All Abilities Lawn Bowls program a hit
Bowls is a great sport for people of all ages and abilities and East Shepparton has proved this by joining forces with Valley Sport to introduce people with a disability to our sport. A partnership between Valley Sport, Shepparton Access and the East Shepparton Bowls Club has provided participants with a disability the opportunity to learn the sport of Lawn Bowls under the guidance of experienced bowlers from East Shepparton Bowls Club.
The All Abilities Lawn Bowls program, which has been operational since October 2014, is conducted weekly on a Monday morning at the East Shepparton Bowls Club and involves a group from Shepparton Access.
Valley Sport Project Officer Dean Pritchett says it has been great to see people with a disability trying bowls for the first time.
“It’s great to see the guys come down and play bowls, whilst also getting coaching from the bowlers at East Shepparton Bowls,” said Mr Pritchett.
“The participants are all really enthusiastic and enjoy the program immensely and will continue to play bowls at East Shepparton.
“It’s important to engage persons with a disability into our sporting clubs, and Lawn Bowls is a great way to get them involved in the local community.”
East Shepparton Bowls Club Vice-President Frank Calogero says the program gives everyone a fair go.
“It’s really satisfying seeing them come out and play and being able to give them high fives after a good shot,” said Mr Calogero.
“To watch them enjoy playing the sport really makes it worthwhile,” Mr Calogero added.
Bowls Australia Regional Bowls Manager for North East Victoria, Josh Thornton said that programs like these help to integrate persons with a disability into mainstream sport.
“The club has been really welcoming to the clients and we’d love to see them get more involved at the club, whether that be in a playing capacity or just helping out around the club.”
The program is an initiative of Valley Sport under the Access All Abilities program and is always looking for new activities for their participants; and now after the success at East Shepparton, Valley Sport know they have found an inclusive sport that is suitable for all ages and abilities.
The Access for All Abilities program aims to provide greater opportunities for people with disabilities to become involved in sport and recreation activities throughout the Goulburn Valley.
Valley Sport is a Regional Sports Assembly covering the Goulburn Valley region and provides information, advice, support and club development programs for sporting clubs, leagues and associations.
For more information, please contact Valley Sport Program Manager, Megan Carr at 5831 8456 or email megan@valleysport.net.au
Bowls Australia’s Regional Bowls Managers can assist clubs in approaching community groups to visit their club and try the sport first hand.
To find your area’s Regional Bowls Manager, click here.
