Darren Harris is a Paralympian & England’s most capped and most decorated blind footballer on a mission to help ordinary people do extraordinary things.
As a child, Darren excelled both in the classroom and on the playing field.
However, his disruptive behaviour continued to be a problem resulting in his exclusion from school.
He managed to turn his life around, first going to University to study Maths, then on to work for a leading IT company. But all along, sport was in his DNA.
He made his debut for the England blind football team in 1996, became captain in 2002, and helped the team qualify a place at the Athens Paralympic Games in 2004.
However, they were barred from taking part, as the other Home Nations besides England, wouldn’t sanction a Great Britain team to play.
Fed up of being kicked around like a political football, and already owning a black belt in judo, he quit his job, switched sports and began training full-time.
He competed at the Beijing Paralympics in 2008.
But plagued by injury leading up to the World Championships in 2010 and World Games in 2011, he finished Judo and returned to football to play at the London Paralympic Games in 2012.
Every athlete faces tough times, whether it’s injury, defeat, or personal challenges. In this talk, our athletes open up about the adversity they have experienced and how they found the strength to bounce back. Pupils will learn about the importance of resilience, determination, and staying positive in difficult situations. These are valuable lessons they can use in school, sport, and life.
What makes a team truly successful? Our athletes reveal the secrets behind high performing teams, whether it is a sports squad, a relay team, or a support network behind the scenes. They share how trust, clear roles, good communication, and a shared goal lead to outstanding results. Pupils will learn how these lessons apply not just in sport, but in school groups, projects, and friendships too.
Inclusion and diversity are essential for creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone. In this talk, our athletes share their experiences of embracing differences, breaking down barriers, and building inclusive teams. Pupils will be inspired to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and stand up for others, both in sport and in all areas of life.
The Paralympic Games are a celebration of determination, talent, and breaking down barriers. In this talk, our Paralympians and para-athletes share their incredible journeys, highlighting the power of resilience, inclusion, and the human spirit. Pupils will hear how these athletes have overcome challenges, changed perceptions, and achieved greatness on the world stage, inspiring everyone to believe in what is possible.
Success in sport and life starts with the right mindset. In this talk, our athletes explore how having a positive, focused, and growth-orientated mindset has helped them face challenges, learn from setbacks, and stay motivated. Pupils will leave inspired to believe in themselves and approach obstacles with confidence.
Darren’s visit reinforced all the messages that were delivered throughout the day and he used his own experiences to help get these messages and advice across.
Darren was a fantastic Sporting Champion who provided an excellent motivational Speech which inspired participants to give their all and demonstrate the values throughout the day.
Inspirational Athletes connects schools & communities with elite athletes who inspire, motivate and engage young people through talks, workshops and sports sessions.
Address:
Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 1RD
Phone:
020 7993 2724
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
