St Mary's hosts Panathlon Competition

Physical and Sport Education (PSE) students from St Mary’s University, Twickenham recently helped support the Panathlon Challenge London competition which took place on campus. The competition involved 160 children from 20 local Special Educational Needs schools across eight boroughs. The school aged children competed in a range of Panathlon adapted sports to progress to the London Champions Cup final in June. The event was a great experience for the PSE students who received training in how to support and officiate Panathlon adapted sports such as Poly Bat, Table Cricket, Boccia, New Age Kurling & Adapted Athletics. On the day, PSE students were involved in set-up, officiating and medal presentations during the event with Paralympian Helen Turner. Panathlon Co-ordinator Tony Waymouth said, “The Panathlon Foundation’s programmers fit with The St Mary’s philosophy and their increasing involvement with this target group, together we are ideally positioned to compliment and develop provision for young severely disabled people.” PSE Graduate Assistant Alex Monk said “The event was an all-round success and couldn’t have happened without the time and support from PSE student volunteers. Students were commended by a number of school representatives and organisers for their professional attitude and commitment throughout the event.” Following the success of the event, the students have been asked to support the London final Multi-Sports Plate and Championship on Thursday 16^th June at the Copper Box Arena. St Mary’s and the PSE team will be supporting future Panathlon competitions and working closely with Panathlon schools throughout the programme.