We returned to Goodenough College on Saturday 1st March for a PowerHouseGames with a difference. The forty residents and students, with their friends, played five games in the Great Hall, and learnt all about inclusive and adapted sports.
The College, “London’s finest post-graduate community”, has a core purpose of building international understanding. Quite a few among the 700 residents have never played inclusive sports, not played with people from other races, faiths and even gender, so our PowerHouseGames showcased a way to work together.
Ten teams of four battled it out (in a friendly manner) over boccia, new age kurling, goalball and sitting volleyball. There was much laughter, hilarity and smiles. We finished with a giant game of sitting netball.
Hamza Buhari said:
“Taking part in the Power2Inspire PowerHouseGames was an incredible experience — one that was both fun and deeply inspiring. The event truly lived up to its motto, “No one left on the bench,” as every activity was designed to ensure full inclusion, proving how easily sports can be modified to accommodate everyone.
One of the most eye-opening aspects of the day was realising how small adjustments—such as teaming up or adapting the rules—can make games accessible to all. Goalball, for example, required a level of trust and teamwork that made it especially rewarding. Sitting netball, on the other hand, was pure chaotic fun! With everyone on the floor, the energy in the room was electric, and the experience was both motivational and educational.
Beyond the games themselves, the true highlight of the day was the sense of camaraderie and shared joy between participants, volunteers, and organisers. Sport has a unique ability to bring people together, and the PowerHouseGames showcased that in the best possible way.
A huge thank you to Power2Inspire and all those who made the event possible. I left feeling not just entertained but inspired—and I can’t wait for the next one!”
And Marcio Fonseca said:
“I had the immense honour of participating in the Power2Inspire PowerHouseGames at Goodenough College, a truly memorable experience. As a professional athlete, I’ve competed in several tournaments around the world, but I’ve been amazed at how intense, competitive, and at the same time fun the PowerHouseGames are. What makes this event even more special is its inclusive nature: everyone can participate, regardless of experience level or physical condition. More than just a competition, PowerHouseGames represent the best that sport has to offer: overcoming, team spirit, fair play and, above all, the celebration of diversity. In the end, there is nothing to pay for the joy stamped on the faces of the participants and the strong sense of community experienced throughout the event.”
Thanks to Paul Chatfield, Chris Smith and Lindsay Dodsworth, my wife and a trustee of the College, for volunteering. But the biggest thanks go to Alan McCormack, the Dean, and Charley Light, who did all the cajoling!
These games have already spawned one more – the Care City Games in December 2024 – and we have high hopes for more. If any alumni would like to explore taking a PowerHouseGames home, please get in touch.
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.
