1996-2007)

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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)

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Harris represented Great Britain in judo at the 2008 Paralympics in the -66 kg weight category.[8]

Football (2011–2019)

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Harris represented Great Britain in football at the 2012 Paralympics, where the team finished a disappointing 7th.[9]

Domestic honours

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Harris was awarded a Star by the Albion Foundation for his 'Outstanding Contribution to WBA Teams.[10]

Other roles

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Harris is a brand ambassador for Motability,[11] a 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

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  1. ^ "British Paralympic Association".
  2. ^ "Paralympic Heritage Trust".
  3. ^ "Amazon".
  4. ^ "TEDx".
  5. ^ "Birmingham Mail".
  6. ^ "UCFB".
  7. ^ "Christ Church".
  8. ^ "Judo Info".
  9. ^ "Express & Star".
  10. ^ "WBA".
  11. ^ "Motability".
  12. ^ "Kaleidoscope Plus Group".
  13. ^ "Open University".
  14. ^ "Childhood Eye Cancer Trust".
  15. ^ "Wylde Green Primary School".