Category: Media Release

Inclusivity in sports is more than just a buzzword – it’s the foundation of a thriving sporting ecosystem. Imagine a world where every athlete, regardless of their abilities, experiences a genuine sense of belonging. Inclusive coaching nurtures an environment where athletes are not defined by their disabilities but are celebrated for their unique talents. It’s through inclusivity that diversity takes shape, cultivating a nurturing and encouraging environment that fosters the growth of every individual. 

But inclusivity doesn’t stop at the individual level; it has a ripple effect that resonates through entire teams and communities. When athletes of varying abilities come together, barriers shatter, and teamwork flourishes. The broader sporting community benefits, breaking down stereotypes and pushing boundaries to make sports a realm of boundless potential for everyone.

The Role of Coaches

Coaches have the power to facilitate inclusivity. They shape an environment where athletes not only thrive physically but also emotionally and socially. Inclusive coaching is a blend of empathy and understanding, where coaches go the extra mile to cater to the unique needs of each athlete. It involves listening, adapting, and empowering – ensuring that every athlete is embraced, valued and heard.

Inclusive coaching isn’t confined to physical talent; it’s about nurturing emotional and social well-being. A supportive coach can be a beacon of positivity, helping athletes overcome challenges and celebrating their victories – both big and small. The impact of such coaching reverberates far beyond the playing field, as athletes carry the lessons of resilience and camaraderie into every facet of their lives.

Inclusive Teams and Their Collective Brilliance

Picture a team where each player brings their unique strengths to the table. Inclusive coaching has the magical ability to craft such teams. When athletes with diverse backgrounds and abilities unite, they can become a force to be reckoned with. A visually impaired athlete’s acute sense of sound might complement a teammate’s lightning-quick reflexes, resulting in a match-winning strategy.

But it’s not just about winning games; it’s about creating a family where every member plays a crucial role. Inclusive teams thrive on trust, communication, and mutual respect, resulting in improved performance and a united front against any challenge.

From Barriers to Belief

Inclusive coaching is a catalyst for change, breaking down societal barriers that have long held athletes with disabilities back. These athletes, through their remarkable talents, challenge preconceived notions and inspire others to dream bigger. Coaches, in this journey, don’t just teach skills; they ignite a sense of self-belief that propels athletes to greater achievements. Inclusive coaching cultivates resilience and determination, reshaping an athlete’s mindset by focusing on their capabilities rather than their limitations. Athletes with disabilities not only conquer sports but also triumph over challenges in their everyday lives, becoming living testaments to the power of inclusivity.

A Transformative Ripple Effect

The ripples of inclusive coaching extends far beyond individuals, teams and clubs. It creates a seismic shift in the sporting community, fostering an environment of acceptance, diversity, and understanding. As teams showcase the path of inclusivity on the field – spectators, volunteers, and even rival teams become part of this transformative movement.

Embrace Inclusive Coaching Today

Eager to embark on a journey of inclusive coaching? The Australian Sporting Alliance for People with a Disability (ASAPD) has paved the way for you. The groundbreaking Disability Inclusion Coaching Course* is a virtual wealth of knowledge, waiting to be explored by coaches, sports organisations, clubs, and volunteers. This 60-minute online course is not just an education; it’s a journey towards a more inclusive culture. Visit https://asapd.org/resources/ and enrol today. 

*Acknowledgement to Blind Sports Australia, Deaf Sports Australia, Sport Inclusion Australia, Inclusive Sport Design, and the Australian Sports Commission for bringing this groundbreaking initiative to life.

Sydney, Australia: The Australian Sporting Alliance for People with a Disability (ASAPD) has today launched its disability inclusion education modules for sports coaches, the first of its kind in Australia.

An alliance formed by eight leading National Sporting Organisations for People with Disability (NSODs), ASAPD aims to collaborate, advocate, and facilitate inclusive sport and physical activity for people with a disability, impairment, or limitation.

The program was developed by three of the ASAPD members; Blind Sports Australia, Deaf Sports Australia and Sport Inclusion Australia, in partnership with Inclusive Sport Design, and is made possible by funding from the Australian Sports Commission. The valuable resource aims to help sports organisations, clubs and volunteers to increase participation and improve awareness of inclusion practices through education, advice, and support services. 

The 60-minute online course is free to access and provides essential skills, understanding and knowledge in a practical, real-life way, and forms the basis of how to be a more inclusive coach of people with a disability in sport and active recreation programs and activities. 

ASAPD Chair, John Croll, said the project was a milestone for not only the ASAPD organisation but for the sector and improving disability inclusion in sports around the country.

“This initiative is an important step in encouraging everyone involved in sports at all levels to better understand the needs of people with disability or impairment. Information is critical to break down these barriers, and we look forward to seeing all clubs and coaches access the course and educate themselves on creating a culture of inclusion” John said.

The course contains valuable experiences and advice from individuals with disability and coaches, providing confidence to support players and athletes to access sport and physical activity options and pathways, and is now available on the Australian Sports Commission’s Learning Centre.

For more information on the course visit: https://asapd.org/resources/

Image by: iStock – NickyLloyd

Volunteering goes beyond giving back; it’s two-fold. Firstly as a catalyst for transformation and positive change within communities, and secondly (although just as importantly) it serves as an exceptionally positive and rewarding personal experience. And as a nation of sports lovers, volunteers are vital to the longevity, harmony and success of many of Australia’s sporting clubs and groups.  

According to the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), sport volunteering is linked to a wide range of health, social, and community benefits, as attested by the estimated 2.9 million Australians who volunteer in sport annually. 

A passion for sport and a willingness to devote time are two key drivers for volunteers, but there are a wide range of benefits, from physical to emotional, that can be associated with this rewarding activity. Here are four key benefits to signing up at your local organisation:

1. Let’s begin by looking at the physical and mental health benefits that come with volunteering in sport. Whether it’s coaching, organising events, or assisting with training, keeping active triggers the release of endorphins— the ‘feel-good’ brain chemicals that reduce stress and boost happiness. Beyond the physical activity itself, the sense of fulfilment derived from giving back, the connections and friendships formed with fellow volunteers, and the joy of witnessing the positive impact on others significantly improve mental well-being. Not to mention being part of a sport you’re passionate about!
2. Volunteering also provides a platform for skill development and personal growth. Sports volunteers have the opportunity to develop leadership, confidence, and decision-making abilities. It can also enhance communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills thanks to collaboration with other people from similar, or diverse, backgrounds. These valuable skills contribute to personal growth and can positively impact various aspects of life. Sports volunteering also opens doors to valuable networking, connecting with like-minded individuals, sports professionals, and community leaders. For people with aspirations to become even more involved in the sports industry, volunteering can serve as a valuable stepping stone for career advancement.
3. Volunteering in sports plays a vital role in building stronger and more inclusive communities. It creates opportunities for individuals from different backgrounds to come together, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness. Through shared passion and dedication to sports, volunteers bridge gaps, break down barriers, and promote inclusivity and accessibility. The connections formed through sports volunteering often extend beyond the field, creating lifelong friendships and strong support networks.
4. One of the most impactful aspects of sports volunteering is the positive influence on the lives of young individuals and the ability to create role models. Volunteers serve as sources of guidance, encouragement, and support. By instilling essential values such as teamwork, discipline, and respect, volunteers leave a lasting impact that can transcend through many aspects of someone’s life. This then cultivates resilient and motivated young athletes, shaping their character, building confidence, and setting them up for future success – and serve as a positive influence for the long term.

Volunteering in sports is a truly rewarding experience that brings about many transformational benefits. ASAPD proudly supports the Australian Sports Commission’s Volunteer Coalition Plan, encouraging people from all walks of life to see and realise the opportunities that are out there to contribute within the sporting community.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the power of volunteering, by visiting https://www.sportaus.gov.au/volunteering. Together, we can make a difference.

Midway through 2023 and Australian Sporting Alliance for People with Disability (ASAPD) is marking two and a half years of serving our eight National Sporting Organisation with Disability (NSOD) members to better advocate, and facilitate, inclusive sport and physical activity for Australians with a disability.

By collaborating closer and forming one unified voice to champion the sector, our aim is to create a world where Australians with a disability can participate in sports at all levels, without barriers or borders. From grassroot level to high-performance, we strive to provide safe and inclusive environments where everyone can participate, learn, and grow.

Recently, the board of directors met in Sydney to finalise our strategic plan, which was a timely reminder of our collective strength and influence.

Facilitated by ASAPD Chair, John Croll AM, the board workshop promoted knowledge sharing, partnership, and perspective, which provided the clarity needed to set a solid foundation for success.

Not only was the time spent productive, but all members benefited enormously from re-connecting in person, sharing challenges, pain points and celebrating the successes across all National Sporting Organisations for people with Disability (NSOD).

John was encouraged by the positive contribution from all attendees saying “The ASAPD board is an impressive collective of some of the country’s most well-regarded disability sports advocates and leaders, and genuinely good people doing really good work. I’m more motivated than ever to see this important Alliance help break down barriers and achieve greater inclusion for all people with disability or impairment.”

As a result, the four core pillars of the ASAPD strategic plan include:

1. Collectively Achieve Greater Policy and Funding Outcomes with Governments
2. Improve the Effectiveness of the Sector by Sharing Resources and Collaborating Efficiently
3. Build and Expand Awareness of Our Purpose, Facilitating Exposure for the Members.
4. Develop Projects that Deliver Member Outcomes

While still a relatively young Alliance, we are grateful to have support from organisations such as the Australian Sporting Commission which allows us to scale for growth.

We are thrilled to now be on the search for a talented Chief Executive Officer to lead the Alliance, and we encourage all interested and experienced applicants to apply.

We will also soon be launching educational programs, working closer with industry groups and partners, and increasing our marketing efforts across paid, owned and earned media channels.

For more information and updates on all of this news, follow our social media channels on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and support our efforts online and offline. Any assistance you can lend is helping the lives of thousands of Australians and we are exceptionally appreciative.

The Australian Sporting Alliance for People with a Disability (ASAPD) has officially been registered as a legal entity, securing financial and strategic support from the Australian Sports Commission (ASC).

ASAPD is made up of the participating Australian National Sporting Organisations for people with Disability (NSODs), who have come together to create ‘one voice’ to increase the accessibility of sport and physical activity for people with a disability, impairment, or limitation – which ultimately supports the people and communities they all represent.

The ASC will support ASAPD as they strive to create more opportunities for Australians with a disability to be involved in sport. This support will allow the ASAPD to invest in member services, employ staff, and deliver strategic objectives agreed by the Alliance.

ASAPD Chair, John Croll, said the new agreement is a significant investment financially, as well as positive recognition of the achievements to date and confidence in the pathway forward.

“Through the support of the ASC and all our members, the ASAPD has built a skilled coalition to raise awareness and deliver improved resources to our sporting sector. The ASAPD is now in a strong position to build momentum and deliver real outcomes for Australians with a disability, and we will continue to be focussed on creating opportunities for people to be active and included in disability sport,” John said.

ASAPD also counts global disability advocate, Robyn Smith, OAM, and Independent Member on the Governing Board of the International Paralympic Committee as a board member, along with skilled Directors nominated by the member organisations some of whom have lived experience.

“For the first time in my 30 years working in the sector, the members have all collaboratively come together to form the ASAPD and shine a light on the power of sport to enhance the lives of those living with a disability. Working together and speaking as one has undoubtedly raised the profile of sport in our sector,” said Robyn.

With a vision for ‘all Australians have an opportunity to engage in sport and physical activity in a welcoming and inclusive environment’ ASAPD aims to better serve the disability sport sector believing that all Australians should have an opportunity to engage in sport and physical activity in a welcoming and inclusive environment, and at all levels – from grassroots, right through to high performance.

To become involved in the ASAPD or to learn more visit www.asapd.org