Rugby Academy Graduation - Celebrating commitment and dedication at HMP Dovegate

The Visits Hall at HMP Dovegate was brimming with energy and a sense of accomplishment as we celebrated the conclusion of our eight-week Rugby Academy. Family and friends gathered in full force, creating an atmosphere that was as heartwarming as it was rewarding!

Our wonderful ACAMs (Assistant Coaches and Mentors) played an integral role in the celebration, assisting with the presentation and ensuring that each graduate received their moment of recognition. Their continued support was acknowledged individually, as they themselves keep growing - strengthening their skills, developing positive behaviours, and contributing to delivery through planning, running sessions, and offering a steady, constructive influence on the prison wings. These men have become dependable in-custody peer role models as part of 3Pillars team at HMP Dovegate, offering support with quiet assurance and stepping in wherever they’re needed.

The graduation had 90 guests attending and catered for - it’’s safe to say that not a single chicken burger was left in sight! There were familiar faces, as the ACAMs family members joined in to celebrate the day, with one Mum coming all the way from Canada and planning her trip around this date so that she could be part of it.

Beyond the delicious food, the day was filled with recognition and heartfelt connections. Three awards, aligned with our 3Pillars of Exercise, Ethos, and Education, were also presented to the men who made the most meaningful progress in each area. All tokens of the hard work, dedication, and progress achieved over the past two months.

The emotional highlights came in quiet moments between the celebrations and expressions of pride. One participant reflected that it was the first time in six years he had sat next to his wife and children on a visit, rather than opposite them, a reminder of the powerful connections that our programme nurtures. 

The celebration wasn’t all speeches and presentations. There were interactive games, a quiz, and plenty of smiles ensured that the room was filled with joy, friendly competition, and full hearts, as well as full stomachs! It was a day where achievements were truly celebrated, bonds were strengthened, and the sense of community within HMP Dovegate shone brightly.

This graduation represented more than the end of a rugby programme, it was a celebration of determination, teamwork, and commitment. Moments like these show why our Rugby Academy programme really matters, it doesn’t just teach the game, it fosters positive behaviours, experiences and memories that last a lifetime and unite families/friends and the 3Pillars Project community as one.

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