Sports clubs recognised for positive impact

"Women come out of boxercise feeling awesome," says Phoenix Rising founder Claire Lear

Sporting clubs are being recognised for making a change to people's physical and mental wellbeing.

Four organisations have been nominated for the Active Award in BBC Radio Devon's 2025 Make a Difference Awards.

Phoenix Rising in Torbay, Pisces Swimming Club and the Groovement Project, both in Plymouth, and Devon Deaf Rugby are all up for the award.

They were nominated by members of the community ahead of a ceremony on 25 September.

Matthew Pitcher said Devon Deaf Rugby gave players "the freedom to express themselves"

Devon Deaf Rugby is the first county-based team in the country, organisers said.

"There's only Wales Deaf, England Deaf and Devon Deaf," said Matthew Pitcher, one of the team's coaches.

"We've seen so many deaf players who haven't played before join this club.

"They have the freedom to express themselves - it's just so good for their mental health and wellbeing. I just love it."

The positive impact of physical activity is also the motivation for activities run by Phoenix Rising in Torbay.

Set up by trained sports scientist Claire Lear, survivors of domestic abuse are encouraged into recovery through exercise.

"When you've been through trauma, your body and your mind are not connected," she said.

"Working with the body brings them both together, so it's like a full package of recovery."

"Boxercise" is among a range of activities including paddle-boarding, yoga and swimming offered by the club.

Ms Lead said: "Women come out of boxercise feeling awesome – a little bit more powerful.

"It's amazing to watch."

The Groovement Project welcomes more than 100 dancers each week in Plymouth

In Plymouth, the Groovement Project brings children, young people and adults into dance, offering more than 40 dance sessions every week.

Set up by dancers Ellen Coulter and Drew Shears, the project has grown from 11 participants to now welcoming more than 100 each week into purpose-built studio spaces in the city centre.

"We're doing our best to create great people as well as great dancers," said co-founder Drew Shears.

Co-founder Ellen Coulton added: "We call ourselves a home of opportunity, because we pride ourselves on really trying to provide opportunities for young people, so that they can thrive."

Irene Wills runs Plymouth Pisces Club, which helps make swimming more accessible for disabled people

The Plymouth Pisces Club is entering its 40th year making swimming more accessible for disabled people.

The club began at the Ballard Pool in 1987, before moving to Plymouth Life Centre.

Irene Wills, who runs the club, said: "We all look out for each other.

"This club gives everyone the same opportunities as anyone else – and that's the important thing."