Our latest sports day included a football match full of community spirit, laughter, and personal achievement. Read how it brought everyone together in the rain and ended in celebration.
Sports Day in Wakefield: A Match to Remember
Welcare’s recent sports day was all about connection, confidence, and celebration. Held on a football pitch in Wakefield, we brought together our staff and young people – both current residents and care leavers, for a friendly football match that truly captured the heart of our work.
Even with the rain pouring down (classic British weather!), the mood was joyful and determined. The pitch may have been slippery, but the spirit was strong. Every smile, tackle, and cheer was a reminder of why we host these events: to help young people feel part of something positive and powerful.
Building Belonging Through Football
Our sports day wasn’t just about scoring goals. It was about building self-esteem, showing support, and creating safe spaces for expression and connection. One young person summed it up perfectly:
“Being part of the team made me feel like I belonged.”
This simple statement reflects the core of our approach at Welcare. Events like this offer more than entertainment. They provide life-affirming experiences that help young people build trust, feel included, and grow in confidence.
Custom Kits and Real Celebration
In the run-up to sports day, our young people helped design their own football jerseys, created in-house especially for the match. These weren’t just shirts. They were symbols of identity, pride, and ownership.
The game itself was fast-paced, competitive, and full of good humour. The young people’s team came out on top, lifting their trophy with pride. Mini awards were also handed out to celebrate individual contributions – from teamwork to perseverance.
The cheering didn’t stop there. Our Home Manager and Brand Ambassador were on the sidelines the entire time, encouraging both teams and helping create a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Rain-Soaked, Heart-Warmed
While everyone left a little soggy, no one left disappointed. The weather couldn’t wash away the laughter or dampen the sense of achievement. Sports day gave staff and young people a shared moment to bond, laugh, and celebrate what they’ve overcome together.
And what’s next? Plans are already in motion for a rematch. Everyone’s keen to get back on the pitch – not just for the fun, but for the chance to come together again.
Why Sports Day Matters at Welcare
At Welcare, every sports day is about far more than sport. It’s about giving young people the opportunity to feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether it’s designing a kit, scoring a goal, or simply showing up, every action counts.
These events are part of our wider therapeutic care approach, helping children and young people heal, thrive, and find joy in everyday moments.
We know that feeling part of a team can make all the difference. It builds confidence, creates connection, and reminds our young people they matter.
Keep Updated with Welcare Events
Want to read more about how we celebrate young people’s successes? Visit our Our News page to explore more real-life stories, events, and highlights from across Welcare Children’s Homes.
