What the gut?
A Gut Feeling: My Personal Journey to a Happier Mind and Body
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Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C. is more than just a place to get active; it's a community hub where everyone is welcome to connect, play, and thrive. We believe that well-being is a journey, not a destination, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
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Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting out, our inclusive sports programmes, including badminton and pickleball, offer a fun and supportive environment to get moving and make new friends. But we're more than just sports! We also host a variety of wellness activities designed to reduce social isolation and bring people together. From "Wellness Wind Down" gatherings to creative "Paint n Sip" nights, we offer something for everyone.
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We hold sessions and events at various venues throughout Daventry, including Daventry Leisure Centre, DSLV School, and Parker School. Our schedule is dynamic, with new sessions and events added regularly.
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Our focus is on building a supportive community where kindness fuels change.
Your Team.
We're more than just a sports club; we're a family. Get to know the friendly faces behind Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C. – the people who are dedicated to making your experience fun, supportive, and unforgettable.
Kate Vincent
Lead Director & Founder
Gary Birch
Director of Membership & Pickleball Development
Mat Biddle
Director of Social Media & Community
Barry Dow
Director of Community Relations & Events
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Our
Story
It all began with a simple badminton game...
Kate Vincent, a passionate advocate for health and well-being, joined a local sports club with a friend, eager for some friendly competition and exercise. But what should have been a positive experience quickly turned sour. As the session ended, the club leader approached them, singling out Kate's friend and stating that her skill level wasn't "up to par" with the rest of the group. Kate was stunned. This wasn't the welcoming and inclusive environment she'd hoped for.
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That moment sparked a fire in Kate. She realised that many people, especially those new to sports or lacking confidence, were being excluded from the joy of movement and the benefits of an active lifestyle. Driven by a deep sense of fairness and a passion for community, Kate decided to create something different – a space where everyone felt welcome, regardless of their ability.
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In 2020, Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C. was born. Starting with badminton sessions in a local school hall, Kate fostered an atmosphere of encouragement and support. Word spread quickly, and soon the sessions were buzzing with laughter, friendly competition, and a growing sense of community.
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But Kate's vision extended beyond just sports. Recognising the power of connection to combat social isolation and boost mental well-being, she began organising social events, from casual pub gatherings to creative "Paint n Sip" nights. Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C. became a haven for those seeking not only physical activity but also a sense of belonging.
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In March 2024, with the support of dedicated shareholders Gary, Mat, and Barry, the organisation officially registered as a non-profit Community Interest Company (CIC). This solidified their commitment to reinvesting profits back into the community, expanding their reach, and making a lasting impact on the well-being of Daventry residents.
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Today, Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C. continues to thrive, offering a diverse range of activities, securing grants, partnering with local organisations, and inspiring countless individuals to embrace a healthier and more connected lifestyle. It's a testament to the power of one person's vision to create positive change and build a truly inclusive community.
What we offer.
Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C. provides a unique blend of sports, social activities, and a supportive atmosphere to help you improve your fitness, reduce stress, make new friends, and discover new passions.
Pickleball
What is Pickleball?
Imagine a game that combines the best of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. That's pickleball! It's a fun, fast-paced paddle sport that's easy to learn, low impact and surprisingly addictive.
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How to Play:
Pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court with a lower net. You use a solid paddle to hit a perforated plastic ball (similar to a wiffle ball) back and forth over the net. The goal is to score points by landing the ball in your opponent's court.
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Equipment:
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Paddle: A solid paddle, larger than a ping-pong paddle but smaller than a tennis racket.
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Ball: A lightweight, perforated plastic ball.
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Court: A badminton-sized court with a net set at 36 inches high at the sidelines and 34 inches high in the middle.
Where it's Played:
Pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors. At Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C., we play indoors on a badminton court.
We've Got You Covered:
No need to worry about equipment! We provide everything you need to get started. Plus, our three dedicated pickleball leaders, Kate, Mat, and Gary, are all certified with Pickleball England and ready to help you learn the ropes and have a blast!
Badminton
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What is Badminton?
Badminton is a fast-paced racquet sport that combines athleticism, strategy, and quick reflexes. It's played with two opposing players (singles) or two opposing pairs (doubles), who take positions on opposite halves of a rectangular court divided by a net.
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How to Play:
Players score points by striking a shuttlecock with their racquet so that it passes over the net and lands in their opponent's half of the court. A rally ends once the shuttlecock hits the ground.
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Equipment:
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Racquet: A lightweight racquet with a strung head.
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Shuttlecock: A cone-shaped object with feathers or a synthetic skirt, designed to fly through the air.
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Court: A rectangular court divided by a net.
Where it's Played:
Badminton is typically played indoors on a marked court. At Daventry Wellness & Sports C.I.C., we play in a spacious sports hall.
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We've Got You Covered:
No need to worry about equipment! We provide everything you need to get started. Plus, our experienced badminton leaders are always on hand to help you learn the game and improve your skills.
Wellness
Wind
Down
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What is a Wellness Wind Down?
A Wellness Wind Down is a dedicated space for relaxation, connection, and escaping the everyday hustle. It's about prioritising your well-being, both mentally and socially, in a supportive and enjoyable environment.
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How it Works:
Imagine a casual gathering where you can unwind, chat with friendly faces, and participate in activities designed to de-stress and spark joy. Our Wellness Wind Downs often involve:
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Socialising in a relaxed setting (like a local pub)
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Engaging in creative activities (like our "Paint n Sip" nights)
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Enjoying nature with group walks
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Simply taking a break and connecting with like-minded people
What You Need:
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An open mind and a willingness to connect with others.
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A desire to prioritise your well-being and have some fun.
Where it Happens:
Wellness Wind Downs take place at various locations, including cosy pubs, community spaces, and scenic outdoor spots.
We've Got You Covered:
We provide a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you have a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Our Blog
Delve into our blog and explore thought-provoking articles that challenge conventional wisdom about health, wellness, and fitness. We'll inspire you to reconsider your assumptions and discover new perspectives on your journey to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
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