The annual Central Parasport Festival was a huge success with 47 children and young people with hearing loss, vision impairments and physical disabilities participating and enjoying the fun filled multi-sport event.
Pupils from 30 mainstream schools travelled from across Central Scotland to Grangemouth Sports Complex to take part in this unique, fun opportunity.
Participants were delighted that the day was kicked off by a question and answer session with two exceptional young ladies, Grace Stirling (Young Start member and SDS Tutor) and Abby Cook (42nd presenter of Blue Peter) who both shared how attending the parasport festival has made a significant and positive contribution to their lives as athletes but also to their personal development as member of the SDS Young Start Programme.
Throughout the day participants were introduced to more fun through a variety of taster sessions in archery, athletics, basketball, boccia, badminton, canoeing, cycling and swimming. All sports were delivered by local sports clubs and governing bodies.
Thanks must go to the following partners, Forth Valley Disability Sport, Falkirk Council, Active Stirling, Clackmannanshire Council, clubs and governing bodies for making the event possible. A special thank you to Falkirk Council for supporting this event.
This was a farewell event for Cheryl Lappin, SDS Regional Development Manager for Central Scotland as she is moving on to work with British Curling.
She said: “The event was a fantastic success and a worthwhile experience for many pupils engaging in sports they may never have tried before, but also for their parents and teachers alike.”
Follow up support will be provided by the new SDS Regional Manager to support participants into an activity or sport of their choice in the local area.
If you would like to find out more about this event or disability sport opportunities in Central Scotland, please contact admin@scottishdisabilitysport.com or telephone 0131 317 1130.