Youth Kick Start Spring with Adaptive Soccer

MEDIA RELEASE

23.08.11

Youth Kick Start Spring with Adaptive Soccer

Greater Wellington's young disabled community are invited to kick start the warmer spring months with an Adaptive Football 'Have A Go Day' at the Hutt Old Boys Rugby Club Gymnasium this Sunday.

The event is an initiative of Halberg Trust, Sport Wellington and SportZone Football and aims to introduce football to young people with a physical, sensory or intellectual impairment, between the ages of 13 and 25.

Halberg Trust spokesperson Marguerite Christophers says the intention is to develop a regular Adaptive Football Programme to meet the increase in demand from local teachers, students, parents and caregivers.

"This event is all about removing the barriers to participation and providing an opportunity to introduce disabled youth to the game of football," says Mrs Christophers.

"It is our hope that this 'Have A Go Day' generates enough interest to establish an on-going adaptive football programme so more disabled youth have the opportunity to participate in sport on a regular basis," says Ms Christophers.

Director of SportZone Football, Tony Morrison says adaptive football is a great way for disabled people to keep active and have fun in a safe and enjoyable environment.

"SportZone has been running local adapted football programmes for adults for about three months and we've been blown away by how popular and beneficial the game can be for the participants," says Mr Morrison.

"All of us believe that football is a fantastic way to get active and we're thrilled to be working with Halberg Trust to make the game more accessible to disabled secondary students and young adults, who may not otherwise get the opportunity to play the game," he says.

Westpac have been the Halberg Trust's principal sponsor since 2007 and volunteer staff are always on hand to assist Halberg Trust's 'Have A Go Day' events around the country.

Westpac spokesperson, Julie Holmes says Westpac's role in supporting the Halberg Trust is part of the bank's coordinated and long-term commitment to the disabled community.

"For us the day is all about inclusion and having fun, and we are prepared to assist anyone and everyone who needs us on Sunday," says Ms Holmes.

"We're also delighted to provide refreshments and a BBQ for participants, their parents and caregivers to help celebrate the day's activities," she says.

ENDS

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