Plymouth City Patriots were on hand to spread Christmas cheer on the children’s ward at Derriford Hospital on Friday afternoon. Players and staff members from the clubs roster was in attendance as they handed out presents and spent time with all of the children in the ward.
The Patriots proudly sit proudly at the heart of their community and aim to be role models both on and off the court. The club regularly attends events and engages with the community at a whole host of events, clubs and sessions throughout the year using basketball as a positive tool to bring people together.
Alongside handing out gifts,the players and staff were on hand to chat with the children and their families to lift spirits during what is a difficult time of year to be in hospital. Likewise the Patriots showed their support for the work of all of the nursing staff on the ward on what was a fun filled festive afternoon.
Speaking following the visit, Patriots star Elvisi Dusha said:
“It has been a pleasure to come down to the hospital today and spend some time with children on the ward to spread some festive cheer. To play a part in putting a smile on anyone’s face is extremely rewarding but in particular for those who need it the most given the time of year. As a group of players we are extremely passionate about doing anything we can for our local community and it was great to be involved today. I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!”
Patriots Head Coach Paul James said:
“It’s been such a great filled afternoon and it's been great to be able to bring such joy alongside all the players and staff here from the Patriots. It was great to be able to spread the festive spirit and hand out gifts to children on the ward this afternoon, as well as spend time chatting with them and their families. Their positive attitude is extremely inspiring to all of us and to be able to give something back is very gratifying. Plymouth City Patriots are a family club and it's great to be a part of a number of initiatives such as this one that have the community at its heart.”
