"These types of events really do make a difference, the children love them, it's something new and exciting. They also get a chance to try out sports they may never get a chance to do normally"

Last week Access Sport hosted the Manchester Inclusive Schools Festival at Bowdon Hockey, Squash & Cricket Club in partnership with the Manchester United Foundation.

Bringing together special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools supported by the Manchester United Foundation and Access Sport’s community of inclusive clubs, it was a fantastic day of connection and learning.

With five clubs on display, the disabled young people had the opportunity to get involved with a range of sports, including hockey, boxing, baseball, Rugby League and cricket.

Jordan Maguire, a teacher from Kingfisher School, said
“The event set up and organisation was 10/10, it was easy to access for our children, especially our wheelchair users! The sports on offer, such as boxing, are a big hit with our kids, we have purchased our own boxing equipment now and are loving it.”

By showcasing a variety of inclusive sports, events like this one work towards engaging as many young people as possible in Greater Manchester so they can access the transformational benefits of community sport. This event was completely free and allowed three different schools to try new and exciting sports. We were thrilled to hear that because of this event Swinton Lions Rugby League club, who attended on the day, is now delivering sessions directly in schools, and one young person has joined the club.

Paddy, a teacher at Brentwood Primary School, said
"These types of events really do make a difference, the children love them, it's something new and exciting. They also get a chance to try out sports they may never get a chance to do normally. This is the second one our school has attended and we can't wait for the next".

Festivals like this one are crucial to bridging the gap between inclusive community clubs looking to recruit underserved participants, and young people who can profit from the life-changing benefits of sports and physical activity. By providing coaches and volunteers with a network of eager young people, we are laying the groundwork for the long-term sustainable success of Manchester’s community sports clubs.

Molly, a student at Pioneer House, said
"I really enjoyed the full day, especially playing football and trying out boxing, which I had never done before".

Are you interested in attending another one of Access Sport’s Inclusive Sports Festivals?

To find out more about inclusive sport in Manchester and our upcoming events, please email:
[email protected]