Special Olympics Australia Highlights Intellectual Disability on IDPwD Day
Australians living with an intellectual disability or autism are being encouraged to join their local inclusive sports team, as part of celebrations for International Day of People with Disability (3rd December).
With over 45 clubs nationwide and 3,000 registered athletes, Special Olympics Australia runs sports clubs for people with an intellectual disability or autism such as swimming, athletics, dance, football, equestrian, bocce, netball, golf, and more.
Speaking about her daughter’s success as part of the Special Olympics Australia swimming club, Elodie’s mum, Corrie Sebire, who is also a volunteer with the local Special Olympics Australia club, commented, Elodie joined swimming when she was eight years old. She was very shy to start with and would insist on swimming in her lane away from other people. But after a few weeks, we met so many wonderful athletes who were successful in their sports and helped inspire Elodie.
Elodie now trains 4 days a week and competes in 50m and 100m races. She also swam at the NSW All Schools Championships this year and will be competing at the Australian National Multiclass Age Championships on the Gold Coast in 2024, as a swimmer with an intellectual disability, continued Corrie.
By creating a space and opportunity for people with an intellectual disability or autism to play sport, together we can open the door to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for some of the traditionally marginalized and isolated members of our community. I’d encourage anyone who thinks they may enjoy joining a sports team to sign up now, continued Pierre Comis, CEO of Special Olympics Australia.
To sign up to a club near you or support athletes with an intellectual disability and autism, visit www.specialolympics.com.au.
About Special Olympics
Special Olympics began in Australia in 1976 when many people with an intellectual disability were shut in institutions. While this is no longer the norm in Australia, we continue to seek public support to ensure that people with an intellectual disability and autism are not shut out. By helping us give them opportunities to play sports, together we can open the door to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion.
