Sport Caerphilly and Welsh Boxing have been honoured at the Welsh Sports Association (WSA) Sports Industry Awards 2026, securing the Best Innovation Award for their VR Adaptive Boxing project. This initiative, delivered through schools across Caerphilly County Borough, leverages virtual reality technology to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of boxing, effectively removing participation barriers and creating new opportunities for young people to engage in physical activity.
Project Aims and Impact
The programme aligns with the council's Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 2019-2029, which seeks to boost participation and ensure that opportunities for physical activity are available to all residents. By offering a safe, engaging, and adaptable introduction to boxing, the VR Adaptive Boxing project enables young people of all abilities to experience the physical and wellbeing benefits of the sport.
Official Recognition
Cllr Chris Morgan, cabinet member for Sport and Leisure, said: “At the heart of this project is giving young people more opportunities to take part in sport. By working with Welsh Boxing and using innovative technology, we're helping pupils across the county borough experience boxing in a way that is engaging, accessible and inclusive.”
Consecutive Success
This award marks the second consecutive Best Innovation Award for Sport Caerphilly, following last year's success for the introduction of SWIMTAG across the county borough's leisure centres. The VR Adaptive Boxing project continues to demonstrate how technology can transform traditional sports into inclusive activities that cater to diverse needs.
