Cambridge United Academy scholars attend B5 Consultancy workshop to show the impact of dangerous driving and how to deal with adversity...
Cambridge United scholars participated in an arranged workshop led by Matt Himsworth and Shaun Whiter last Thursday, who educated the young players on the consequences of dangerous driving and the challenges of adversity.
Shaun Whiter, a former non-league footballer for Newmarket Town, told his remarkable heartfelt story, outlining the events that occurred in 2016. Shaun was helping a friend replace a tyre moments before he was hit by a car and left in critical condition, having lost 5 pints of blood.
The heroics of the East Anglian paramedic service saved Shaun's life, but he had both legs amputated because of the actions of someone else's lack of judgement and ignorance.
Shaun discussed his own personal experiences with the hardships and hurdles he faced while on his path to recovery, emphasising the significance of football for him.
“In my darkest days the football family pulled together, Cambridge United particularly so,” Shaun said.
“I had Josh Coulson sat by my hospital bed chatting to me for three hours. People like Josh will never know how much they helped get me through my darkest days.
"I wouldn't wish what happened to me on anyone but, if you gave me a time machine, I'd go back and help my friend every time. It's a Sliding Doors moment. Without the crash I wouldn't have started the life that I now have that is so fulfilling".
Shaun had a long-time healing from the calamity in both a physical and mental aspect, but despite his challenges, he has used what happened to motivate him and achieve so much, from climbing Mount Snowdon to participating in several marathons alongside Olympic champion Richard Whitehead.
Shaun has now partnered up with B5 Consultancy, run by Matt Himsworth and former professional footballer Fraser Franks to warn young men about potential mistakes and how to deal with difficult circumstances.
Coaches of the Cambridge United Academy also participated in the workshop and Academy Player Care Manager Callum Langley said, “Having Shaun to come in to do a workshop was an absolute inspiration. After all that he has been through, the desire and passion he holds when he speaks is phenomenal.
“He taught our boys some incredible lessons, not just about responsible driving but about life as well. Shaun truly epitomises making the most of every moment and opportunity and left our boys truly enthused and inspired to do the same.”
We would like to thank Shaun and Matt for working with our Academy and giving up their time. You can find out more about their cause by heading to the B5 Consultancy website.