What a wonderful start to the new year: 2026 began with a bang!
We held a PowerHouseGames for the Cambridge University Rackets Clubs at the University Sports Centre and thanks to the Squash Club and a couple of others it was a great success. We were joined by Ivel Valley Special School, a group with additional needs from the Huntingdon campus of Cambridge Regional College, Stephen Perse, and a group from adult disability charity, Rowan.
As ever Rule Number 1 at a PowerHouseGames is to have fun, and my goodness, these 58 participants had FUN!
There was so much compassion, kindness, generosity, laughter and enthusiasm on display. From the Stephen Perse lad helping to sort out the pusher for his teammate in new age kurling, the inclusive way another lad played sitting volleyball – knocking the beach ball gently to a teammate; to the way the students engaged with players of varying levels of ability while playing pickleball and short tennis. It was a joy to behold – anyone who doubts the younger generation should attend one of our PowerHouseGames!
The highlight for me was the sitting netball, a giant game played by 30 a side! The blues and greens took on the rest. Indira and John, wheelchair users from Rowan, were designated goal shooters for their respective teams and were allowed to sit (in their wheelchairs) next to their attacking hoop. Their teammates had to display skill in the way they threw the foam ball to them, so they could catch it. Their faces, when they caught the ball and deposited it into the hoop, were full of joy: at being included, at being part of a team, of scoring.
Both were so excited as they are returning for the next games on Monday!
Big thanks to Steve Shaw (Mr Disability Tennis in Cambridgeshire) and Mariam from the Cambridge Tennis Academy who together encouraged, coached and enthused at the rackets station. I apologise to Steve for the noise of the pickleballs!
Wendy Chantrell of Ivel Valley, again said how much good these sessions do for her students.
“Often they won’t do things at school, are reluctant to join in. Here, they go and join a team of strangers, often without a backward glance. The benefits to their self-esteem and confidence cannot be over-estimated. Thank you!”
Charlotte Wells of Stephen Perse said it was so valuable to her non-disabled pupils.
“They love helping, they love the snacks, the medal and especially the t-shirt.”
Holly Hayes from Cambridge Regional College was equally effusive:
“The students (and staff!) who attended last week came back to college absolutely thrilled. They were so excited about how the event went and couldn’t stop talking about it for the rest of the day. They felt genuinely included and welcomed throughout.
Our staff also commented on how well organised everything was and how thoughtfully the activities were adapted to meet all needs. They were incredibly complimentary about the Cambridge University racket sports students too, praising their patience, encouragement, and consideration.”
A big thanks to Raffie from the squash club for getting up early (to help with the snack purchasing) and for encouraging so many other squash players to come along. Their enthusiasm for a repeat hopefully will lead the other racket clubs to join the fun too.
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.
