Exciting times at the Special Olympics club
IRELAND is a proud sporting nation, thus we are well aware that sport does not end with playing a match or running a race. Sport gives us so much more. At Dundalk Special Olympics Club this was made apparent once again in 2019.
After being a part of the Athlete Leadership programme, presented by Special Olympics Ireland, footballer Philip Hoey was of the opinion that: ‘Everyone seems to be happy in the club this year, the involvement with St. Teresas club has added to their joy. It has helped us up our game and we are all like one big happy family.’
The involvement of athletes in Athlete Leadership program did not only help to carry the load of the coaches, committee and volunteers but also set a positive example to fellow athletes. This brought a great deal of confidence and empowerment to Philip Hoey and Margaret Smith who both completed their Bronze Award.
As with many charitable organizations you have to keep on top of changes and challenges. By including athletes in the decision making as well as sharing resources with their neighbours St Therese, proved to be the first steps to the success of Dundalk’s club.
Patron and Director of Special Olympics Ireland, Dundalk native, Mary Moran believes that, “The club has been so successful this year thanks to a number of factors- The volunteers and parents who give so freely of their time to support the athletes in the different sporting activities. This year we have seen a huge increase in the number of athletes joining the club and we have also participated in new sports like Bocce and Bowling as well as our weekly activities in football, swimming and athletics.
The athletes are amazing and while they enjoy their sports and competing they also enjoy the social aspect of the club where they have the opportunity to meet and make new friends.”
Finishing off the year with the well anticipated Christmas party, an astounding 107 guests attended in support of these very special athletes, once again reflecting the positive influence of sport.
2019 proved that with the restructuring of the committee, help and support from sponsors, parents and the community paired with the contribution from the athletes made for a great year.
The hope is that this enthusiasm and collaborative will carry Dundalk Special Olympics Club through in 2020.