Special Olympics Clubs – Mackay is a sports club in Mackay, Australia, that is proud to be a part of the Special Olympics network. The club offers a range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability. Their mission is to provide a space for these individuals to have fun, be healthy, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make friends.
Special Olympics Australia is a part of a global movement that was pioneered by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister to US President John F Kennedy. It has been transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities for almost 50 years. Today, Special Olympics supports over 5 million athletes in 177 countries. In Australia, Special Olympics began in 1976 when many individuals with an intellectual disability were shut in institutions.
Although this is no longer the norm in Australia, Special Olympics seeks public support to ensure that people with an intellectual disability are not shut out and have equal opportunities.
As only 3,000 athletes currently participate with Special Olympics Australia, the club in Mackay encourages the public to support them in increasing their reach and spreading the joy of sport and community. They believe in the power of sport to create a better world, just like the Olympics and Paralympics. However, they have a slightly different focus and are still working towards gaining awareness and funding.
An intellectual disability does not necessarily mean that a person is unable to learn and succeed in basic tasks. It simply means that they learn differently or may need more time and support to accomplish certain tasks. Special Olympics aims to make these abilities visible and help individuals uncover their hidden talents through sport. The club provides a year-round multi-sports programme for individuals of all capabilities who have an intellectual disability.
They also offer robust competition pathways, including participation in the World Games on a four-year cycle.
At Special Olympics Clubs – Mackay, they believe that individuals with an intellectual disability should concentrate on what they can do and not what others think they can't. They strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment where these individuals can achieve their dreams through hard work and perseverance.
Overall, Special Olympics Clubs – Mackay is dedicated to providing opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports, build self-esteem, and form lasting friendships. They continue to seek public support to ensure that these individuals are not shut out and have equal opportunities to be involved in the community.