Member of the Australian team to win a gold medal in swimming. This achievement, along with many others, highlights the importance of Special Olympics Clubs – Gold Coast in empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to showcase their abilities and achievements.
Special Olympics Clubs – Gold Coast is proud to be a part of the Special Olympics network, which provides a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The club aims to promote fun, health, self-esteem, courage, and friendship among its members. By offering inclusive sporting programmes, the club helps individuals with intellectual disabilities become active, socialise, and build self-confidence.
Special Olympics Australia, to which the Gold Coast club belongs, is part of a global sporting community that has been transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities for nearly five decades. The organisation was pioneered by the late Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to US President John F Kennedy, and Rosemary Kennedy, who had an intellectual disability. Today, Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries.
Although institutionalisation of individuals with intellectual disabilities is no longer the norm in Australia, Special Olympics continues to seek public support to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not left out. By providing opportunities for them to participate in sports, Special Olympics Clubs – Gold Coast aims to promote personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for the marginalised and isolated members of the community.
The club acknowledges the power of sport to create a better world, similar to the Olympics and Paralympics. While the Olympics focus on elite athletes and the Paralympics on athletes with physical disabilities, Special Olympics offers a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals with intellectual disabilities, regardless of their capabilities. The club provides robust competition pathways, including the World Games held on a four-year cycle in summer and winter sports.
It is important to note that individuals with an intellectual disability may find it challenging to perform what are considered basic tasks, such as reading, handling money, or using public transport. However, the club believes that individuals with intellectual disabilities can learn and achieve these tasks, albeit differently or with more time and support. Special Olympics Clubs – Gold Coast focuses on promoting individual strengths and abilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to shine.
At Special Olympics Australia, it is evident that individuals with intellectual disabilities have hidden talents that can be uncovered through sports. The club encourages inclusivity by providing a platform for individuals to showcase their abilities and achieve their dreams. The club believes in the potential of individuals with intellectual disabilities and supports them in their journey towards personal growth and success.
Join Special Olympics Clubs – Gold Coast today and be a part of a community that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and the power of sport to transform lives.