Member of the Australian team. She swam her way to a silver medal in the 100m freestyle and bronze in the 50m backstroke, showcasing her incredible talent and determination. Special Olympics Clubs – Southern Tasmania is a local sports club in Hobart that aims to provide similar opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability to discover and develop their abilities through sports.
The club is proud to be a part of the Special Olympics network, which offers a wide range of sport, recreation, social, and health opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. By participating in these activities, individuals can have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, build self-esteem, demonstrate courage, and make meaningful friendships.
Special Olympics Australia, the governing body of the club, is a part of the global movement that was founded almost 50 years ago by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. With over 5 million athletes in 177 countries, Special Olympics has been transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities worldwide. In Australia, Special Olympics began in 1976 with the goal of providing opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to break free from institutionalisation and experience personal achievement, pride, and inclusion within the community.
The club's mission is aligned with the belief that sport has the power to create a better world, just like the Olympics and Paralympics. While the Olympics and Paralympics mainly focus on elite athletes, Special Olympics provides a year-round multi-sports programme for people with intellectual disabilities of all capabilities. The club offers robust competition pathways, including the World Games, which takes place every four years in summer and winter sports.
It is important to note that having an intellectual disability does not mean that individuals are incapable of learning and achieving. People with intellectual disabilities may require additional time and support to succeed in tasks that are considered basic for others. Special Olympics Australia aims to make these abilities visible and help individuals uncover their hidden talents through sports.
Special Olympics Clubs – Southern Tasmania invites the public to support their mission and increase their reach. With only 3,000 athletes currently participating, there is a need for more support to spread the joy of sports and community to the estimated 850,000 people in Australia with intellectual disabilities and/or autism. Whether it's through donations, volunteering, or participating in club activities, every contribution can make a significant impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities, helping them achieve their dreams and become active members of the community.