Coventry’s newest semi-professional sports team, Coventry Chargers, are set to play in their first ever game when the British Kabaddi League (BKL) takes place in Wolverhampton this weekend.
Coventry Chargers are entering the BKL for the first time and will be competing against the likes of Birmingham Bulls, Wolverhampton Wolfpack and Glasgow Unicorns.
Ahead of their first time competing as a team, Coventry Chargers have partnered with Coventry Building Society as their headline sponsor.
The BKL is built on three weekend series, taking place in Wolverhampton, Glasgow, and Coventry.
Coventry will host 15 matches at Centre AT7 from Friday 3 – Sunday 5 May and spectators are invited to attend to cheer on the home side, whilst the centre is open for a community festival all weekend.
Andy Williams, Director of Regeneration and Economy, said: “We’ve been supporting the Coventry Chargers team from the very beginning as part of our commitment around diversity and inclusion, and I am delighted that Coventry Building Society will be showing support by sponsoring the team in their first ever season.
“This partnership underscores our mutual commitment to supporting both professional sporting events and community engagement in Coventry. I wish the team the best of luck in their first home games and thank Coventry Building Society for their unwavering commitment.”
Jon Badger, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Coventry Building Society, said "We are thrilled to be supporting the Coventry Chargers in their inaugural season. Embracing diversity and community spirit are core values for us at Coventry Building Society, making this sponsorship a natural fit.
“Coventry and the West Midlands stand out as some of the most diverse places in the country, and we are proud to support initiatives that bring people together through sports."
The BKL runs from 19 April - 19 May and promises an electrifying atmosphere, with athletes showing their skill when competing in intense matches. The league ends with finals weekend which will be held in Birmingham.
All BKL games can be watched live on BBC iPlayer or on catch up. Coventry Chargers are up against Nottingham Royals at 2pm on Saturday 20 April and will be competing against local rivals Birmingham Bulls on Sunday 21 April.
The three-day event in Coventry will not only provide entertainment for Kabaddi enthusiasts but also serve as a platform to grow the sport in the city amongst players and spectators alike with a large community event.
Coventry Chargers are supported by Coventry City Council, Coventry University, University of Warwick, Coventry Building Society, CV Life and Go CV. If you are interested in supporting the team please contact covsport@coventry.gov.uk