Sporting Your Futures

Three years ago, when Sporting Your Futures began delivering Go Play sessions, we knew we were stepping into something meaningful. What we didn’t fully realise was how much those sessions would shape us as much as the communities we serve.

I’m Matt, and over the past three years I’ve had the privilege of supporting delivery across Rowley Regis — in Tividale, Blackheath, Cradley and Old Hill. Each area has its own identity, but what’s been consistent is the impact of creating safe, welcoming spaces where children and young people can access free play in their own community.

At its core, Go Play Sandwell provides inclusive, high-quality play opportunities across the borough. As a delivery partner, Sporting Your Futures has brought experience in sport and youth engagement — but Go Play has broadened our perspective, reminding us that play is most powerful when it’s child-led, open and accessible to all.

A big part of that journey has been the training Go Play provides. It’s been genuinely enhancing — developing our understanding of inclusion, safeguarding and child-led practice. It’s encouraged us to reflect on how we deliver sessions and how we create environments where every child feels valued. That learning has helped us break down barriers locally, particularly in areas with diverse cultures and backgrounds. Play has become a common language, bringing together young people from different ethnicities, faiths and experiences in a shared space of respect and fun.

Across the three years, we’ve seen confidence grow week by week. Children who once stood back now lead games. Families return because they feel comfortable and welcome. Trust has been built simply by being present and consistent.

Alongside weekly sessions, supporting the Shape Festival during the summer was a real highlight, as well as contributing to a range of community fun days and holiday events. These larger moments allowed us to extend the reach of Go Play and celebrate play on an even bigger scale.

Looking back, I feel proud of what we’ve contributed across Rowley Regis. Delivering Go Play has reinforced something we strongly believe at Sporting Your Futures — that play isn’t an extra. It’s essential. It builds confidence, resilience and stronger communities.

And being part of that over the last three years has been a privilege