Over 100 primary four pupils recently experienced the excitement of their first para-sports festival, a day designed to celebrate inclusion and inspire participation in adaptive sports.
The festival, hosted by High Life Highland and Alness Academy, offered pupils a chance to explore various disability sports and adaptive drills alongside their peers, fostering both fun and awareness.
Active Schools Young Leaders, trained by High Life Highland’s Disability Sport Officer Fiona Green, played a key role in delivering the activities.
Fiona praised the Young Leaders for their dedication, saying:
“It was fantastic to see them run a para-sports event in Alness, showcasing their confidence and creativity while offering inclusive opportunities for local sport.”
Participants took part in eight activities, discovering new ways to enjoy physical activity while learning about inclusivity and teamwork.
Karla Angus, Active Schools Coordinator for the Alness cluster, highlighted the event’s success in encouraging understanding and participation.
She said:
“It was wonderful to see the pupils enjoying themselves while embracing inclusive sportsmanship. This event shows how sport truly is for everyone, regardless of age or ability.”
The day was not only a triumph for the pupils but also for the Young Leaders, who gained invaluable experience and confidence in leading adaptive sports sessions.
Kirsty Cooper, an Active Schools volunteer and mother to Zack, who uses a wheelchair, shared her enthusiasm for the event.
She said:
“It was brilliantly organised, fully inclusive, and so much fun.
“My son Zack was able to participate independently in every activity, enjoying sports alongside his peers with no barriers.”
The flexibility of the day ensured that every child, regardless of ability or stress level, could find an activity they enjoyed, creating a truly welcoming environment for all.
The success of the para-sports festival has laid the groundwork for future inclusive events, with organisers already looking ahead to bringing more adaptive opportunities to the community.
High Life Highland encourages anyone interested in Active Schools programmes or volunteering to visit their website and get involved in creating a culture of activity and inclusivity for all.
The day was a resounding success, proving that when sports embrace inclusion, everyone wins.
