Strength Academy Wales (SAW Cymru), a member club of Weightlifting Wales, were the delightful recipients last week of an award for national recognition with the Outstanding Impact: Improving Health and Wellbeing award at the Sported UK Awards recently, celebrating the club’s impact in its local community.

Volunteer-led community sport continues to play a vital role in strengthening communities across Wales, and SAW Cymru has been proudly highlighted as a standout example at the recent ceremony held at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

The event, organised and hosted by Sported, recognises the outstanding impact of grassroots sports organisations, many of which are driven by dedicated volunteers who give their time, expertise and passion to create safe, inclusive, and empowering environments for young people and communities. From improving physical wellbeing and mental health to fostering social connections and developing life skills, volunteer-led clubs are a cornerstone of community resilience.

SAW Cymru was recognised for its exceptional contribution to community sport in Wales, celebrating its commitment to supporting young people and communities through accessible, inclusive weightlifting and strength-based activities. The organisation has built a strong reputation for using sport as a vehicle for positive change, helping individuals to build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.

The award was presented by Jessica Williams, Head of Service and Partner Development at Sport Wales, underlining the importance of partnership and collaboration in supporting grassroots sport across the nation.

Simon Roach, Chief Operating Officer at Weightlifting Wales, commented:

“On behalf of Weightlifting Wales, I would like to congratulate the volunteers at Strength Academy Wales on this well-deserved award.

“The recognition reflects the dedication and commitment of the volunteers, coaches and participants who have helped create a welcoming community that is improving lives through strength-based activity.

“It is also encouraging to see the growing impact that weightlifting and strength-based clubs are having within communities across Wales. More and more clubs are now delivering programmes that support people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, helping people to become healthier, more active and better connected.

“We are delighted to see Strength Academy Wales recognised for this important work.”

Richard Thomas, National Manager for Wales at Sported, added:

“This recognition reflects the incredible dedication of volunteer-led clubs like Strength Academy Wales. Across Wales, volunteers are transforming lives every day, creating safe spaces, inspiring young people, and strengthening communities. Strength Academy Wales exemplifies how sport can be a powerful force for good.”

To view more about the awards hosts, Sported UK, and the brilliant work they do, visit their website here.