A boccia festival was held this week for the Island’s children who have special educational needs or physical disabilities. With the aim of improving inclusion in sport as part of the Isle of Man Strategy for Sport, the festivals were hosted by Department of Education and Children’s Sports Development Unit.
 
David Anderson MHK, Member for Education with responsibility for Sport, said: “The fundamental aim of the Strategy for Sport is to make more physical activity more accessible to more people. Festivals of this nature encourage the inclusion of those children who may otherwise not get the opportunity to take part in sport. Increasing levels of physical activity in a fun and fully inclusive environment builds self-confidence, which enhances physical and mental development and wellbeing.”
 
Children from all primary and secondary special educational need units (SEN Units) took part in a variety of boccia based activities that concentrated on developing hand eye co-ordination and accurateness. Boccia (pronounced ‘Botch-ya’) is a fully inclusive sport for all ages and abilities, having been designed for players with severe disabilities as a Paralympic Sport. Players aim to propel balls close to a target ball, by rolling, throwing or kicking. If a player is unable to throw or kick the ball, then a boccia ramp can be used.
 
Community Sports Coaches led weekly boccia training sessions in preparation for the festivals, adapting the activities for a range of needs, to encourage the children to develop their concentration skills and levels of accuracy.  
 
Boccia is increasing in popularity. Manx Sport and Recreation will be offering a free boccia taster session on Sunday 22 February for all adults and children. Weekly boccia sessions will then take place on Sundays for an hour between 2pm and 3pm at the National Sports Centre.
 
For more information, please contact Zoe Crowe on 688575.