Supporting the Next Generation of Paralympians
Celebrating the National Junior Games at Stoke Mandeville
This week, one of our team members had the privilege of attending the National Junior Games at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement. Now in its 30th year, this incredible event continues to highlight the importance of inclusive sport and the confidence it builds in young disabled athletes.
Each year, the National Junior Games welcome over 100 participants aged 11–18 from schools across the UK. Athletes and their families arrive on Monday, settle into dormitories at the stadium or nearby hotels, and compete in a wide range of events from Tuesday through Thursday.
WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport, organises and delivers the Games with the help of an incredible team of volunteers. Their hard work ensures a welcoming, supportive, and empowering experience for every young person who takes part.
Inclusive Sport at the Heart of the National Junior Games
The National Junior Games offer a packed schedule of inclusive sports, giving participants the chance to try new activities, record their achievements, and celebrate progress. Each athlete receives a personalised scorecard to track their times and results, with medals and prizes awarded at the end of the event.
This year’s activities included table tennis, wheelchair handcycling, powerchair slalom, laser pistol shooting, javelin, shot put, golf, fencing, canoeing, cricket, tennis, squash, archery, wheelchair basketball, air rifle shooting, and swimming. Whether competing for the first time or returning to beat a personal best, every young athlete brought energy and enthusiasm to the games.
The week concluded with a celebratory Thursday night disco—an uplifting highlight that brought everyone together to mark the end of an unforgettable few days.
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Why the National Junior Games Matter
Each year, organisers raise between £70,000 and £80,000 to run the National Junior Games, covering accommodation, meals, equipment, staffing, and accessibility support. These efforts ensure every young athlete can participate fully in a high-quality, inclusive event—often for the very first time.
We’re proud to support the National Junior Games and the positive impact they have on young lives.
If you’d like to help support this amazing event, please consider donating to our JustGiving page. Every donation helps WheelPower continue inspiring the next generation of Paralympians.