There is always something exciting about taking the PowerHouseGames somewhere new, and our first event in Watford was no exception.
With the support of Co-op, Watford Borough Council, Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership and a fantastic group of local partners, we welcomed nearly 100 people to Woodside Leisure Centre for a day of inclusive sport. Having attended many PowerHouseGames over the years, I can honestly say there was something special about the atmosphere from the moment people arrived.
What stood out most was the positivity from those attending their first PowerHouseGames. We often talk about bringing people together through sport, but in Watford you could genuinely feel that happening throughout the day. I even overheard one first-time attendee describe the event as being “beyond expectations”. Those are always lovely words to hear because they remind us why we do what we do.
Discovering new opportunities through sport
A particular highlight was having both London Titans and Saracens Wheelchair Rugby Club involved. It was fantastic to see so many participants trying wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby for the first time and discovering sports they may never otherwise have experienced.
The impact of that was immediate. One of the Co-op volunteers enjoyed wheelchair rugby so much that they have already signed up to attend local open sessions and start playing regularly. At the end of the day they told us they “haven’t been this energised for a while”. For me, that perfectly captures what inclusive sport can do.
Celebrating every achievement
We were also incredibly fortunate to have Matt Sealy from London Titans with us. As a Team GB Paralympian from the London 2012 Games, he brought a wealth of experience and inspiration to the day. Alongside Steph from Saracens Wheelchair Rugby and Emma from Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership, he helped present medals and celebrate the achievements of every participant.
The moments that stay with you
As always, it is often the individual stories that stay with me the longest. One teacher told us they had not seen one of their students run in four years. Yet during the PowerHouseGames, that student got stuck into every activity and embraced every opportunity. Hearing stories like that never gets old.
Another moment that summed up the day came right at the end. As one student was leaving, they turned around and asked whether they could come back and whether we would be doing another one. That question alone tells you everything you need to know about how much they enjoyed the experience.
Most importantly, I hope this is only the beginning. The enthusiasm from participants, volunteers and partners suggests there is real potential to build something long-term in Watford.
A huge thank you to everyone who made the day possible, particularly Co-op, Watford Borough Council, Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership, Everyone Active, London Titans, Saracens Wheelchair Rugby Club, the schools, volunteers and community groups who brought such incredible energy to the event.
If Watford was our first chapter, I very much hope it will not be our last.
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.
