Denis Law Legacy Games 2026 launched at Aberdeen Sports Village (ASV) on Friday 10 July with the successful introduction of “Play Your Way”, a brand-new inclusive sports day delivered in partnership between the Denis Law Legacy Trust and fellow Aberdeen-based charity, We Too!.
The successful collaboration between the two charities highlighted the need for a different approach, recognising that traditional sports days have often felt overwhelming or inaccessible for children and young people with additional support needs.
For many, the pressure of racing, competing or taking part in fast-paced, structured activities had previously created anxiety and feelings of exclusion.
The event welcomed 40 local children and young people with additional support needs (ASN) to enjoy sport in a fun, flexible and accessible way.
Activities included Beat the Goalie, badminton, obstacle courses, an egg and spoon race, and netball. Designed by We Too!, “Play Your Way” encouraged participants to engage in ways that felt comfortable to them, whether taking an active role or exploring at their own pace.
Phionna McInnes, Chief Encouragement Officer at We Too! said: “Play Your Way was everything we hoped it would be and more. Seeing 40 children and young people enjoying 12 different activities in an environment where there was no pressure to compete, no expectations to fit in, and every opportunity to simply be themselves was incredibly special.
"This event was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared commitment to inclusion.
"We are hugely grateful to Denis Law Legacy Trust, our amazing volunteers and everyone who helped make Play Your Way such a success.
"We would absolutely love to see this become an annual event, giving even more children and young people with additional support needs the opportunity to discover new activities, build confidence and create lasting memories."
Staff and volunteers played a key role in creating a supportive atmosphere, offering encouragement, adapting activities where needed, and responding sensitively to individual needs. This approach helped foster a sense of safety and belonging, ensuring that everyone felt valued, respected and included throughout the day.
Unlike conventional sports days, “Play Your Way” placed no emphasis on competition or performance. Instead, the event focused on creating an environment where every participant could feel safe, supported and successful, reflecting the core values and mission of the Denis Law Legacy Trust.
Mark William, Chief Operating Officer from Denis Law Legacy Trust, shared: “Seeing Play Your Way come to life has been incredibly special. I would like to thank everyone who helped make today possible – our partners at We Too!, Aberdeen Sports Village and of course the staff, volunteers, families and supporters who all played a part in creating such a welcoming and inclusive environment for young people.
"The smiles, confidence and enjoyment on display throughout the day showed exactly why opportunities like this are so important.
"I am extremely proud that, together, we have been able to deliver an event where every child and young person felt valued, supported and able to participate in a way that suited them.
"That spirit of inclusion, kindness and community sits at the heart of everything we do and reflects the values Denis stood for throughout his life. To be able to honour Denis' legacy by creating positive experiences and opportunities for young people across Aberdeen is something we never take for granted, and today was a fantastic example of that in action.”
Following its successful launch, both the Denis Law Legacy Trust and We Too! look forward to making “Play Your Way” an annual fixture of the Denis Law Legacy Games.