Hammerson Community Games 2011 - Day 1

Today for the first time we were part of delivering activities at the Hammerson Community Games 2011 at the Britannia Leisure Centre in Hackney. This event was hosted by SportInspired. Approximately 200-300 young people aged 9 to 10 participated in 9 different sports. We were the only organisation that offered two sports in Cricket and Floor Tennis. It was a fantastic day as the young people were so enthusiastic.

Upon arrival of our team of coaches and manager the Sports Hall was quiet and the environment was relaxed. The Event Manager introduced herself to us and welcomed us. We were then chauffeured to our designated areas of sports. Over the far side of the hall was marked 'Cricket' and adjacent to it a small area said 'Floor Tennis'. At that moment I felt immense pride that we were offering an activity that the children would most likely never have heard of. And is essence this is what Run Fun Starz Group is about. Countless times I could over hear people; young people and adults alike asking 'What is Floor Tennis'?.

Indeed they found out what Floor Tennis was throughout the morning and afternoon. They seemed to  have really enjoyed it. Equally the Cricket matches were so competitive, fun and LOUD. I have never heard so much cheering in an event like this. And that is saying something. The  sheer volume of energy and support these young people showed each other was so electrifying it passed on to the volunteers. Despite the negative weather forecast and the usual inconsistent weather conditions the young people brought class and joy to the event. It was all inspiring. In the end this is what the host wanted.

This was Game 1 of a total of 3 Games that we will be taking part on: June 24th and July 15th. Stay tuned for the next entry of the Hammerson Community Games 2011 and watch out for latest photos coming up. Bring on the 24th!