A NEW Special Olympics club has opened on the Northside
The official launch of the Donabate Portrane Special Olympics Club took place before Christmas. Twenty-nine athletes, their parents, siblings, coaches, Mayor of Fingal Cllr Anthony Lavin, Bob Dowling, local area Fine Gael representative, Donabate Portrane ETNS Principal Maeve Corish, Director of Eastern Region Liz Callery and chief executive of Special Olympics Ireland Matt English attended. The Special Olympics Young Athlete programme caters for children with an intellectual disability between the ages of four and 12.
Launched last year, the programme introduces children to a wide range of play activities in a familiar, supportive and fun environment and introduces the fundamental movement skills such as throwing, catching, jumping and balancing.
The launch was full of energy and joy as the athletes gave a skills demonstration to the gathered parents and guests before a visit from Santa!
Speaking at the event, Head Coach Deborah McArdle said: “This was a great event and huge credit is due to all the athletes involved. It is clear from the demonstration on the day that the group have already bonded after their few weeks together and progress is already being made in their skills.
“I would like to pay tribute to the incredible work of the volunteers who made today and the club such a success.”
Donabate Portrane Special Olympics Club is the 11th Young Athlete Club in the country and they meet up every Saturday morning at DPETNS.
Due to the large number of children wishing to attend, they run two sessions: from 12noon to 1pm and 1pm to 2pm.
Predominantly led by volunteers, parents and guardians are also encouraged to take part in the sessions. The club is looking for more volunteers to get involved and no experience is needed. If you would like to volunteer at the club or become a member, you can contact them on Facebook @Donabate Portrane Special Olympics Club or email dpsoclub@gmail.com