Penrith Pumas Wheelchair Rugby have had additional success in an ‘off the field’ process.
Through the People’s Project run in conjunction by ITV (Border TV) and The National Lottery the Pumas application stood a chance of winning up to £60,000. The club submitted their entry and following a week of short video clips by them and the other applicants, community-based projects in Cumbria and the Scottish Borders, the public voting process was launched.
Following the voting process the results were released at the beginning of June. In a tense moment Border ITV reporter Kate Walby met with the club at Penrith Leisure Centre to make the big reveal. The outcome was absolutely fantastic as Penrith Puma’s received £59,027.26 towards the club’s funds.
The funds will be utilised to assist in the week to week running of the club, as well as engaging communities across Cumbria through the power of sport, specifically Wheelchair Rugby. In doing so the club aim to build stronger connections across different communities empowering them to become more inclusive, thus promoting access to sport for all.
This will be achieved by offering the opportunity to play the game, help with kit, preparing and repairing equipment, becoming a referee, or keeping score. The families of those playing, including their children, can help as ball catchers and refreshment carriers. We will provide the team the chance to learn new skills that require discipline, tactics, teamwork, communication, and support both physical and mental health – and above all enjoyment.
Megan Pettit, Pumas Manager said, “The award will help the club to foster positive relationships with key stakeholders showing them how our members have overcome adversity both physically and mentally which is humbling, inspiring and truly motivational. Thus, advocating the needs for our community environments to be inclusive rather than exclusive.” She also expressed thanks to all those who had taken the time to vote for the Pumas.
The club brings together individuals who have encountered significant life changing injuries or live with long term chronic health conditions that they cannot ever accept or be satisfied with. Living with a body that is not independent, requires assistance with daily tasks that can leave them feeling caged and frustrated. By promoting the club we can show others who have got a disability or injury that there is a life post injury or diagnosis.
Penrith Pumas are the only wheelchair rugby club in Cumbria – giving access to both able and disabled people to take part in the sport. The club attracts members from Cumbria, the Scottish Borders and down into Yorkshire and Lancashire. Club nights are on a Tuesday evening running 6-9pm, at Penrith Leisure Centre.
Any one wanting to know more information should contact the Team Manager, Megan Pettit on 07399539027.
