Iona Harrison, a former Forest Hall hockey star, is praising the group Power Through Sport for introducing her to the game, as the organization celebrates its 10th anniversary. Harrison, a 24-year-old youth worker, was initially drawn to the roller-skating version of hockey, which she found more inclusive than her school football experiences. This led her to ball hockey, a sport with a strong following in North America and Eastern Europe, where she represented Great Britain at the Ball Hockey World Championship in the Czech Republic.
Power Through Sport, as Harrison reflects, has given young people a chance to explore "alternative and minority sports" that are often overlooked in the UK. The organization's managing director, Johnny Tulip, agrees, noting that these sports often lack support and funding. Tulip highlights the profound impact these opportunities have on young people from low-income, underserved communities, who are more likely to embrace them with enthusiasm.
Harrison's journey with Power Through Sport has been transformative, boosting her confidence and providing her with a sense of belonging in a community she feels understood. She now works as a full-time hockey coach with the organization, inspiring the next generation of players. The story of Harrison and Power Through Sport underscores the importance of providing diverse sporting opportunities, especially for those who might otherwise feel excluded from traditional sports.
This celebration of Power Through Sport's 10th anniversary is a testament to the power of community and the positive impact it can have on individuals' lives. It also highlights the need for more initiatives like this to support and promote alternative sports, ensuring that all young people have the chance to discover and develop their sporting passions.
