Iona Harrison, a former hockey star from Forest Hall, North Tyneside, is praising the group Power Through Sport for introducing her to the sport, as they celebrate their 10th anniversary. Harrison, who dropped out of football due to feeling excluded, found her passion in roller-skating hockey, which led to her representing Great Britain at the Ball Hockey World Championship in the Czech Republic. This experience, she says, has been life-changing, boosting her confidence and providing a sense of community. Power Through Sport, a group dedicated to offering young people opportunities to try alternative sports, has been instrumental in this transformation. The organization targets low-income, underserved communities, helping to combat health inequalities through sports participation. Johnny Tulip, the managing director of Power Through Sport, highlights the profound impact of such initiatives, especially on young people who have been given fewer opportunities. He emphasizes that these alternative sports often thrive on the periphery, with limited support and funding, but they can have a significant positive effect on those who engage with them. The story of Harrison and Power Through Sport is a testament to the power of sports in fostering confidence, community, and a sense of belonging, particularly for those who might otherwise feel left out of mainstream activities. It also underscores the importance of organizations like Power Through Sport in providing a much-needed outlet for young people in underserved communities.
