We returned to Granta Park on a hot summer’s day for our second games. This was arranged with the help of Bidwells, the managers of Granta Park, the home of 30 companies and 3,700 employees.
As last year, this was a competitive, corporate edition of our PowerHouseGames. Six teams attended: Unique, Quality Masters and Commercial Wizards from Illumina, and teams from Bidwells, Nuffield and Vernalis. Each team played every other team in two inclusive games – goalball and sitting volleyball. The two best teams then played a game of boccia, the most inclusive sport in the world. It was a tense and exciting decider.
Goalball is played in the Paralympics by blind athletes who can throw the ball at up to 60 m.p.h. Our version is somewhat gentler with three of the team sitting in front of a ‘goal’ made by a line of cones, and the remainder giving guidance to those in front. Our version offers the opportunity to test communication skills, trust your fellow employees, and practise your listening skills.
We had a true expert in our midst when it came to sitting volleyball: Rob Richardson, of Bidwells, was the captain of the GB sitting volleyball team! Forcing everyone to keep their ‘butt cheeks’ on the floor, levels the playing field, so it is ideal for these inclusive games, allowing all shapes and sizes to participate. The claps, cheers and laughter testified to this.
Nuffield and Bidwells pulled clear of the others in both sessions and faced each other in the boccia play-off. On rough grass and with no one having played the game before, it came down to the bounce of a ball and Nuffield edged it. Everyone received a medal and a certificate, and Nuffield took the cup and individual trophies.
Pizza and beer in the Clubhouse finished a very enjoyable early evening with Christine Cook of Illumina summing it up perfectly and referring to Power2Inspire’s Rule No. 1:
“It was fun!”
Not only does the financial support of these games allow us to host our PowerHouseGames at the University Sports Centre with SEND schools attending, but it showcases our games to potential volunteers. I am delighted to say a few participants indicated a keenness to volunteer! Companies, please note – a great way for your staff to enjoy using their charity days.
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.
All photos are from the 2024 event and used with permission
