Paramveer Singh, a trainee solicitor from Horbury and currently working at John Howe & Co in Pudsey, is preparing to represent North Yorkshire at the inaugural Sikh Games. The event, often referred to as the ‘Olympics for Sikhs,’ will be held at Loughborough University from 16th to 18th August 2024, and it marks a significant moment for Singh as well as the broader Sikh community.
Singh, who recently joined the Yorkshire-based law firm, has secured a position as a forward in the North Yorkshire men’s football team. The 24-year-old balances his legal training with a rigorous fitness regime, which includes football and kickboxing, enabling him to stay match-ready for the upcoming competition.
Pride in Representation
Expressing his excitement and honour, Singh commented,
“Swapping the court for a pitch to represent North Yorkshire is a huge honour. I’m very proud of myself, my brothers, and my teammates for their involvement in the games. It’s going to be a tough football tournament – I know my fellow Sikhs from across the UK are going to be giving it their very best!”
His participation is particularly meaningful given that some of his six brothers are also competing in youth age groups at the games, making it a family affair.
Support from John Howe & Co
John Howe, the founder and managing partner of John Howe & Co, voiced his support and enthusiasm for Singh’s involvement in the Sikh Games. He stated,
“Paramveer has been a great addition to the team here at John Howe, and I am sure he will be equally as valuable for the North Yorkshire team at the Sikh Games! If he’s as skilled on the pitch as he is on his legal briefs, I’m expecting him back with some silverware.”
About the Sikh Games
The Sikh Games is a not-for-profit organisation designed to increase ethnic minority participation in sport while fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The event is anticipated to be a significant celebration of Sikh culture and sporting excellence, driven by the values of equality, excellence, and community spirit.
This year’s event will feature over 2,000 participants representing 35 regions, with more than 20,000 spectators expected to attend. In addition to football, the games will host competitions in a variety of sports, including hockey, kabaddi, athletics, powerlifting, and cricket.
The Sikh Games also aim to stimulate discussions on relevant issues within the sporting world. Over the weekend, there will be panel discussions, keynote speeches, and Q&A sessions that tackle topics of importance to both participants and the wider community.
Looking Ahead
With such a significant platform, the Sikh Games is set to become a cornerstone event for the community, offering not just sporting excellence but also an opportunity to highlight the role of sports in promoting unity and equality.
As Paramveer Singh takes to the field, he will not only represent North Yorkshire but also embody the spirit of the Sikh community, demonstrating the power of sport in bringing people together. His dual role as a trainee solicitor and an athlete underscores the diverse talents and commitments of young professionals today, who balance their careers with their passions.
With the backing of his employer, John Howe & Co, and the support of his family, Singh is poised to make his mark both on the pitch and in the legal world.