FEATURE
Motivation – the centre grew from a shared passion for fitness.
Our partnerships are about creating opportunities, building confidence and supporting the next generation to reach their full potential.”
Unique – a hub for inclusion, health and aspiration, the Dodgeball Centre is the only one of its kind in the world.
Knowing they’ re supported every time they hit the floor gives parents confidence and lets the kids play without fear.”
The flooring was funded by the PFC Trust, founded by local residents Patrick and Frances Connolly, whose support proved pivotal.
“ Without that support, we honestly don’ t know if we’ d be here today,” Stephanie admits.“ It gave other funders confidence in us and allowed the project to keep moving forward.”
Today, the centre is home to the Hartlepool Mavericks, British champions across multiple junior age groups, as well as the popular Dodgytotts sessions for younger players.
Each week, around 150 children and more than 20 adults train at the centre, with ages ranging from three upwards. The facility also offers inclusive sessions for those with learning and physical disabilities, welcomes netball and other sports teams, provides women-only training and offers a clear pathway for junior dodgeball players into adult national leagues.
When community support becomes critical Despite its success, the Dodgeball Centre receives no council or government funding. It relies on modest membership fees, grants and local business support – all while managing rising energy costs, insurance increases and unexpected repairs.
In 2023, the centre suffered a major setback when it was broken into and its security system stolen.“ That was a huge blow,” Stephanie says. Through centre director Paul Hewitson, Stephanie and Lucie met Paul Kidd, managing director of UCS Technologies. UCS donated a full CCTV system, restoring security and peace of mind.
“ Paul Kidd didn’ t hesitate,” Stephanie recalls.“ He just asked how he could help.”
Earlier this year, Paul visited the centre and agreed to become its official site sponsor. The partnership will include new signage, electric vehicle charging points and ongoing financial aid to help manage rising overheads.
“ Support like this is a lifeline,” Stephanie explains.“ It helps us cover those unseen costs without having to increase subs. Keeping sessions affordable is absolutely vital. We’ re in an area of high deprivation and for some families, finances can be a real worry.
“ We never want cost to be the reason a child can’ t take part. When companies like UCS step in, it shows our young people they matter, that people believe in them.”
Part of the revenue from the EV charging points will be reinvested into the centre, creating a sustainable loop of support that mirrors its grassroots ethos.
Says Paul:“ At UCS Technologies, supporting our local community is more than just a commitment – it’ s part of who we are. We’ re proud to sponsor a growing number of junior and grassroots clubs across Teesside, helping to nurture young talent and give back to the region- that’ s at the heart of our business.
“ Our partnerships are about creating opportunities, building confidence and supporting the next generation to reach their full potential.”
Keeping the future in play The impact of this support is already evident. Five U18 players from the centre were recently selected for the England Lions Juniors, travelling abroad in a squad of 25 chosen from across the country to compete internationally. The three girls and two boys, aged 15 to 17, returned with bronze medals.
“ For some of them, it was their first time on a plane,” Stephanie says.“ To see kids from Hartlepool standing on an international podium – that’ s something special.”
As the Dodgeball Centre looks ahead, the partnership with UCS Technologies represents more than sponsorship. It brings reassurance, stability and belief, helping keep doors open and opportunities alive.
“ This place is a lifeline,” Stephanie says simply.“ As long as we can keep it running, we’ ll keep changing lives.”
ucs-technologies. com
The voice of business in the Tees region | 81