Penrith Pumas’ wheelchair rugby group have had additional success off the court.
Through the People’s Project run in conjunction by Border TV and the National Lottery, a Pumas application stood a chance of winning up to £60,000.
Club officials 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, results were released at the beginning of June. In a tense conclusion, ITV Border reporter Kate Walby met with the Pumas at Penrith Leisure Centre to make the big reveal. And the outcome was absolutely fantastic as Penrith Pumas received £59,027.26 towards club funds.
These 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 opportunities 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.
There will also be a 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.”
Megan 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 who 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 people feeling caged and frustrated. Promotion of the club can show others who have a disability or injury that there is a life post-injury or diagnosis.
Penrith Pumas is the only wheelchair rugby club in Cumbria – giving both able and disabled people a chance to take part in the sport.
It attracts members from Cumbria, the Scottish Borders and across Yorkshire and Lancashire. Club nights take place on a Tuesday evening running from 6pm to 9pm, at Penrith Leisure Centre.
For more information contact team manager Megan on 07399539027 or visit www.penrithpumas.co.uk
