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Referral
With our extensive experience and network in this specialized field, SFA welcomes families of children with disabilities to contact us if they are interested in getting their child involved in sport and recreation.
Whatever the sport, wherever the location, SFA will help you identify what is available. Just contact SFA through Keith Wise on 0407 978 389 or by email - kwise2@bigpond.com and we will try and help.
Advocacy
As well intentioned as we are in helping children with disabilities access sport and recreation, there is a very real gap in the provision of opportunities. From this perspective, where we cannot always refer people to suitable programs in their area, we will continue to lobby Government, Sporting Associations and clubs to be more inclusive
Soccer
Starting in 2004 with funding from Geelong City Council, SFA began a soccer program in partnership with the Geelong Rangers Soccer Club for children with an intellectual disability.
The program was expanded in 2005-2006, involving two more clubs - Barwon and the Bayside Sharks. The development and expansion of the program was supported by a Country Action grant provided by Sport and Recreation Victoria.
As was the intention when the program was planned, the project was adopted by the local club Barwon Soccer Club and now involves about twenty children on a weekly basis.
Kids Onside
Developing the Geelong model on a larger scale, SFA is presently partnered with Victorian Sport and Recreation Association of Persons with an Intellectual Disability, (VICSRAPID) and Football Federation Victoria (FFV).
The program now funded by VicHealth, (as well as SFA), is designed to expand the model throughout regional Victoria, originally in Swan Hill, Ballarat and Warragul. A Sports Development Coordinator based at VICSRAPID is now employed to oversee the further development of the concept.
To learn more contact Jenny Bees at VICSRAPID on 03 9926 1383
Keith and Dean Smith with participants at Geelong Rangers
The Future (Dare 2 Dream)
Our major long term goals are to begin operations overseas where disability sports services are most needed. One day we plan to organize a major sporting event for children landmine victims.
When working with children with disabilities one can soon realize the tremendous impact a disability can have on the entire family. With this in mind we would like to take a holistic approach to our work, with benefits for both the child and his/her family.
It is intended to build a retreat where families can take time-off, relax and unwind while their children enjoy a number of sporting and recreational activities. |
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