Special Olympics Clubs – Blue Mountains Nepean is a sports club based in Sydney, Australia that provides weekly sports training and regular competition for people with an intellectual disability. The club is open to everyone, regardless of their abilities, and aims to create an inclusive environment where people with intellectual disabilities can participate in sports and improve their physical and social skills.
Special Olympics Australia, of which Blue Mountains Nepean Club is a part, is a global movement that was started by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the sister of US President John F Kennedy, and Rosemary Kennedy, who had an intellectual disability. Today, Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries. In Australia, Special Olympics began in 1976 when many individuals with intellectual disabilities were shut in institutions. Although this is no longer the norm in Australia, Special Olympics still seeks public support to ensure that people with intellectual disabilities are not excluded from society.
The club believes in the power of sport to create a better world, similar to the Olympics and Paralympics. However, Special Olympics is unique in its focus on people with intellectual disabilities and providing year-round sports programmes for individuals of all capabilities. Special Olympics athletes also have access to robust competition pathways, including the World Games held every four years in summer and winter sports. Although the Olympics and Paralympics receive more awareness and funding, Special Olympics is working to increase its reach and spread the joy of sport and community to a larger audience.
While it may not always be obvious when a person has an intellectual disability, it is important to understand that individuals with intellectual disabilities may learn differently or need more time and support to succeed in certain tasks. Special Olympics aims to make ability visible and help individuals with intellectual disabilities uncover their hidden talents through sports.
The Blue Mountains Nepean Club welcomes anyone with an intellectual disability to participate in their sports training and competitions. By providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to play sports, the club aims to open doors to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for these often marginalised and isolated members of the community. With the support of the public, Special Olympics can continue to expand its reach and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.