Wallington Cricket Club is breaking new ground with the introduction of the first-ever All-Abilities Cricket Program based on the Bellarine Peninsula.
The initiative is a testament to the inclusivity and diversity that the Wallington cricketing community is striving to embrace.
The program aims to provide individuals with diverse abilities the opportunity to enjoy and participate in the game of cricket, fostering a sense of community, empowerment and fun.
All-Abilities coordinator Jayde Smith reflected on her own experience of rediscovering sport after nearly 20 years and the sense of joy and camaraderie she felt.
Once she learned that one in five people in Australia live with disability, she felt compelled to help the 20 percent of the community that are typically not involved in any sport to create the same feelings that she had.
In recent years, there has been a global push for inclusivity in sports, emphasising that everyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, should have the chance to engage in physical activities and team sports. Cricket, being one of the most popular sports in Australia, is now at the forefront of this movement with the All-Abilities Cricket Program.
The program creates an environment where individuals of all abilities can come together to play and enjoy cricket.
All-Abilities coach Simon Perry has seen the participants thrive since the start of the program in October. The structure of the regular 11am timeslot on Sundays, familiar faces and a supportive environment has ensured plenty of smiles and a level of connectivity between participants rarely seen.
The program recognises the importance of skill development for participants. Coaches and mentors work closely with individuals to enhance their cricketing skills while also fostering a sense of empowerment. The program emphasises the unique strengths and abilities of each participant, encouraging them to reach their full potential both on and off the cricket field.
Virginia, the mother of Xavier, who is one of the participants, said he always had very good ball skills.
“He enjoys games in the backyard with his brothers,” she said.
“However, for him, that’s where his sporting opportunities stopped. Finding the All Abilities program at Wallington has meant that our son can play cricket. He would not be involved in cricket without this particular program.”
Virginia went on to say that Wallington Cricket Club made a difference to Xavier’s sporting opportunities and well-being. An unexpected outcome is that Xavier will now move into an under 11 team.
Beyond the cricketing aspect, the program places a strong emphasis on community building. Participants, their families, coaches, and volunteers come together to create a supportive and inclusive community. This sense of belonging is a powerful aspect of the program, as it goes beyond the boundaries of the cricket field and enriches the lives of all involved.
The program wouldn’t be possible without the support from Leopold Community Bank and Lord Taverners. The first part of the program finishes on Sunday December 3, however this will restart in January.
If you would like to know more; contact Jayde Smith on 0419-726 665 or Simon Perry on 0422-575 204. To stay in touch with the program, you can follow at facebook.com/WallingtonCC
