As someone from Reading, this PowerHouseGames felt particularly special.
Not only was it taking place in my hometown, but it was also our first-ever PowerHouseGames in partnership with a football club as we teamed up with Reading FC Community Trust.
With plenty of space to spread out at the Community Trust training centre, we had our usual line-up of activities including walking touch rugby, walking football, boccia, goalball, Kwik cricket and seated volleyball.
Everyone Coming Together
One thing I particularly noticed was how quickly everyone got stuck into the games. The cohesion of the teams was what stood out to me most at this PowerHouseGames. It was powerful to see everyone working together regardless of their age, gender or disability. We even had one student tell us that it was “really cool seeing so many different people here together”, which is exactly what Power2Inspire is all about.
The enthusiasm throughout the day was incredible. My poor camera could barely keep up.
“Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Amazing”
One student summed up the day by describing it as “really, really, really, really, really amazing”. I think the five “reallys” paint a pretty clear picture of how much they enjoyed themselves. Another student spoke about how proud she was of both herself and her team, once again highlighting the impact that comes from bringing people together and creating an environment where everyone can succeed.
The Moments That Matter
Another highlight came during the walking football. One of the wheelchair users took up position in goal and pulled off save after save. Hearing his teammates shout “great save” after each stop and seeing the smile spread across his face was a brilliant reminder of what these events are all about.
A huge thank you to our volunteers from Sport in Mind and Field Seymour Parkes LLP for getting fully involved throughout the day. I think it is fair to say some of them may have enjoyed the games just as much as the students.
Hopefully the First of Many
Thank you to Charlotte from Reading FC Community Trust for helping bring this event to life. After such a successful day, we hope it will be the first of many. A thank you also goes to Trustee Stephan Peak for helping with the setup and supporting behind the scenes throughout the day.
And finally, thank you to Alex and John. They are the driving force behind the PowerHouseGames and without their passion and commitment, days like this simply would not be possible. Seeing a PowerHouseGames take place in my hometown and witnessing the impact it had on participants was a reminder of why Power2Inspire’s mission is so important, and why we are excited for what comes next.
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.
