MEDIA RELEASE
23 February 2007
15 Years of Independence Games
The Independence Games, a two day sporting event for young disabled people aged 8-17, can continue thanks to the
on-going support of Reuters and Lion Foundation.
“CCS supports and works with disabled people and their families to ensure that people with disabilities have the same
rights, choices and opportunities as all others living in New Zealand,” said Viv Maidaborn, CEO of CCS. “Sport is a
fantastic opportunity for everyone to participate in their community and the Independence Games are a truly valued part
of New Zealand’s sporting events,” she said.
In 1992 CCS held the first Independence Games so that young sports people could develop their sporting talents. The
Independence Games is now a first-rate two day sporting event for disabled people aged 8-17 years, with a number of
previous participants progressing on to the Paralympics.
Reuters is supporting the Independence Games for the fourth year. This year it is exclusively supporting the North
Island Independence Games, being held in Hamilton. The Lion Foundation is supporting the South Island Independence Games
for the second time which are being held in Christchurch.
“We are delighted to continue our support of the Independence Games,” said Iain Dixon, Managing Director of Reuters New
Zealand. “The Games provide a great opportunity for young people from communities all over New Zealand to get together
for a really inspirational weekend of competition, teamwork and, most of all, fun.”
CCS depends on contributions from the community to ensure the continuation of the Independence Games. It believes sport
is a great way to develop independence in children and young people.
“The Games are also a great opportunity for families and whanau to get together and have a great time, and take part in
something which is fun, lively and well organised. Many young people and their families return year after year,” said
Viv Maidaborn.
The Independence Games are 13-15 April 2007 and the final opportunity to register is 16 March 2007. For registration
details about the North Island Games contact Louise Were on louisewere@hotmail.com or David Matthews on
dmatthews@no.ccs.org.nz for the South Island Games.
ENDS