About Us
History, Aims and Objectives
The establishment of the Shaheedi Sports Council in 1968 by volunteers in Queens Park, Bedford, marks a significant milestone in the history of community engagement and sports development, particularly within the Punjabi community hailing from Punjab in the Indian subcontinent.
The founding of the Shaheedi Sports Council reflects a proactive approach by the Punjabi community to foster unity, health, and wellbeing through sports activities. It signifies a grassroots effort to create opportunities for physical activity, recreation, and social interaction, especially among the immigrant population settling in Bedford.
Shaheedi Sports Council has provided much needed platform to promote sports and multicultural activities in Bedford and the surrounding towns in the region to achieve integration and community cohesion.
Over the years, the Shaheedi Sports Council has expanded its activities beyond the initial setup in Queens Park. It has organised tournaments, and recreational activities catering to people of all ages and backgrounds, thereby promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange within the local community.
Shaheedi Sports Council has played a crucial role in nurturing talent, providing coaching and training facilities. Through its initiatives, it has encouraged participation in both traditional Punjabi sports and mainstream sports, contributing to the overall health and well-being of individuals and the community at large.
Furthermore, Shaheedi Sports Council has served as a platform for cultural exchange, helping to bridge cultural divides and promote understanding and appreciation of multicultural heritage and traditions among the wider population in Bedford.
Overall, the Shaheedi Sports Council’s journey from its humble beginnings in 1968 to its potential growth and impact in the community reflects the power of sports as a unifying force and a vehicle for social integration, health promotion, and cultural enrichment.
Affiliation
England Kabadee Federation (EKF)
Khalsa Football Federation (KFF)
Bedford Football Association (BedsFA)
The National Volleyball League
Sports and Activities
Football- Junior and Senior
Volleyball
Tug-of-War
Athletics
and Have-a-Go Activities for all ages to encourage family participation.
Other sports played in the past include Kabadee ,Hockey, Cricket , and shooting ball .
Invited Guests and organisations include
- Sponsors and Sports Personalities ,
- The MP for Bedford and Kempston,
- The Mayor of Bedford,
- Local Councillors, PCC
- The Sheriff of Bedfordshire.
- Bedfordshire police Recruitment Display.
- Bedfordshire Fire and Ambulance display.
Governance
The management committee consists of unpaid volunteers and works in accordance with the Constitution of the Organisation.
Members
Chairman
Vice Chairman
Secretary
Assistant Secretary
Treasurer
Assistant Treasurer
Funding
Mainly funded by donations from the committee members and local businesses, Guru Nanak Gurdwara Queens Park, Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara Kempston , Guru Ravidas Bhavan , Gurdwara Sahib-Ramgharia Sikh Society , Bhagwan Balmik Sahba .
The Organisation is also supported by local NGO’s,Bedford Borough Council and Kempston Town Council .