Lauren Porter's Journey with Hi5! and Mixed Ability Rugby: 
“Hi5 has helped shape Lauren and continues to support her in ways that I can't.”

Meet Lauren Porter, a vibrant young woman who has been part of the Bath Rugby Foundation family since just before her 16th birthday. Encouraged to join the Hi5! programme while attending Threeways School, Lauren found her passion for rugby and joined the Bath Ladies Trojans (BLTs). Now 21, she continues to thrive in the inclusive and supportive environment offered by these programmes.

Challenges and Growth: Lauren faces a range of challenges, including learning disabilities, autism, anxiety, hypermobility, auditory hypersensitivity, and visual perception difficulties. Additionally, she contends with a complex family life; her father has significant physical disabilities requiring frequent surgeries, and her brother has a rare disorder. Despite these hurdles, rugby has become a crucial outlet for Lauren, helping her to manage her anxiety and build confidence.

Before joining BLTs, Lauren struggled with going outside, especially in the rain. However, her involvement in rugby has transformed this fear—now, she eagerly steps out onto the pitch, rain or shine, without panic. The structure and community of Hi5! have been invaluable to both Lauren and her family, providing her with focus and offering her mother, Sam, much-needed respite.

The Impact of Hi5!: Lauren absolutely adores the Hi5! sessions, especially the Monday sports and social meetups, and the Tuesday dance sessions, which she loves nearly as much. Hi5! has not only broadened her knowledge and enthusiasm for sports but has also introduced her to a new circle of friends who have become like family.

A Mother's Perspective: Sam Porter reflects on the profound impact that Hi5! has had on Lauren's life: “Hi5 has helped shape Lauren and continues to support her in ways that I can't.”

Lauren’s journey with Hi5! and Mixed Ability Rugby exemplifies the positive change that inclusive sports can bring, helping individuals like Lauren overcome personal challenges and thrive in a supportive community.