The Special Olympics is an organisation that strives to create a better world, using the power of sport to foster the inclusion of all people, especially those living with an intellectual disability. Cisco is proud to have partnered with this organisation recently to organise the NSW Special Olympics Community Disability Sports Day.
The event was held last month at Centrebet Stadium – home of the National Rugby League’s Penrith Panthers – and saw 65 intellectually disabled people from Sydney’s West participate. Arriving through the same tunnel that the Penrith Panthers run out of at the start of each game, the participants had the opportunity to play a range of sports and activities, honing their skills in rugby league, cricket, football, bocce and some modified Olympic events such as javelin and discus.
Of the 65 athletes who attended, 90% had never experienced the Special Olympics before. These athletes are now able to take advantage of Special Olympics programs that offer regular sport, competition pathways, healthy lifestyle solutions and leadership opportunities.
The attendees were also treated to appearances from the Penrith Panthers themselves who mingled with the groups, giving advice and assistance. As well as the Penrith Panthers, staff from Cricket NSW and Big Bash team Sydney Thunder were also helping out.
Of course, the glue that held the whole event together was the army of volunteers and Cisco sent 52 of its staff to help ensure the day ran smoothly, staffing the BBQ and running the events. We are proud to have partnered with an organisation like Special Olympics and want to extend a big thank you to both Cricket NSW and the Penrith Panthers for their enthusiasm and support on the day.
The fact that such events take place – just perfect! When I see people with disabilities who have come out and fight like a true champion, I get some tears, tears of pride for these people! My daughter – sportswoman, she is 15 years old and has 10 years of experience in figure skating. When the night she said to me: Mom, I have no strength, I pointed Anna at your article and she also cried with me. Thank you for you support this movement! I live in Russia and in our country are very few such events … :(((
It’s nice when someone does a great job of promoting this type of events that provide a great many Handicap a push out into the big world. Thank you for your good article which I will forward it to give here in Denmark.
Great job, Thank you for you support this movement! I live in ROMANIA and in our country are very few such events.
All the best!
Great job, Thank you for you support this movement!
A big company with a big heart. One more reason I love Cisco and it’s people. Keep up the great work and giving back to the community.