Hurrah! First PowerHouseGames of the year brings fun, smiles and more to the young people of Cambridge
We were delighted to start 2023 with a cheer, making the short journey back to the University of Cambridge’s incredible sports centre for our second PowerHouseGames with the University’s Netball and Rugby League teams.
Taking place on Friday 13 January 2023, the games saw these two magnificent sports clubs partnering to play inclusive sports with local independent, state and special schools from the Cambridge area.
Consisting of 12 teams of 5, the Cambridge University Rugby League and Netball Clubs led pupils from St Faith’s School and Quilters Junior School – who had both attended PowerHouseGames before. They were joined by newcomers from Ivel Valley Special School, creating a trio of schools whose pupils were all incredibly excited to join in the fun – which consisted of boccia, sitting netball, goalball, new age kurling, walking football and touch rugby.
John Willis, Founder and Chief Ambassador, said that this was a great way to bring in the new year,
“overcoming their cautiousness – students from Ivel Valley are not used to being parted from their classmates and asked to join a group of strangers – they fitted in straight away, surprising their teachers. And judging from the smiles, squeals, cheering and shouts, they loved it!”
Wendy Chantrell, Integration Lead, Ivel Valley Physical Integration said,
“one of our teaching assistants commented they felt redundant, which is marvellous – our students were made so welcome, were so engaged and had such fun they didn’t need the support we often have to give. It is wonderful.”
Alex Laybourne, CEO, Power2Inspire, was particularly delighted:
“one student declared the organisation of the day was flawless – and that is why we get so many repeat bookings!”
Mike Wade, Headteacher of Quilters Junior School and Power2Inspire ambassador, added:
“the preparation makes the day run seamlessly and is so valuable in teaching inclusion, resilience, diversity, and teamwork.”
John Willis added, “a big shout out to all the Rugby League players and Netballers, as they drew all the school children into competitive teams. They showed inclusion in action. Thank you.”
The event’s success couldn’t have been achieved without the immense help from Power2Inspire volunteers, David Ellis and Steve Shaw, and to the wonderful photographer, Paul Sanwell. Thank you also to the University Sports Centre staff who show off the fabulous centre at its best – a real showcase for what the University of Cambridge has to offer.
John, Alex, and the Power2Inspire team are incredibly positive for what lies ahead:
“roll on the rest of the year and the other 19 PowerHouseGames we have planned. The fun and happiness bar has been set high – but we’re up for the challenge!”
What are PowerHouseGames?
PowerHouseGames are incredible sports days using adapted games and sports, with activities designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, old and young, with disabilities and none, sporty and not. Participants are encouraged to test their beliefs about ability and disability and what it is to be different, to learn to respect other people’s differences, and Power2Inspire works with them to challenge their assumptions of what they can and cannot do.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
Would your university sports team, or school love to be involved in a PowerHouseGames? Could your company support our mission by volunteering at one of our PowerHouseGames? If so, then we would love to hear from you. We are also always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer individually at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. There are SO MANY WAYS we can all help to ensure “no on else is left on the bench!” Click the button here to find out more.