This week Swansea’s ever inspiring and committed young volunteers took centre stage to bring to life their successful Dragon’s Den winning pitch from the National Inclusive Futures camp back in March this year.
The innovative IF volunteers worked in collaboration with Disability Sport Wales, Virgin Media, Swansea Sports Development, 360 Beach & Watersports Centre, Swansea University, Swansea Storm, Swansea Boccia, Youth Sport Trust and the UK Sports Association to deliver a hugely successful ‘Beach’ Sports Festival. Unfortunately, due to the adverse weather the event was relocated to Swansea University Sports Centre, but this did not detract from what was a brilliant event for all involved.
Swansea’s own Inclusive Futures intern and aspiring Paralympian, James Ledger, along with members of the Dragon’s Den winning pitch Olivia Van Den Bogerd, Tom Founds, Max Davies and Chloe Clarke put together an inspiring programme of activities that included the sports of Sitting Volleyball, Boccia and Inclusive Athletics. To add value and inspiration to the day they also delivered a Q&A with Commonwealth Games Bronze medalist and My Sport, My Voice Ambassador Jack Thomas and a fun round of a Question of Sport hosted by IF Champion and Gold YA Alex Griffiths.
Providing expertise and advice across the sports were the IF mentors James Coyle-King, Ieuan Coombes, Jordan Rosser and James Ledger, whose commitment and enthusiasm to the IF project continues to inspire the whole team to raise the bar and showcase youth empowerment and inclusive sports at its best.
The IF Team were delighted to welcome pupils and staff from Penybryn Special School, Bishop Gore and Bishop Vaughan who left with a fantastic and inspiring experience that will hopefully encourage them to take up sport in their communities.
One of the key outcomes of the event will soon see the introduction of Sitting Volleyball at the 360 Beach & Watersports Centre. If you want to express your interest in taking up this fantastic and inclusive sport please contact Libby Vernon at sport@360swansea.co.uk
The IF team wish to extend their thanks and appreciation to all partners who supported the event, with a special thank you to the volunteers from Virgin Media who continue their ongoing engagement with Disability Sport Wales following the success of Swansea2014.
Finally, Disability Sport Wales and the City & County of Swansea Sports Development wish to thank the entire IF team for their tremendous efforts and innovative thinking for putting together an inspirational event. Well done all.
