by Ellie Killick

Last month Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance bought together the neuromuscular community for an exciting day of adapted sports. Held at the Greenbank Sports Academy in Liverpool, the event showcased powerchair football, powerchair hockey, boccia and target shooting – giving the attendees a chance to play, connect and potentially even discover their hidden talents!

Sport offers numerous benefits from improved physical and mental wellbeing, to building confidence, friendships, and a sense of community. All of this was captured at the UpLift INFORM Sport event organised by disabled individuals for disabled people – a proud reflection of Pathfinders’ peer-led values.

More than 20 people took part in the day, something UpLift Project Lead Cath Gouldsbrough was proud to see:

“I was really pleased with the number of people with muscle-weakening conditions who attended the day. Not only did many have a go at all the sports on offer but they made connections and had time to share experiences with people with similar interests. We are looking forward to our weekend event in Liverpool at the end of July and hope to run a sport themed event again early next year.”

The event encouraged attendees to explore a mix of unique adapted sports, with something for everyone to enjoy. The most popular session of the day was powerchair football, led by England international Marcus Harrison and Head Coach Adam McAvoy.

Over 20 attendees took to the court for a thrilling game to conclude the day. Attentions were also drawn to a growing sport in the UK, powerchair hockey. Currently popular on the Merseyside the fast-paced sport was tried by many at the event, one that particularly enjoyed the new experience was Sophie Anderson. After scoring not once but twice in her first game, the 20-year-old explained:

“I never really thought that sport was for me, until I attended the Uplift event in Liverpool – I had so much fun trying out different accessible sports and am now trying to get involved in power hockey, which I’d never even heard of before the event! Thank you Pathfinders for organising such a brilliant day.”

This is just the beginning of Pathfinders’ sport based events with another coming early next year. So, if you have a neuromuscular condition, a passion for sport or just want to meet likeminded people – join the Pathfinders community and keep an eye out for updates on our social media platforms!

If you are aged 18 – 30 and would like to find out more about UpLift, email uplift@pathfindersalliance.org.uk

For information about the sports visit:

• Powerchair Football
• Power Hockey
• Boccia
• Target Shooting