CUAC PowerHouseGames 2025
This week, I had the absolute pleasure of attending a PowerHouseGames event with local schools and the fantastic volunteers from Cambridge University Athletics Club, at Cambridge University’s Sports Centre. It was a day filled with energy, laughter, and most importantly, inclusive sport in action.
Sport for everyone
From the moment I arrived, it was amazing to see children of all abilities fully immersed in the activities. Whether it was sitting volleyball, kurling, foam javelin, or other exciting challenges, the enthusiasm was infectious. Watching the students throw themselves into each game with determination and joy reminded me exactly why Power2Inspire exists—to show that sport is for everyone, no matter their ability.
The volunteers who make it happen
I also had the chance to meet some incredible volunteers, including David Ellis and Stephen Peake, who regularly dedicate their time to making these events possible. Their passion for inclusive sport was clear to see, and their encouragement helped every participant feel like a champion. Volunteers like them are the heartbeat of Power2Inspire, making sure these events run smoothly and leave a lasting impact.
The grand finale:
A giant game of Sitting Netball!
The day ended on a high with a giant game of sitting netball—a brilliant way to bring everyone together for one final, exciting challenge. Laughter echoed around the hall as teams passed, dodged and scored, proving once again that when we adapt sports to be inclusive, everyone wins.
A lasting impact
Walking away from the event, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. Seeing the children embrace new sports, build confidence, and support each other was a powerful reminder of why inclusive sport matters. These experiences break down barriers, challenge perceptions, and create a space where everyone belongs.
A huge thank you to Cambridge University Athletics Club, our volunteers, and all of the amazing students who made the day so special.
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 used with permission.
Attending my first PowerHouseGames
Hands-on with Power2Inspire!
I recently had the pleasure of attending Power2Inspire’s iconic PowerHouseGames event, and their Festival of Inclusive Golf 2022.
Having recently worked alongside John and the team, I have been incredibly inspired by his story and his passion to host so many fantastic and varied events that encourage people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to get involved with sport. However, attending the events in person brought a whole new meaning to them.
I attended a PowerHouseGames at Cambridge University’s Sports Ground, supported by volunteers from Cambridge University’s Hawks and Ospreys clubs. The event brought together a local independent, state and SEN school in an afternoon filled with fun and accessible sports games. These included walking football, kurling, kwik cricket and sitting volleyball. Children were encouraged to step out of their comfort zone by being grouped with children from other schools as well as volunteers from the Hawks and Ospreys.
Seeing children of all abilities having such an amazing time was heartwarming. The sports pitch was not only filled with adapted and exciting games, but smiles, laughter and positivity. Often, it was difficult to spot disability – this is when it’s clear that inclusion is at play
I also attended Power2Inspire’s Festival of Inclusive Golf at Cambridge Lakes Golf Course. This event was kindly sponsored by Taylor Vinters, meaning that participants were able to join in with an afternoon of friendly golf free of charge.
This event saw people of all ages and abilities teamed up together to play golf under the ‘Texas Scramble’ rules – meaning that everyone had the opportunity to contribute to the team’s score. This style of golf was positively welcomed – with many of the attendees commenting on how these rules make the competition so much more accessible and enjoyable.
Having spent the afternoon immersing myself in the festival, the overwhelming feeling was one of calm and relaxation. The pure enjoyment from everyone who attended was clear to see. I spoke with one attendee who told me that often it’s the ‘barriers’ in his life that ‘make him feel disabled, not the disability itself’, but Power2Inspire’s events help him to overcome such barriers and make him feel ‘more included than he ever has done before’.
Power2Inspire’s Festivals of Inclusive Sports are not only an opportunity to be involved with inclusive sports, but also an opportunity to make new friends and try something new.
The charity does an incredible job of hosting sports events and opportunities for everyone to enjoy – it was an honour to be able to see them brought to life. There really was no one left on the bench.
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.
If you’re inspired for Inclusive Sport then do join us at any of our next big events:
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