For mum-of-three Becky, Turn Up & Play has been a game-changer for her children – Oscar, 11, Molly, 9, and Daisy, 6.
Becky’s children are home-educated, and have found the weekly multi-sport session has been a great way to meet new people and make friends, as well as grow their confidence.
“There aren’t many sport groups that are relaxed and child-led like this,” she said. “It’s fun, not pressured, and not highly competitive, and being free to attend makes a huge difference when you’ve got three kids.”
Becky explains that her son Oscar wasn’t interested in other sports clubs, but he instantly wanted to return to Turn Up & Play after his first session. “It’s the lovely atmosphere they’ve created. You don’t have to be good, you just have to enjoy it. That’s so important,” she said.
Turn Up & Play runs twice a week, with Thursdays dedicated to football and Wednesdays offering multi-sports.
These sessions cover a variety of sports such as handball, basketball, tag rugby, netball, and new favourite Dragonball, invented by our very own coach Adrian. The sport can be adapted to every child, despite age or ability.
It’s this inclusive atmosphere that Becky says sets Turn Up & Play apart from other groups.
“They celebrate trying as much as winning. It’s a big skill to learn how to lose and still feel okay, and they do that brilliantly,” she said.
Becky also spoke about the impact the sessions have had on the rest of her family.
“My son had never wanted to play football, but now he’s confident enough to approach other kids in the park and ask to join in. That wouldn’t have happened before,” she said.
It’s not just the kids benefitting. Becky even joined a local Pickleball club after taking part in a session. “You forget how good it feels to move and play,” she says. “This group reminded me of that joy.”
Find out more about Turn Up & Play here.
Also read: Turn Up & Play: Developing skills on and off the pitch
