Sharks to wear specially commissioned shirt for Rainbow Day

Sussex Sharks will show their support for Rainbow Day at this afternoon’s Vitality Blast match against Gloucestershire by wearing a specially commissioned playing shirt.

The fixture at the Bristol County Ground will focus on on raising awareness for the local charity, Rainbow @ Grief Encounter which provides support for bereaved children and their families ­– including Gloucestershire and former Sussex left-arm spinner Tom Smith and his two daughters. 

The shirts have been designed and manufactured by Sussex's official kit supplier, Surridge Sports.

Tom’s Story

“On August 23rd 2018, our lives were changed forever when my beautiful wife Laura lost her courageous battle with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (a rare chronic liver disease) and bile-duct cancer, after 18 months of fighting.

“It was the darkest of days and my eldest daughter (aged 4) was not only struggling with her mother’s death but also starting school and settling into new routines.

“I was recommended Rainbow @ Grief Encounter and they’ve supported us for the past nine months. They’ve given my daughter regular play therapy, which has made a huge difference, and I’ve had the opportunity to meet other widows and share stories, helping us to feel less isolated.

“I wanted to channel my emotions into doing something positive so that as many families as possible can benefit from the charity’s support and the club have been amazing in helping to organise this event.

“Laura brightened so many people’s lives and the colourfulness of the day really represents that. This fixture is also extra-special because it’s against Sussex, where I started my career and where Laura and I both grew up.

“What my family has been through has been terrible, but if we can raise funds and awareness for others affected by grief in the future, then that would be something that Laura would be so proud of.”

“The charity has invited families they support to come along and enjoy the match, and some of the young people will form part of the Guard of Honour to welcome the players onto the pitch.