A SPORTS project which transformed the lives of thousands of disadvantaged Swindon teens has scooped a prestigious national award.

The Swindon branch of StreetGames, which aims to give 14 to 25-year-olds the chance to shine by taking part in sports and coaching others, was crowned Project Of The Year and shortlisted for the Volunteer Project Of The Year by the national charity at a ceremony at the University of Warwick.

Penhill’s Steven Mapstone, who is well on his way to becoming a successful football coach with the help of StreetGames, is just one of the young volunteers who has benefited from the scheme.

The 17-year-old said: “Volunteering has helped me stay out of trouble because I’m keeping busy.

“It has shown me the right path and inspired me to get qualifications and get a job in coaching.”

And 23-year-old Wayne Wood’s participation in the scheme has led to his selection to coach in local schools.

“StreetGames didn’t just change my life, but also my whole personality,” said the Toothill youngster.

“I wasn’t so polite or honest and would have hated the idea of volunteering. That’s all changed, I’ve learned so much.”

Since the scheme started two years ago, more than 1,000 young people have taken part in the free weekly sports sessions, which include football, basketball and skateboarding.

Jordan Reed, also from Toothill, said taking part in the scheme changed his life.

The 16-year-old said: “StreetGames helped me overcome a bad patch in my life and I’m so grateful that people believed in me.

“It’s an amazing project which boosted my confidence massively. You’re not judged by your past and so much encouragement is given to help you do your best.”

Nearly 100 volunteers have also got on board, giving their time in local communities.

The volunteer scheme has helped them build confidence and people skills, and many of these young people have now gone back into employment or education.

CounKeith Williams, Swindon Council’s cabinet member for corporate services and leisure, said: “Congratulations to all the young people who have engaged with this positive scheme and taken the opportunity to both improve their own lives and also give back to the community.

“Winning this award bears testimony to their energy, enthusiasm and commitment and I’m extremely proud of their achievement.”

Funding for the Swindon project is provided through grants from the Big Lottery Fund and StreetGames.

The project also works with several other partners in the town, including Swindon Town Football in the Community, Swindon Borough Council’s Youth Offending and Youth First teams, the Job Centre employability team, Inner Flame, Catch 22, The ATB Skate Warehouse, WASP, Home Tuition, Youth For Christ, Fresh Moves Project, Stonewater and Apprenticeship providers.

For more on StreetGames Swindon, follow it on Twitter — @StreetGamesSN — or call 01793 465405.