AN INCLUSIVE sporting event held at Worcester University meant no youngsters got left on the bench.
Pupils from schools around the city spent a morning taking part in inclusive sports at the university, led by a charity founder with a unique vision.
Supported by students from the university, around 70 pupils formed teams to compete in a range of events, from walking versions of football and rugby, to sitting netball and boccia.
The event is held by the charity Power2Inspire and was funded by a kind donation from the Eveson Trust.
Charity founder John Willis said: “I was born without fully formed arms and legs, so when I was little I was always left on the bench when it came to sports. Now, our mantra is ‘no one left on the bench’.
“These games are totally inclusive. All the children get on really well, with disabled kids on the team with able bodied kids, they become good friends with their teammates over the course of the games.”
Rebecca Foster, the university’s principal lecturer in adapted physical education, continued: “The games make such a difference to the school pupils, and to our students who love getting involved on the day.
“To keep doing them, we really need to find local companies who’d like to take part. Ideally, firms who’d like their staff to come and join in and be involved in the modified games, experience building a team with marginalised young people while making a contribution to cover things like the team t-shirts and snacks for the competitors.
“It’s an incredible chance for teambuilding while learning about how disabilities affect people of all ages and it’s an opportunity for local people to make a difference to school children in their area.”
To find out more contact Rebecca on [email protected]
