Grampian’s School Boccia Festivals experienced a surge in participation this month thanks to a drive from the region’s Active Schools Teams.
More than 100 pupils with additional support needs and physical, sensory and learning disabilities from primary and secondary schools across Aberdeen City and Shire took part in three Festivals, held in Aberdeen City, North Aberdeenshire & Central Aberdeenshire. It’s the first time that the entry levels have warranted the need for multiple Festivals to take place simultaneously and follows a successful summer term where Scottish Disability Sport staff and volunteers engaged hundreds of Grampian pupils in the sport through the delivery of Boccia Bonanza sessions within a number of mainstream schools.
This month’s Festivals are part of a series, which runs throughout the school year, and the next round is planned for March 2019. The top teams will then go through to the Final, which will take place on Wednesday 8th May.
It is hoped that the increase in Festival participation will lead to the development of new regular boccia sessions in more locations, and a new session is set to be launched in Peterhead in the near future.
Well done to all of the teams who entered and competed, and thank you to all of the Active Schools staff, Grampian Disability Sport volunteers and school staff who made the day possible. A special mention to national boccia squad player, Hannah Craig, who made a guest appearance at the Aberdeenshire Central Festival. Hannah really inspired the youngsters and got stuck in with the officiating!
If you or anyone you know lives in Grampian with a physical, sensory or learning disability and is interested in getting involved in sport, please get in touch with Alison Shaw on alison.shaw@scottishdisabilitysport.com or 07828 744 848.