Team England's Glasgow 2026 Legacy Programme got underway on Tuesday 20th October as Commonwealth Games Gold Medallists Kelly Petersen-Pollard and Ethan Nairne joined residents in Lichfield, demonstrating how sport can inspire people, break down barriers to participation and bring communities together. More than 40 people from across the area took part in a series of Finding Your Feet sessions designed to build confidence, improve balance and help people stay active and connected.
Delivered in partnership with British Judo and MoveMojo, the day centred around Finding Your Feet, a programme that uses adapted judo-based activities to improve balance, build confidence and teach people how to fall safely. Designed to help people stay active, independent and connected, the sessions introduced participants to practical skills they could apply in everyday life.
Participants ranged in age from 12 to over 80 and included young people from Braidwood Trust School for Deaf Children, individuals with learning disabilities supported by Creative Choices, local residents and community volunteers from across the Lichfield area. A further 15 people attended to observe the sessions.
Led by Wayne MacDonald, the sessions demonstrated how the principles of judo can support healthier, more active lifestyles. Participants learned techniques to improve balance, build confidence and reduce the risk of injury from falls in a supportive and inclusive environment.
While many participants arrived feeling apprehensive about trying something new, the atmosphere quickly became one of encouragement, laughter and achievement. Four participants enjoyed the experience so much that they returned later in the day for a second session, while many others expressed an interest in taking part again in the future.
Team England athlete Kelly Petersen-Pollard, who grew up in the West Midlands, spent the day supporting participants, sharing her experiences and highlighting the positive role sport can play in communities beyond competition:
" Days like this show why sport is so powerful. It was brilliant to meet people of all ages and abilities, share our experiences and see everyone grow in confidence throughout the session. Many of us wouldn't have had the opportunity to represent Team England without the support of our local communities, clubs and volunteers, so it's important to come back and give something back.
What stood out most was seeing people try something new, build their confidence and leave with a smile on their face. If today has helped even one person feel more positive about being active or inspired them to get involved in sport, then that's a real success.”
One of those participants was local resident Tracey Rhodes, who said the session had given her practical skills and confidence she could take into everyday life.
"I have enjoyed it. I have a number of disabilities but I have always thought you have to push yourself and I pushed myself today. Recently I have been falling and learning how to fall, or the steps to preventing injury, is really good. It is something I can take home and practise."
She added:
"The staff and the athletes have been wonderful. They were showing us the moves, helping us practise and understanding people's limitations. I was a bit apprehensive at first, but I really enjoyed it."
The sessions formed part of British Judo's Finding Your Feet programme, which supports older adults and people at risk of falls through adapted judo-based activities. By helping participants improve their balance, coordination and confidence, the programme enables people to remain active, independent and connected within their communities.
Nick Shepherd, Head of Club Support at British Judo, said:
"It was fantastic to see so many people embracing the opportunity to try something new, particularly those who may not have previously considered judo as an activity for them. Having Kelly and Ethan involved made the day even more special, demonstrating how our elite athletes can inspire and positively influence communities beyond the mat.
We're incredibly proud to be working alongside Team England and MoveMojo to deliver this initiative, showcasing the wider social value of judo and helping to create a lasting legacy of participation, inclusion and improved wellbeing.”
The event was hosted at MoveMojo's Movement Hub in Lichfield, an innovative community facility designed to make physical activity more accessible. Built around the needs of people who can find traditional sports environments challenging, the Hub provides an inclusive space where people of all ages and abilities can become more active and improve their wellbeing.
The day demonstrated the positive impact that can be achieved when athletes, community organisations and sports bodies work together. By combining the expertise of British Judo, the inclusive facilities provided by MoveMojo and the inspirational power of Team England athletes, participants were able to learn new skills, build confidence and experience the benefits of sport in a welcoming environment.
As the first of six activations within Team England's Glasgow 2026 Legacy Programme, the event showcased how athletes can continue to make a difference beyond competition, giving back to the communities that supported their journeys and helping more people see themselves reflected in the team that represents England on the international stage.
