Physical disability, people with an intellectual disability may not have visible impairments, making it important to understand and support their specific needs.
Special Olympics Tasmania, located in Hobart, is a sports club that is part of the global Special Olympics movement. The club aims to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to engage in sports activities in a way that suits their abilities and preferences. Special Olympics Tasmania believes in creating special moments for these individuals, moments that bring joy, confidence, and memories that will last a lifetime.
The club offers a variety of sports programmes that cater to the unique needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Participants have the freedom to set their own goals and dreams, and the club is dedicated to helping them achieve and exceed those goals. Special Olympics Tasmania encourages participants to share these moments of triumph and happiness with their loved ones.
Special Olympics Australia, the parent organisation of Special Olympics Tasmania, is part of a global movement that was established almost 50 years ago by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to US President John F Kennedy. Today, Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries. In Australia, Special Olympics began in 1976 with the aim of providing opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities who were often shut in institutions. While the situation has improved over the years, the club still seeks public support to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are not excluded from sports and other social activities.
Special Olympics Tasmania believes in the power of sport to create a better world, just like the Olympics and Paralympics. However, Special Olympics focuses on individuals with intellectual disabilities and offers year-round multi-sports programmes for all capabilities. Special Olympics athletes have access to robust competition pathways, including the World Games, which takes place every four years and features both summer and winter sports. It is the goal of Special Olympics Tasmania to raise awareness and funding for athletes with intellectual disabilities and provide them with opportunities for personal achievement, pride, and inclusion in the community.
It is important to understand what is meant by “intellectual disability. ” People with intellectual disabilities typically face difficulties with tasks that are considered basic, such as reading, handling money, or using public transportation. However, this does not mean that they cannot learn or succeed in these areas. Individuals with intellectual disabilities may learn differently or require additional time and support to achieve their goals.
It is crucial to recognise their abilities and provide them with the necessary resources and encouragement to pursue their dreams.
By supporting Special Olympics Tasmania, whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in their programmes, individuals can help increase the reach of the organisation and spread the joy of sport and community. With approximately 850,000 people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism in Australia and only 3,000 athletes currently participating in Special Olympics Australia, the club relies on public support to ensure that more individuals with intellectual disabilities can benefit from their programmes.
In conclusion, Special Olympics Tasmania is a sports club dedicated to providing individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in sports and experience special moments of joy and confidence. Through their inclusive programmes, Special Olympics Tasmania aims to break barriers, promote personal achievements, and foster a sense of pride and inclusion for people who may otherwise be marginalised in the community.