We were delighted to partner with Youth Work Midlands Ireland – Mullingar Youth Project this summer to provide a variety of activities and programmes this summer as part of the national campaigns Girls Get Active and Her Moves.
It was wonderful to be able to offer a chance to the girls to be part of programme aimed at encouraging, inspiring, empowering, and supporting them to be active. Throughout the programme, the team at the Youth Project worked with teenagers to build their confidence and motivate them to find activities they enjoy.
Below you’ll find some details of the activities provided throughout the summer.
Week 1: Warm-Up and Football Fun
The first session in mid-July started with gentle stretches and a few laps around the astro turf pitch to gauge fitness levels. Once everyone was loosened up, the group decided they wanted to play football and even though it was ‘non-competitive,’ a few competitive streaks definitely shone through on the day!
Week 2 : Baysports Waterpark Adventure
The group enjoyed a trip to Baysports Waterpark in Athlone, County Roscommon. It was one of those rare Irish summer days when the sun did appear for a few hours which really helped in making it a special day for everyone. Despite varying swimming abilities, the teens had a fantastic day, enjoying the water slides, climbing, and swimming, all under the watchful eyes of the park staff.
Week 3: Exploring Fore Abbey
A day trip to Fore Abbey in Castlepollard included a scenic forest and nature walk along St. Feichin’s Way. Despite the rainy weather, the group (and some of the older ladies) enjoyed exploring the abbey and playing hide and seek. The activity trackers certainly clocked up a lot of Kms that day!
Week 4: The Cube Activity
On a sunny day, local coach Danny organized activities inspired by the TV show “The Cube.” The girls participated in various skill and speed challenges.
One activity encouraged the teenagers to pick up all the cones of the same colours as fast as they could, and the times were put on a scoreboard to see who was the fastest.
Another activity involved a bag of balls which was scattered everywhere and had to be collected and put back in the bag as quickly as possible.
It was a wonderful day and everyone got a chance to show their fun and competitive sides while working as a team.
Week 5: Football Activities
Back by popular demand, the group returned to the astro pitch for more football. The session included a full-pitch game and a penalty shootout, keeping the girls engaged and active.
Week 6: Football Rounders
To mix things up, the teenagers played football rounders, combining elements of football and rounders. The group enjoyed working together in teams and trying out this new twist on a familiar sport.
Weeks 7 & 8: More Football and Relay Running
The final weeks featured more football games and relay running activities. After intense cardio exercises, the girls cooled down with light stretches and a slow jog.
Success
The Her Moves programme was a resounding success, providing a no-judgement zone where each girl found an activity she enjoyed.
The girls had fun with their friends, mixing movement with fun, which is at the core of this programme.
Thanks to everyone at Youth Work Midlands Ireland – Mullingar Youth Project for their support and assistance.