There are moments in my role at Power2Inspire that serve as incredible reminders of why we do what we do. Our recent PowerHouseGames at Bisham Abbey was one of those moments.
Everyone involved
Returning to the national sports centre for the fourth time, we were once again welcomed by an impressive team of partners and volunteers, all coming together by the belief that sport should be inclusive, accessible and fun for everyone. No one should be left on the bench.
Students from four local schools took part in a day of sport and connection, supported by volunteers from Serco Leisure and Sport in Mind. Together they tried out a brilliant range of activities including new age kurling, seated volleyball, touch rugby, parkour, boccia and goalball.
Supporting and encouraging
It’s always inspiring to students from an array of schools working together, this time it included Furze Platt Junior School, Bisham CoE Primary, Manor Green School and The Marist. It was a day full of energy, laughter and learning.
One of the most powerful things to witness was the way everyone worked together, learning and encouraging each other.
Exciting new activity!
I feel immense pride seeing teams being formed and relationships built on shared experience rather than ability.
To that end – we included Parkour as one of our inclusive activities. It was the first time we’d included Parkour, which is effectively moving as quickly and efficiently from one place to another. This was only possible thanks to the team (Sam, Tom and Callum) at Parkour UK
Leading by example
I want to thank Serco Leisure for sponsoring the event, especially the IT team who gave their time so generously to lead the teams and be so inspiring themselves. Their enthusiasm and openness helped make the day so meaningful for the young people taking part.
Thanks also go to Living Tennis, who sponsored the venue, and to Laurie, Howard and Alex and the team at Bisham Abbey who made the event happen. Everyone went above and beyond to make sure every participant felt welcome and supported.
Building for better
At Power2Inspire, we believe sport has the power to bring people together and build stronger, more inclusive communities. The PowerHouseGames are just one way we put that belief into action, and we’re already looking forward to returning next year.
Because when everyone gets the chance to take part, no one is left on the bench.
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.
