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.