Special Olympics Clubs – Flinders is a sports club located in Sydney that is proud to be a part of the Special Olympics network. Special Olympics is a global movement that aims to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in a range of sports and recreational activities, as well as to develop social and health skills. The club's mission is to help these individuals have fun, maintain good health, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make new friends.
Special Olympics Australia, of which Flinders Club is a part, is a local impact organisation that supports the global movement founded by the late Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Special Olympics Australia began in 1976 when many individuals with intellectual disabilities were institutionalised. Although this is no longer the norm in Australia, the organisation continues to seek public support to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not excluded. By providing opportunities to play sports, Special Olympics Australia aims to open doors to personal achievement, pride, and inclusion for marginalised and isolated members of the community.
Flinders Club, as part of Special Olympics Australia, is committed to increasing its reach and spreading the joy of sports and community to more individuals with intellectual disabilities. With only 3,000 athletes currently participating with Special Olympics Australia, there is a need for more support to achieve this goal. The organisation believes in the power of sports in creating a better world, much like the Olympics and Paralympics. However, Special Olympics caters specifically to individuals with intellectual disabilities and offers year-round multi-sports programmes for individuals of all capabilities.
Intellectual disability, which is the target population of Flinders Club, refers to individuals who may find it challenging to perform basic tasks such as reading, handling money, or using public transportation. However, this does not mean that they are incapable of learning. They may simply learn differently or require more time and support to succeed. At Flinders Club, the focus is on uncovering the hidden talents and abilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports.
Unlike physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities are not always easily recognisable. However, at Special Olympics Australia, it is evident that individuals with intellectual disabilities have numerous hidden talents that can be fostered through sports. The club aims to make these abilities visible and provide individuals the opportunity to achieve their dreams.
Flinders Club welcomes individuals with intellectual disabilities in Sydney to join and participate in their sports programmes, connect with others, and experience the transformative power of sports and community.