 Sport has taken a significant stride towards inclusivity by expanding the scope of their innovative unified ...){kind=link}
Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Sport has taken a significant stride towards inclusivity by expanding the scope of their innovative unified all abilities sport program.
The program pioneered a “reverse inclusion” approach through the sport of wheelchair basketball, with a gala day held on 16 May in conjunction with Wheelchair Sports NSW and Basketball NSW.
Para-athlete advocate Nathan Barbara from Marist College Eastwood, Australian record holder in the U17’s multi-class shot put, said, “The wheelchair basketball gala day was inclusive and enjoyable and taught us all many positive lessons about adapting to sport in a wheelchair.
“It was great to see everyone having a go and trying their best.”
Unified sport fosters a supportive environment where students with and without disabilities come together to learn, compete and grow.
“Reverse inclusion” flips the script by bringing able-bodied students into the world of wheelchair basketball, breaking down barriers, fostering a sense of unity, and promoting understanding.
“I never realised how hard it was to maneuver a wheelchair,” one student remarked.
Moreover, “reverse inclusion” offers a platform for students with disabilities to showcase their skills, talents, and leadership qualities in a sport where they excel.
It provides an opportunity for them to take on mentoring roles, promoting self-confidence and empowering them to reach their full potential.