Newport young people inspired by once-in-a-lifetime Commonwealth Games experience
Six young people from Newport have returned home with unforgettable memories after being given the opportunity to experience world-class sport at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, thanks to Positive Futures, a sport-based social inclusion programme delivered by WSA member Newport Live.
On 29th July, the group, accompanied by Positive Futures staff, set off from Newport International Sports Village for Glasgow, embarking on a seven-hour journey to meet Team Wales at the YOTEL Glasgow.
The six young people earned their place on the trip through their regular attendance at Positive Futures mentoring sessions in Newport, and for their ongoing commitment to volunteering within their local community sport programme. The opportunity was designed to recognise their dedication while providing an inspirational experience to broaden horizons and demonstrate what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and resilience.
During their time in Glasgow, the group received a warm welcome from Team Wales and enjoyed a packed itinerary of world-class sporting action. They attended several events, including boxing, cycling, weightlifting, and athletics, witnessing elite athletes compete on one of the biggest sporting stages in the world.
The experience went far beyond watching sport. It provided the young people with the opportunity to explore a new city, build confidence, develop independence, and gain first-hand insight into the commitment and perseverance required to perform at the highest level.
Team Wales and YOTEL Glasgow also helped create a memorable additional experience for some of the young people, giving them the chance to make pizza alongside the hotel chef. The chef recognised how much the opportunity meant to the group and helped make their stay even more special.
The visit was inspired and supported by Positive Futures Ambassador and former Dragons Rugby player Ashton Hewitt, whose vision and determination helped turn the opportunity into a reality.
Lucy Donovan, Positive Futures Development Manager, said:
“This trip was about much more than attending a major sporting event. It was about creating opportunities, raising aspirations, and showing young people what is possible when they commit themselves to positive choices and give back to their communities. The young people represented Newport brilliantly and returned home inspired, motivated, and full of confidence for the future.”
Ashton Hewitt, Positive Futures Ambassador, added:
“From start to finish Glasgow 2026 was brilliant – but personally nothing put more of a smile on my face than witnessing first-hand the experience the young people had.
“Taking them to the Games, showing them what’s out there in the world beyond their doorstep and seeing the impact that had demonstrated the power of sport, the power of organisations taking social responsibility, and the power of giving people in difficult circumstances some trust and care.”
The group had the unique opportunity to meet members and athletes of Team Wales and experience the atmosphere of Team Wales House, where they were made to feel incredibly welcome throughout their stay.
The young people returned home with lasting memories, newfound confidence, and a greater appreciation of the opportunities that can be achieved through perseverance, dedication, and positive engagement within their communities.
A Positive Futures spokesperson commented:
“We would like to extend a huge thank you to Commonwealth Games Team Wales for arranging the tickets that enabled the group to watch the sporting events, and for their outstanding hospitality throughout the visit. Sincere thanks are also given to YOTEL Glasgow for generously providing rooms for the group and helping make the experience such a memorable one. Special thanks are also extended to Ashton Hewitt for championing the opportunity and to Edwards Coaches for kindly providing and funding transport.”
Through opportunities such as this, Positive Futures continues to provide young people with inspirational experiences that encourage personal growth, broaden aspirations, and highlight the positive pathways available through sport, volunteering, and community engagement.
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