CitySpace shoots for the stars
Released: Friday 29th January 2010 at 00:00
Sunderland will host a rare regional appearance by one of England's national teams next Tuesday (February 2) when England's Netball Team take to the field at the North East's newest sporting venue, CitySpace.
CitySpace, the university's £12m sports and social facility, has been open for less than six months, but has already hosted the 2009 North East Sports Awards and next week will welcome England's national team in an exhibition match against Team Northumbria.
England are currently touring the country playing against some of the Co-Operative Superleague Teams from each region. The fixtures are designed to assist with the England squad's preparation for the February Test Series against Australia and the Commonwealth Games.
England coach Sue Hawkins says: "As a national team coach there's very little opportunity to work with your players in between Test series and I wanted to change that. By playing the Super League franchises I get the chance to see my players in action together, and it's chance for fans across the country to see England on their doorstep. We're looking forward to playing in Sunderland and working with some University of Sunderland students."
Ivan Whitfield, Director of Sport at the University of Sunderland, says: "The university is delighted to be hosting such a high-profile international sports team and match. Attracting events of this nature confirms the superb flexibility and versatility of CitySpace, and shows once again that CitySpace is among the best in the country at hosting these regional and national sporting events."
Entry to watch the game is strictly ticket only. A limited number of free tickets are available from CitySpace reception at City Campus on Chester Road, or call 0191 515 2009 to reserve your tickets.
CitySpace houses a six-badminton court sports hall, hi-specification fitness suite, climbing wall and injuries and massage clinics.
The building also has substantial multi-purpose use. A variety of spaces and social areas offer of range of events, from large production theatre and conferences to exhibitions and seminars.