Suffolk Spartans Power Lifting Club was originally set up in 2007 in partnership with Optua Leisure in Suffolk and is affiliated to British Weight Lifters Association (BWLA). Achieving Clubmark accreditation in 2008, the Club is run as a non-profitable organisation. Spartans currently has 15 members - many of whom have a disability, which includes physical, sensory and/or learning. Spartans cater for a large and varied range of disabilities.

Enjoyed by both men and women in over 78 countries around the world, Power lifting is described as the ultimate strength sport. It is distinct from Weightlifting - a technical sport consisting of three events; the squat, the bench-press and the deadlift. Power lifting evolved from a sport known as ‘odd lifts', which followed the same three-attempt format but using a wide variety of events akin to Strongman events. Eventually odd lifts became standardised to the three events (squat, bench, deadlift) and became known as Power lifting, which has been a Paralympic Sport since 1984.

During the accreditation process, the Club was initially guided and supported by Suffolk Sport. The CSP gave information and guidance by breaking down the amount of work required. It also ensured the evidence and implementation within the Club was at a high standard.

One of the Club's key actions was the establishment of a ‘competition route' for those members that wish to pursue their competitive goals, whilst no one is pushed into competition; good success has been found with those that have taken this route. It also established its own Club Competitions, so that those participants not eligible to compete in official competitions have the opportunity to experience competition and succeed by winning a trophy in recognition of their efforts.

Through the Clubmark process, the Club has improved its procedures, has a more professional approach when dealing with new members, which consequently has improved its overall image - especially with parents. Achieving accreditation has led to an increase in publicity for Spartans. As some members are now beginning to travel abroad for competitions, they hope this raised profile will assist members in attracting funding for competition expenses as well as additional equipment.

When asked what they would do differently next time, Louise Pennell feels that with hindsight she could have benefited from the involvement of more club members in the process. She led the application and collection of evidence and although had support and help from others within the club, there were restrictions surrounding communication skills of some members as well as time pressures. She would advise other clubs going through a similar situation to get more representatives from the Club Committee involved.

Louise said, "The process of obtaining Clubmark requires a great deal of effort, which is why it's vital to have the club behind you as a whole in order to make this work. Having been through the process it makes you look closely at your club and review the policies and procedures you already have in place. No matter how good you think yours are they can always be better and this continuous monitoring and improvement ensures that you are providing the best that you can for all your members. The pride you get from knowing that the club is professional and up to the standard is immeasurable."