Sportsability

The inclusive games programme bringing sport to life for all young people.

Background

The games in this programme have been widely played over a number of years in special schools and disability sports clubs. Until now, the equipment required, has not been readily available, but now, in partnership with The Camelot Foundation, the Sportsability package include specialist equipment and resource cards to enable many more young people to enjoy the activities.

The main aim of the games is to provide meaningful sporting opportunities for young people, particularly those with high support needs who many have been excluded from games programmes. Some of the games included in the Sportsability bag enjoy Paralympic status and are played by elite participants.

All the games in Sportsability provide excellent opportunities for inclusion, integrating disabled and non-disabled young people in unique sports challenges.

The Games

Boccia

A bowls-type game, played at the Paralympics and suitable for players of all abilities.

Poybat

Table-top bat and ball game aimed at young people with higher support needs.

Table Cricket

All the possibilities of cricket on a table-top aimed at children with physical impairment for whom ambulant cricket may not be an option.

Table Hockey

Suitable for young people who have physical or visual impairments, or learning disabilities.

Goalball

Active court game for visually impaired or sighted players.

The Sportsability equipment and resource cards were developed by the Youth Sport Trust in conjunction with a number of partner agencies responsible for the original development of the games in this country. These were:

• The British Boccia Federation

• British Blind Sport

• Nottingham Trent University (Polybat & Table Cricket)

Implementing the Programme

The Youth Sport Trust will work with partner agencies in Education and Disability Sport to bring the SportSability programme to young disabled people in schools all over the country.

Local Education Authorities will be encouraged to liaise with partner agencies in Disability Sport to ensure that the equipment is used to the best effect in school and community.

Further Information

Disability Sport Cymru Development Officer

Tel: 01978 297360