Inspiring Recognition for Young People’s Wellbeing Initiatives in Croydon
In a remarkable celebration of youth empowerment and community wellness, the South London’s Croydon School Sports Partnership has been honored at the School Games Impact Awards 2026. The partnership received the prestigious Positive Experiences for Targeted Young People Award during a ceremony held at the Telford International Centre on June 2nd, recognizing their significant contribution towards promoting wellbeing among young people through sports.
Commendable Initiatives Focused on Youth Wellbeing
The award-winning ‘Play. Chill. Heal.’ project has been instrumental in creating a wellbeing-focused strategy that emphasizes the importance of rest and recovery, essential components for maintaining physical activity among young individuals. This initiative was specifically commended for its success in reducing anxiety, boosting confidence, and engaging underrepresented youth, making sports accessible for all, irrespective of their challenges.
The Vision Behind Success
Agata Maj, the School Games Organiser for the partnership, expressed her profound delight upon receiving the award. She highlighted how this recognition underscores the critical importance of promoting effective recovery alongside physical performance. Maj noted, “I have been truly inspired by the impact of the 'Play. Chill. Heal.' project on both young people and adults across Croydon.” Her commitment to inclusivity resonates, as she dedicated the award not just to her team but to the youths and communities that have embraced this transformative program.
A Community United Through Sport
Maj's dedication extended beyond personal pride as she emphasized the unifying power of sports within the community. “Seeing participants from all backgrounds, ages, cultures, beliefs, genders, and abilities engage with the programme has reinforced the importance of creating meaningful, inclusive opportunities that support both physical activity and wellbeing,” she said. This sentiment was echoed by Clare Warburton of the Youth Sport Trust, who reiterated the role of community sports in fostering relationships and empowering the youth.
Looking Ahead
This accolade represents more than just a recognition of a project; it illustrates a broader commitment to supporting mental and physical wellbeing among the youth. The dedication of the Croydon School Sports Partnership and their ability to tackle inequalities through sports highlights a promising path forward for similar initiatives across the country. As the reach of the ‘Play. Chill. Heal.’ project continues to expand, the positive influence on young people’s lives is set to grow even further, promising a brighter and more inclusive future.
