It isn’t the size of the PowerHouseGames (PHG) but the amount of fun had at one, that makes it so special. This was our fourth PHG at the college and possibly the happiest. The 28 participants, in 8 teams of 3 or 4, came from across the globe, with the widest range of backgrounds imaginable.
A huge thank you to Charley Light (the Dean’s Programme and Events Coordinator) for organising the afternoon and to my daughter, Anna, a College member, who promoted it far and wide.
Seeing people of all ages, children as well as older students, people of so many different nationalities, faiths and cultures, and people of all abilities, including two wheelchair users, all playing inclusive games with laughter, smiles, cheers and joy, is an embodiment of what PHGs are all about.
It has to be said new age kurling got competitive: maybe it was the Canadians upholding their country’s honour, or maybe it is just a fabulously competitive game. Even the brushes – so important on ice but less so on the lovely wooden floor – were wielded with gusto!
Sitting volleyball was more collaborative. Challenged by me with a rally score of 17 from a Year 3 group in a school, two teams cooperated to score 22. Amazing what motivation and teamwork can do.
I like the idea of our games being disseminated around the globe as the members of the college mostly return to their home countries after a year in London. They say these games are not played back home and they all promised to be advocates of these inclusive activities.
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.
