On Thursday 15th May 2025, the Three Hills Sports Park in Folkestone buzzed with excitement, laughter, and the unmistakable spirit of inclusion as Power2Inspire and The Sports Trust joined forces for the very first Folkestone PowerHouseGames.
No one left on the bench
From the moment the doors opened at 9am, the energy was infectious – and by the time the final whistle blew on a giant game of sitting netball, every participant, volunteer, and organiser had played their part in a day that truly embodied our motto: No one left on the bench!
A gathering of schools and new friends
This inaugural Kent event welcomed 56 participants, forming 10 vibrant teams, each sporting their own distinctive T-shirts. Pupils from Turner Free School, The Beacon, Earlscliffe College, and Folkestone College came together, breaking down barriers and forging new friendships as they rotated through a carousel of inclusive sports. It was a joy to see teams quickly bond, with students supporting one another, sharing high-fives, and celebrating every small victory.
Challenges and fun for all!
- Our activities line-up was a showcase of adapted sport at its best. Teams threw themselves into boccia, sitting volleyball, new age kurling, goalball, and wheelchair basketball. Each station was a hive of encouragement and teamwork, with participants learning new skills, discovering hidden talents, and, most importantly, having fun.
- Boccia tested precision and strategy, with players using ramps and creative tactics to land their balls closest to the jack.
- Sitting Volleyball brought out competitive spirits and plenty of laughter as players kept their bottoms firmly on the floor while diving for every point.
- New Age Kurling was a new favourite for many, combining focus and finesse as stones glided across the court.
- Goalball challenged teams to trust their senses and each other, with guides enthusiastically directing their blindfolded teammates.
- Wheelchair Basketball, brilliantly led by Ben Potter of the Folkestone Arrows club, was a highlight, with Ben’s expert coaching ensuring everyone, regardless of experience, could take part and shine.
A grand finale to remember
As the morning drew to a close, anticipation built for our now-traditional giant game of sitting netball. With all 56 participants on the court, the atmosphere was electric – balls whizzed across the hall, cheers echoed, and the sense of camaraderie was palpable. It was a fitting finale, perfectly capturing the inclusive ethos of Power2Inspire events.
Inspiring leadership and support
The day was expertly organised by Sarah Green of The Sports Trust, whose attention to detail and passion for inclusion ensured everything ran smoothly. We were honoured to be joined by our ambassador Emma Brown, England Deaf futsal and Football player, who opened the Games alongside John Willis. Emma’s presence inspired everyone present, and her closing words reminded us of the power of sport to unite and empower.
A community effort
None of this would have been possible without the generous financial support and partnership of The Sports Trust, the Folkestone and Hythe Lions, the Folkestone Rotary Club and our hosts the Three Hills Sports Partnership.
Memories made, barriers broken
As medals and certificates were handed out, the smiles on the faces of pupils, teachers, and volunteers told the story of a day filled with achievement, connection, and joy.
“The Kent PowerHouseGames was a terrific event. A great opportunity for our young people to meet other young people from across the district. It supported their transition to the next stage of their educational journeys through stepping outside of their comfort zone to meet new people, work with and support, coach and encourage them. In addition, they developed their confidence, resilience, team work and character utilising the power of sport.”
Ben Walker, teacher at The Beacon, Folkestone
“Thank you once again for inviting me to be part of the PowerHouseGames in Folkestone last week, it was such a powerful, inspiring, and thoroughly enjoyable event. The children were truly admirable and so full of energy; their enthusiasm and smiles were an absolute joy to witness. Huge credit to you, John, Emma, and the entire team at The Sports Trust for delivering such a brilliant day.”
Corporate Volunteer
“The PowerHouseGames is a wonderful idea and I am thrilled Three Hills were able to host it in Folkestone for the first time. To see young people from different schools and with different abilities cheering each other on and playing sports together was really inspiring.”
Councillor Mike Blakemore
“We loved it, really well organised and all needs considered. Brilliantly inclusive and so much fun for all the students.”
Folkestone College, EKC
“What a fun and energetic day, brilliant!”
The Sports Trust
“What an awesome experience! Brilliant!”
The Sports Trust
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.
