Leighton Buzzard Rotary’s “Yes We Can” sports programme marks 8 years of inclusive success
The Leighton-Linslade Rotary Club is celebrating eight years of its pioneering “Yes We Can” initiative, which continues to break barriers and create inclusive sporting opportunities for those people with a disability. Since it’s launch in 2017, the programme has grown into one of the largest integrated pan-disability sports network in Bedfordshire, offering accessible,affordable, and sustainable activities for all.
2025 was a year of milestones
This summer saw the first full season of Game Changers Cricket, delivered by Cublington Cricket Club. Families enjoyed Saturday morning sessions in beautiful surroundings, and the fun will continue indoors at Cottesloe School throughout the winter. In another major development, Mixed Ability Rugby, run by Leighton Buzzard Rugby Club, officially joined the Yes We Can family, making rugby the eighth sport in the programme’s eighth year.
Celebrating Achievement
The annual Oscars Awards Ceremony, held in September at Brooklands Residents Club and sponsored by the wonderful Osborne Morris & Morgan Solicitors, was a joyful showcase of talent and teamwork. Over 150 participants, families, and guests including the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and the Town Mayor came together to celebrate the fantastic sporting achievements. A record number of medals and trophies were awarded, with special recognition for Joe Langdon, winner of the OMM Special Award for his inspirational contribution as both a player and a coach as well as being a fantastic runner!
Eight Sports, Endless Opportunities
From football and cricket to golf, hockey, sailing, swimming, tennis, and now rugby, theprogramme offers something for everyone. Highlights this year include:
- Football: Weekly sessions for over 30 players and Bobi League success.
- Golf: A thriving group led by professional coach Kevin, complete with skill challenges
- and a mini championship.
- Hockey: Flyerz sessions with Leighton Buzzard Hockey Club, supported by Osborne
- Morris & Morgan Solicitors.
- Sailing: Despite weather challenges, MK Sailability kept spirits high and welcomed
- new faces.
- Swimming & Tennis: Growing participation and confidence-building opportunities
- thanks to dedicated coaches and local clubs.
Community Outreach
“Yes We Can” is more than sport—it’s a community. The programme now reaches groups such as High 5’s, Friends Within, BIGG, Freddie & Friends, Tibbs Dementia, Parkinson’s, and Mencap Summer Camp, ensuring that inclusion extends beyond the playing field.
Looking Ahead
Rotary President summed up the spirit of YWC:
“This initiative is about more than eight sports—it’s about creating confidence, friendships,
and opportunities for everyone.”
With the continued support of local clubs, sponsors, and volunteers, Leighton-Linslade is
leading the way in inclusive sport. To learn more or get involved, visit the Rotary Club of
Leighton-Linslade website and help spread the word: Yes We Can—because together, we
do.
If you would like to find out more about the Yes We Can program you can leave Yes We Can
a message on their Facebook page or contact Sandra on tahomasandra@icloud.com.
- New Year Events in Leighton Buzzard
Whether you are looking for an intimate affair or a rip roaring party, here’s what going on for the New Year as we bring in 2026. Eat, Drink… Read more: New Year Events in Leighton Buzzard - Baby and Toddler Groups in Leighton Buzzard
Leighton Buzzard has a fantastic range of baby and toddler groups. From singing to swimming, theatre to sports, and art to play sessions, there’s something for every parent… Read more: Baby and Toddler Groups in Leighton Buzzard - Leighton Buzzard shop shut down after repeated sale of illegal tobacco
In this latest press release from Central Bedfordshire the same business has been closed for 3 months despite it being closed twice before. On 2 December, Central Bedfordshire… Read more: Leighton Buzzard shop shut down after repeated sale of illegal tobacco - Kettle On For Men In Shed’s Open Evening
Since starting up just over a year ago, the Leighton Buzzard & District Men’s Shed has rapidly grown into one of the area’s key wellbeing and social resources.… Read more: Kettle On For Men In Shed’s Open Evening - Residents asked to have their say in council tax support consultation
Central Bedfordshire Council has launched a consultation on its Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTS) for working-age claimants. The scheme helps working age residents on low incomes by reducing… Read more: Residents asked to have their say in council tax support consultation
