2 former Wightlink Tigers and Buccaneers players are set to represent their chosen charities – and the Island – at the UK’s biggest charity all-star ice hockey tournament later this Summer.
Nathan Webb and Shaun Harris have both been selected to take part in the UK Charity All-Stars event, which is being held at the Bauer Arena in Sheffield from 24th July to 26th July.
The annual tournament brings together players from across the United Kingdom, Belfast and Ireland to raise money for a range of charities of their choosing.
Former Wightlink Tigers captain Nathan Webb, who now plays forward for the Solent Spartans wearing number 26, previously played for clubs including Bracknell Hornets, Slough Jets and Haringey before moving to the Isle of Wight.
Nathan will represent the British Heart Foundation – a charity particularly close to his family after his son Teddy was born with a complex heart condition.
You can donate to Nathan’s chosen charity here.
Nathan has said:
“I couldn’t be more proud to represent the British Heart Foundation in this well-established tournament, not only for sporting reasons but for deeply personal ones.
Article continues below this advertisement “I have a son, Teddy, who has a very complex heart condition.
“He has already undergone two surgeries before the age of six months and will require further corrective surgery in the future.
“Without charities like the British Heart Foundation, and the vital support and research they provide, children like my little boy wouldn’t stand a chance.
“I owe them, and the incredible hospital teams, so much. To be able to give back, even in a small way, is truly an honour.”
Defenceman Shaun Harris, who wears number 27 for the Solent Spartans, joined the Isle of Wight junior hockey programme in 2007 at under 16 level before progressing through the ranks to play for both the Wightlink Tigers and Wightlink Buccaneers.
Alongside his playing career, Shaun also coached young Islanders from under 12 through to under-18 level before Ryde Arena closed in 2016.
Shaun will represent Prostate Cancer UK in memory of his late father-in-law, local dairy farmer David Harvey, who died from cancer in 2024.
You can donate to Shauns chosen charity here.
Shaun has said:
“It’s an honour to play in a tournament that supports charities so close to our hearts and changes the lives of so many people, whilst also, in some ways, still representing the island for hockey.
“Hockey is such a great sport and it’s greatly missed on the Isle of Wight.
“Hopefully one day we will see it back here again.”
UK Charity All-Stars committee member Steve Baker, who previously served as assistant coach for the Wightlink Tigers, said the event had grown significantly since launching in 2008.
Steve has said:
“The UK Charity All-Stars began as a grassroots ice hockey event in 2008, when a small group of passionate fans organised a single game to raise money for charity.
“Today, the UK Charity All-Stars features eight charity teams, bringing together 176 players from across the UK, Belfast and Ireland, with the Isle of Wight now proudly represented for the first time.
“In 2024, the UK Charity All-Stars officially surpassed the £1 million fundraising milestone. To date, the total raised now stands at £1.4 million and continues to rise.”
Speaking about the Island connection, Steve added:
“I first met Shaun and Nathan while serving as assistant coach for the Wightlink Tigers before the rink’s closure.
“Years later, the duo returned to the sport with the Solent Spartans in Gosport, reigniting both their love for the game and long-standing friendships.
“It gives me great honour and pride to see these boys back on the ice.”
This information is not provided regarding how members of the public can donate to the charities involved.
