Category Inclusive Sport   Show all

  • The Start Line: Calling all future Paralympians

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    Paralympics Australia and the Australian Institute of Sport are on the hunt for talented athletes with disability who dream of competing at the highest level. Whether you're passionate about sports, exercise, or already competing, this could be your moment to shine! 🌟

    If you're 13 or older on or before 31 December 2024, why not see if you have what it takes to be a future Paralympian?

    Wheelchair athletes for 100m to marathon events are in high demand, as well as seated throw athletes (discus, shot put, javelin, and club throw).

    Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!

    Find out more about The Start Line Program: https://www.paralympic.org.au/the-start-line/

    Read more: https://www.paralympic.org.au/2023/08/australian-government-boosts-paralympians-talent-search-for-brisbane-2032/

    👉 Apply now! Fill out the form via the link below and share this exciting news with your friends, family, and networks. Let's make dreams happen! đŸ’«

    Talent Search: https://shorturl.at/l5Grm

    Athletes with disability at the recent Come n Try Day at Griffith UniversityAthletes with disability at the recent Come n Try Day at Griffith University


  • Winning Medals with Equity and Diversity: A symposium championing equity and diversity in Paralympic sports

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    Front page of the Invitation with Griffith University Logo and a colour image of paralympic champion Madi de Rozario sitting in her racing chair. Text: Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability “Winning Medals with Equity and Diversity: A symposium championing equity and diversity in Paralympic sports. Friday, 8 November 2024, 9 am-3.30 pm, Online event.

    Back page of invitation: Text as per caption. Registration QR code or via URL: https://forms.office.com/r/LBHEY9iktm. Logos of partners: Queensland Government, QUT, The University of Queensland, Sporting Wheelies and Griffith University. CRICOS: 00233E; TEQSA: PRV12076.


    Griffith Inclusive Futures, a proud member of the Queensland Para Sport Network for Performance Enhancement and Applied Research (QPSN) is thrilled to host:

    Winning Medals with Equity and Diversity: A symposium championing equity and diversity in Paralympic sports

    Friday, 8 November 2024, 9 am–3:30 pm, Online Event

    This symposium, hosted by Griffith University’s Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability, as a member of the Queensland Para Sport Network, brings together interdisciplinary researchers, community partners, and athletes to amplify the vital role equity and diversity can play in improving the performance of Paralympic teams and enabling athletes to compete at the highest possible standard.

    The symposium will explore equity and diversity in elite paralympic sport through the lens of exercise and sport science, social justice, tourism and leisure, sport management, disability rehabilitation and inclusion. Building toward the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, this is a key opportunity for participants to incorporate the pillars of equity and diversity into their performance programs and research to drive performance.

    EVENT SCHEDULE

    9.00 am – 9:10 am
    Opening Remarks/ Housekeeping
    Master of Ceremonies: Ella Sablijak

    9:10 am - 9.40 am
    Keynote Introduction: Winning Medals with Equity and Diversity
    Presenter: Natalie Charlton

    9:40 am - 9:50 am
    Questions

    9:50 am – 10:00 am
    10-minute break

    10.00 am – 12.30 pm
    Performance Priorities Lightning Round

    10:00 am – 10:25 am
    Gender Equity and Paralympic Sport
    Presenters: Dr Georgia Munro-Cook and A/Prof. Adele Pavlidis

    10:25 am – 10:30 am
    Questions

    10:30 am – 10:55 am
    Optimising Participation and Performance for First Nations and CALD Athletes
    Presenter: Dr Kerry Hall and Dr Diti Bhattacharya

    10:55 am – 11:00 am
    Questions

    11:00 am – 11:25 am
    The Paradox of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Paralympic Classification
    Presenter: Prof. Sean Tweedy

    11:25 am – 11:30 am
    Questions

    11:30 am – 11:55 am
    Equity and Design Thinking in Technology Innovation for Impro    ved Performance
    Presenters: Prof. Laurent Fossard and Matthew McShane

    11:55 am – 12:00 pm
    Questions

    12:00 pm – 12:25 pm
    Creating Environments to Optimise Performance of Athletes with High Support Needs
    Presenters: Sharon Hill and Rachel Watson

    12:25 pm – 12:30 pm
    Questions

    12:30 pm – 1:15 pm
    45-minute lunch break

    1:15 pm – 1:30 pm
    Performance priority poll

    1.30 pm – 3.00 pm
    Panel Discussion: “Ethical Decision Making - Inclusion Versus Equity?”
    Panel Members: Michael Dobbie-Bridges; Ben Newton; Robyn Smith

    • How can we create a cohesive sport system and strong pathways for para-athletes by centring inclusion?
    • How do inclusion and equity factor into our legacy planning?
    • What is the role of policy in driving inclusion and equity?
    • Brisbane 2032 – quality or quantity?

    3.00 pm–3.30 pm
    Closing remarks: Best Practice in Equity and Diversity to Drive Performance / Building Environments to Optimise Performance
    Presenters: Prof. Simone Fullagar and Prof. Brendan Burkett

    3.30 pm
    Event concludes
    Concluding poll

    MEET OUR SPEAKERS

    Meet our Master of Ceremonies — Ella Sablijak
    Fresh off her bronze medal performance with the Australian Steelers, Ella has graciously agreed to be the Master of Ceremony for our symposium. Ella has more than 15 years’ experience in elite sport at an international level – representing Australia in both Basketball and Wheelchair Rugby. She is the current Education Manager for Paralympics Australia, with positions on the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) Athlete Steering Committee, Paralympics Australia’s Athlete Commission and WADA’s Athlete Committee.

    Gender Equity and Paralympic Sport
    Presenters: Dr Georgia Munro-Cook and A/Prof. Adele Pavlidis

    During our Performance Priorities Lightening Round we will be discussing the important issue of gender equity and paralympic sport. Our presenters on this topic are Dr Geogia Munro-Cook and A/Prof. Adele Pavlidis, from the Sport and Gender Equity Research Hub. Georgia has successfully represented Australia in Wheelchair Basketball and is now a champion of promoting intersectional approaches to promoting positive experiences for women in disability sport. Adele’s work focuses on gender and power relations, specifically connecting social, cultural and health concepts in sport to drive inclusion. She is currently leading an international team to investigate mega-sport event sport participation legacies and experimenting with ways of co-creating knowledge with girls, women and non-binary people.

    Optimising Participation and Performance for First Nations and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Athletes
    Presenters: Dr Kerry Hall and Dr Diti Bhattacharya

    During our Performance Priorities Lightening Round we will be discussing how to optimising participation and performance for First Nations and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Athletes. Tackling this important issue is Dr Kerry Hall and Dr Diti Bhattacharya. Dr Kerry Hall is a proud descendant of the Kuku Thaypan, Kuku Warra and Lama Lama Peoples from Cape York Peninsula. Her work aims to address access, engagement and inequity issues specific to First Nations Peoples through collaboration and prioritising community voices and perspectives. Dr Diti Bhattachyarya’s research relates to how sporting practices and fitness cultures can be used as a social conduit through which marginalised communities as experience a sense of belonging and community. Her current expertise in sporting geographies and social inclusion is being applied to her Postdoctoral Research Fellow role working on an ARC Discovery Project titled 'Engaging Outsiders in Sport: Transforming Major Sport Event Legacy Planning Through a Co-Creation Approach'.

    The Paradox of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Paralympic Classification
    Presenter: Prof. Sean Tweedy

    During our Performance Priorities Lightening Round we will be discussing the balance between equity, inclusion and fair competition during our “Paradox of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Paralympic Classification” session. We are very fortunate to have Professor Sean Tweedy, the Principal Investigator for the International Paralympic Committee’s Classification Research and Development Centre (physical impairments) available to reflect on his decades long career developing best practice and evidence-based methods for allocating athletes to classes. Sean leads the Para Sport and Adapted Physical Activity Research Group in the School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, University of Queensland and is a proud member of the Queensland Para Sport Network for Performance Enhancement and Applied Research board.

    Equity and Design Thinking in Technology Innovation for Improved Performance
    Presenters: Prof. Laurent Fossard and Matthew McShane

    Technology has unlimited potential to optimise performance – it also has the potential to create inequities due to issues with access, acceptability and affordability. During our Performance Priorities Lightening Round we will be discussing Equity and Design Thinking in Technology Innovation for Improved Performance. Tackling this important issue is Laurent Frossard and Matt McShane. Laurent is a bionic limbs scientist passionate about developing ground-breaking prosthetic solutions to improve life of individuals suffering from limb loss. Prof Frossard was the Sport Biomechanist for the Australian Para-athletic team between the Sydney 2000 and Beijing 2008 Paralympic games. Internationally recognised as independent expert, he approaches bionic solutions from an all-rounded perspective integrating prosthetic biomechanics, clinical benefits, service delivery and health economics. Matt is an Industrial Designer with a passion for co-designing technologies to improve the lives of individuals with a disability. He is an Australian Paralympian and World Champion with more than 8 years’ experience in elite sport.

    Creating Environments to Optimise Performance of Athletes with High Support Needs
    Presenters: Sharon Hill and Rachel Watson

    An individual’s environment can either be a positive and enabling force or a barrier for participation and performance. So how do we ensure an individual’s environment enables maximal participation, particularly for individuals with high support needs? Tackling this important issue is Sharon Hill. Sharon Hill is a volunteer who is passionate about driving the expansion of inclusive sport on the Sunshine Coast through Reverse Inclusion to encourage more social interaction between able-bodied people and those with disabilities. Sharon is a recipient of an Honorary Senior Fellow Award from the University of the Sunshine Coast for her dedication to inclusive sport. Sharon has tripled the Suncoast Spinners membership and created opportunities to employ people with disabilities for programs such as coaching local school children to play wheelchair basketball irrespective of their abilities.

    SAVE THE DATE

    Friday, 8 November 2024
    9 am–3.30 pm

    The symposium will be hosted online on Microsoft Teams.

    This is an accessible event with live captions. Auslan interpreting is available upon request.

    Register now: https://forms.office.com/r/LBHEY9iktm


    CONTACT US

    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
    inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au

    Dr Kelly Clanchy
    Program Director – Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology
    Griffith University
    k.clanchy@griffith.edu.au



  • Pathways to Care: Celebrating Strength, Skill, and Sportsmanship in the Queensland Wheelchair Football League Grand Final

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    This weekend, the excitement is palpable as the AFL Wheelchair Morningside Panthers prepare to compete in the Grand Final at Nissan Arena. Their journey to the Queensland Wheelchair Football League (QWFL) Grand Final is a testament to their unwavering strength, remarkable skill, and exemplary sportsmanship.

    AFL Wheelchair: A New Era in Sports

    AFL Wheelchair, which emerged from a series of "come and try" events, has rapidly gained momentum since the Queensland Wheelchair Football League's inception in 2023. Played as a five-a-side game on a basketball court, this adaptation of Australian Rules Football redefines the sport, promoting inclusivity and equity. In AFL Wheelchair, a kick is performed with a handball, and a handball is an underarm throw, offering a unique twist that challenges players to adapt and excel.

    Foundation and Growth

    The inaugural season saw teams from Beenleigh, Morningside, Ormeau, and Redcliffe lay the foundation for the league. The QWFL not only provides a competitive platform but also serves as a pathway for players to be drafted into the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast SUNS AFL Wheelchair squads for a two-game QClash series which acts as a selection ground for the Queensland State team for the Toyota National Wheelchair AFL Championship.

    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

    As a proud sponsor of the Morningside Panthers AFL Wheelchair Team in 2024, Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship and the opportunities that AFL Wheelchair creates for athletes. The support from organisations like Pathways to Care, acting as AFL Queensland’s Inclusion Partner, and Claro Aged Care & Disability is instrumental in fostering an inclusive environment that empowers all players.

    Join the Action

    This Sunday, the action kicks off with the Pathways to Care Kids Come n Try Clinic at 9:45 am on the center court. Following this, the curtain raiser featuring the Morningside Panthers begins at 11:00 am. Captain Michael Dobbie-Bridges will lead the team into the Grand Final, and spectators are welcome to join in cheering them on at Nissan Arena.

    The AFL Wheelchair Grand Final is more than just a game; it is a celebration of strength, skill, and sportsmanship. Come along and witness the rousing performances of these athletes as they redefine what it means to compete with passion and equity in sports. Everyone is welcome to be part of this groundbreaking event!

    Who: AFL Wheelchair Morningside Panthers vs Redcliffe Tigers

    Where: Nissan Arena

    Date: Sunday, 21 July

    Time: 11am (Gates open at 9.30am)

    Clinic: 9.45am (Centre Court)

    Cost: Free entry

    Can’t make the game? Watch the Live stream: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialAFLQ


    More information:

    Michael Dobbie-Bridges
    Captain, Morningside Panthers
    michael.dobbiebridges@gmail.com

    Jeff Neumann
    AFLQ Participation and Programs Manager
    Schools, Inclusion and Diversity
    jeff.neumann@afl.com.au


    Website: https://www.aflq.com.au/afl-wheelchair/


    Get Social:
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AFLQUEENSLAND

    Twitter: https://x.com/AFLQ

  • Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon!

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    Thrilling News: Griffith Inclusive Futures Shines at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon!

    A massive congratulations to the incredible team from Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability and Griffith University! Our staff, students, and ambassadors showcased their exceptional spirit and athleticism at the 2024 Gold Coast Marathon this weekend.

    Celebrating success! IFRD team members Rebekah Barker and Maretta Mann proudly display their 10km Finishers' Medals.
    Race day smiles from Bek, Adam Sheppard, and Maretta.

    STANDOUT PERFORMANCES

    Geoff Trappett OAM Australian Paralympic legend and Inclusive Futures partner Geoff Trappett dominated the Men’s Open 10km event, clinching first place in his category with a phenomenal time of 30:28. Watching Geoff race is always a thrill!

    Kudos to Adam Sheppard (10km, M40-44), Natasha Price (CPL Wheelchair 10km), and the winners: Jake Lappin (CPL Wheelchair Marathon), Emily Tapp (CPL Wheelchair 10km), and Joshua Brass (Wheelchair 4km).

    A big shoutout to Garth Plank, CEO of Mentor4me, for his incredible behind-the-scenes efforts in launching the first-ever 4km Wheelchair Race this year! Garth's inspiration and coaching were pivotal for Emily Foster, who discovered her passion for wheelchair racing at a City of Gold Coast ‘come ‘n’ try’ event. Thank you, Garth, for all you do for the wheelchair racing community! Read more here: https://goldcoastmarathon.com.au/2024/07/07/race-report-wheelchair-4km-race-joins-the-gold-coast-marathon-presented-by-asics-suite-of-events/

    Dr. Maretta Mann Our dynamic Inclusive Futures Strategic Development Manager, Maretta, blazed through the Southern Cross University 10km Run (F45-49) with a personal best of 51 minutes, securing 19th place in her category. Maretta also joined her family in the Gold Coast Airport 5km Run. Way to go, Maretta!

    Rebekah Barker Inclusive Futures Project Support Officer - a newcomer to running, Rebekah tackled her first competitive 10km (F35-39) event, finishing strong with a personal best of 52:32 minutes, and 41st in her category. Fantastic effort, Bek!

    A montage of images: (L-R) Geoff Trappett OAM, paralympic champion, powers past in his race chair. Dr Maretta Mann together with Geoff Trappett post race.Geoff Trappett OAM, Australian paralympic champion, powers past in his race chair.
    Dr Maretta Mann together with Geoff post-race.

    THE POWER OF INCLUSIVE SPORTS

    “Play: Active and Engaged Citizens” is one of the core themes of Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. This theme focuses on inclusive sport, recreation and access to safe and healthy environments throughout the lifespan. It will respond to the growing disparity in health outcomes for people with disability and aims to increase participation and performance in competitive sport in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games.

    Inclusive sports play a crucial role in promoting equality, breaking down barriers, and fostering a sense of community. By providing opportunities for people of all abilities to compete and excel, we not only challenge stereotypes but also inspire others to embrace diversity and inclusivity. Events like the GC Marathon – which has expanded to include three wheelchair events – highlight the importance of making sport accessible to everyone, and showcase the talents and determination of athletes of all abilities.

    Celebrate with Us!

    Hats off to all athletes, including those with disability and chronic conditions, for their outstanding achievements. If you participated, let us know so we can celebrate your success together!

    Amazing job, everyone!

    VISIT OUR WEBSITE: https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/inclusive-futures-reimagining-disability