Chris Darling, PE teacher from Bottisham Village College (about 10 miles east of Cambridge) was so excited by what he saw at the Hawks Ospreys PowerHouseGames in March he was determined to bring a version to his school. And he did!
Real commitment to the cause
On a rather damp Wednesday he gathered his sports leaders and some Y7s and Y8s to form the core of 10 teams. We invited Castle Special School – Claire Laidler was adamant:
“We wouldn’t miss these Games for anything!”
and Chris went and collected the Sawston Village College students as they had transport issues!
And the students showed commitment too: it was damp when Stephen Peak and I arrived – thank you Stephen for volunteering again! – and drizzled a little, but the children were intent on having fun.
Adapting the games to match the environment
We adapted the games as we were outside on an artificial pitch, not ideal for sitting down on wet grass. Sitting volleyball was on chairs with a raised net; and goalball players used flat discs for one knee to take up the “Spiderman” pose. Kwik cricket and boccia carried on as normal, and football became blindfold slalom dribbling and shooting.
The Bottisham sports leaders were outstanding – really engaging with the students in their team with challenges whether from Castle or Sawston. A couple of the visitors found it too much and stepped away from the games but, as their teachers said, it was wonderful they even came, represented their school and saw life outside of their usual bubble.
Let's go again
A grand day and our first of this type. All the teachers were very keen to repeat so we need to find the funding (to include transport) to ensure we can do so next year. If you know anyone that could help please do get in touch below.
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.
