Category: Q & A

Meet Pierre Comis, the dedicated and passionate CEO of Special Olympics Australia (SOA). With over two decades of experience in sport development and participation, Pierre’s journey includes notable roles with major sporting organisations such as the AFL and NRL, as well as 12 years at the Australian Sports Commission. His commitment to inclusivity became evident when he designed and developed the Inclusive Sport in Schools program, ultimately leading him to take on the role of CEO at SOA.

Pierre, a father of three, is not only a seasoned professional but also a role model for inclusion, driven by the desire to make a positive impact in both his professional and personal life. His leadership at SOA is marked by a focus on Physical Literacy, strategic partnerships with National Sporting Organisations, and innovative initiatives like the Inclusive Sport Academy. Pierre’s vision extends beyond traditional barriers, emphasising the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and enjoyment for everyone involved. With a track record of success, including Australia’s remarkable achievements at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Pierre Comis is steering Special Olympics Australia toward a future where individuals with intellectual disability not only participate in sports but also become valued members of the broader sports community.

Welcome, Pierre! We’re excited to have you join us. Can you please give us a glimpse into your professional background, highlighting the key milestones that led you to your current role as the CEO of Special Olympics Australia?

Thank you for the warm welcome! My professional background spans over 20 years in sport development and participation and I’ve had the privilege of working with several sporting organisations here in Australia, including the AFL for four years, the NRL for two years, and 12 years at the Australian Sports Commission (ASC).  

My journey with Special Olympics Australia (SOA) began with a contract to design and develop what is now the Inclusive Sport in Schools program. This revealed to me the potential for working in disability sports. Motivated by this, I pursued the CEO role when it came up at SOA, aiming to play my part to amplify inclusivity.

As a father of three inquisitive children in primary school, I’m motivated to be a strong role model for inclusion. It’s important to me that I demonstrate the value of making a difference and fostering inclusivity, both in my professional role and as a parent.

Having worked with major sports organisations such as the AFL and NRL in the past, how has that experience influenced your approach to fostering participation in sports at different levels? Are there any specific strategies or insights you’ve gained that you find particularly valuable in promoting inclusivity? 

Absolutely, my time with the AFL and NRL has significantly shaped how I approach sports participation at all levels, especially in terms of driving inclusion.

One key insight was the importance of adopting a Physical Literacy (PL) approach that focuses on developing the whole person. This becomes particularly crucial in an era where declining physical competence, confidence, and motivation has fuelled the decrease in physical activity.  Special Olympics Australia (SOA) has embraced this approach in our new Schools and Playing for All programs, recognising its role in cultivating a lifelong love for sports and physical activity.

To deliver inclusion outcomes, building partnerships between SOA and National Sporting Organisations (NSOs) has proven pivotal. SOA brings expertise in working with individuals with intellectual disability (ID), while NSOs specialise in the delivery of specific sports. By collaborating strategically, we can pool resources and expertise for more impactful programs. 

This is also a focus of the broader ASAPD organisation, led by our CEO Dr Phil Hamdorf. ASAPD is perfectly placed to deliver the essential resources, information and expertise to sporting organisations, to enable more people with disability to be adequately included in sport around the country.

Additionally, the Australian Sports Commission’s modern approach to coaching and hence, coach education, has been extremely valuable. The key is to adapt your coaching style based on varying ability levels of participants, regardless of disability. By embracing this approach, we ensure sports are not just accessible, but enjoyable for everyone – this aligns perfectly with our mission at Special Olympics Australia.

As the CEO of Special Olympics Australia, what do you perceive as the distinct challenges and opportunities in promoting sports and physical activity for individuals with disability?

The landscape of promoting sports and physical activity for individuals with disability presents distinctive challenges and opportunities.

One major challenge is the above-mentioned decline in Physical Literacy (PL), impacting both those with disability and the broader population. There’s also a lack of awareness about accessible sports opportunities, demanding more effective promotion and widespread information dissemination.

Coach education forms another hurdle, with coaches often feeling unprepared to work with individuals with disability. To overcome this, our online learning platform – Inclusive Sport Academy – equips coaches, teachers and industry professionals with the skills and confidence necessary for inclusive sport coaching.

Amidst these challenges, numerous opportunities arise. Collaborating with National Sporting Organisations (NSOs) to co-design programs lets us tailor solutions and bridge gaps. Leveraging NSOs’ reach and credibility offers a powerful avenue to promote inclusivity through established platforms. Balancing these challenges and opportunities propels our mission to make sports and physical activity inclusive, engaging, and empowering for individuals with disability across Australia.

Have there been any specific initiatives or approaches that you have implemented to address these challenges and maximise the potential for inclusion?

Absolutely, we’ve implemented several impactful initiatives to address challenges and enhance inclusivity. One strategy of ours was to integrate physical literacy (PL) into program design and coach training to further reinforce our commitment to inclusivity through education. You will see this in our programs; Inclusive Sport in Schools, Playing for All, and Young Athletes, along with our new coaching course, “Improving Physical Literacy for People With ID”.

Collaborating closely with National Sporting Organisations (NSOs) has also propelled our efforts. We’ve formed partnerships across four core areas: Delivery in Schools, Coach Training & Education, Local Clubs/Programs, and Joint Competitions. For example, Gymnastics Australia introduced a Special Olympics division in the National Club Championships, while Bocce Australia included Special Olympics Australia athletes in their National Championships. Aligning with NSOs strategically allows us to leverage their expertise and resources, therefore creating incredibly impactful programs.

The Australian team achieved remarkable success at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin earlier this year. Could you share some highlights of the team’s accomplishments and the impact it has had on the athletes and the broader Special Olympics community in Australia?

The achievements of the Australian team at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin were exceptional and have made a lasting impact on both the athletes and the wider Special Olympics community in Australia. To say I am proud is an understatement. To provide a brief snapshot: 

• The event featured 7,000 athletes from 176 delegations, participating in 26 sports over 9 days, making it Germany’s largest multi-sport gathering since the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. It also marked the first return of the Olympic flame to Berlin since the 1936 Olympic Games.
• The Opening Ceremony drew an impressive audience of 50,000 spectators, with a total of 330,000 individuals attending venues throughout the Games.
• Australia’s team of 64 athletes secured a total of 63 medals, including 15 gold, 22 silver, and 26 bronze medals.
• The Australian team was supported by 164 official supporters (family), marking the largest support group ever.
• The team’s success also gained extensive media coverage, including 43 radio interviews, 7 TV spots, and numerous articles.

As a member of the Australian Sporting Alliance for People with Disability (ASAPD), how do you believe the alliance contributes to advancing the rights and opportunities for people with disability in the realm of sports and physical activity?

ASAPD is a collective effort involving eight-member National Sporting Organisations for People with Disability (NSODs). This unified voice advocates for the disability sports sector, effectively raising awareness and influencing policies. By joining forces, ASAPD not only highlights the importance of inclusion and accessibility, but also shapes initiatives that drive tangible improvements in the opportunities for people with a disability.

This alliance provides a powerful platform that amplifies the voices and actions of member organisations. This amplification leads to greater empowerment, inclusivity, and participation for individuals with a disability, ultimately creating a sports landscape that’s more inclusive and diverse.

In your opinion, what are some of the key barriers that prevent participation in sports and physical activity, and how can these be addressed?

Participation barriers in sports and physical activity are complex and addressing them requires a number of approaches. As highlighted earlier, declining physical literacy poses a significant challenge. The conventional “build it and they will come” mentality falls short in today’s context, as the population lacks the competence, confidence, and motivation it once had. To overcome this, we must reimagine how we engage with physical activity, and look to an environment that prioritises inclusivity.

Additionally, the traditional framework of sports, particularly from the age of 12 and onward, tends to emphasise winning and competition over fun and engagement. To break down this barrier, we need to shift our thinking by offering modified programs and experiences across all age groups and ability levels. By diversifying our approach and offering alternatives, we create avenues where everyone can participate in accessible sports and enjoy it.  As a sport sector, we must seek to meet people where they’re at.

Expanding beyond traditional sports and embracing a broader view of physical activity is also essential. We need to connect participation to contemporary, inclusive, and socially focused sport offerings – acknowledging that physical activity can take various forms and still contribute to individual well-being. In doing so, we can make physical activity and sports more relevant and appealing to a wider audience.

What role do you believe sport and physical activity play in fostering social inclusion and improving mental well-being?

Sport and physical activity plays a vital role in nurturing social inclusion and enhancing mental well-being, and at Special Olympics Australia, sport serves as the conduit for individuals with intellectual disability to form meaningful connections. Through shared experiences on the field, athletes build friendships that surpass challenges, creating a strong support network for both athletes and their families.

These connections offer a sense of belonging and understanding. As athletes engage with peers facing similar challenges, they find strength in knowing they’re not alone, which in turn positively influences their mental outlook and self-esteem. In essence, sport is a powerful agent for social connection and mental wellness and is particularly evident in the Special Olympics Australia community.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for the future of Special Olympics Australia? Are there any specific areas or initiatives you plan to focus on to further advance the organisation’s mission?

Our goals for Special Olympics Australia revolve around a new strategic plan, guiding our path for the next five years. Key to this plan is partnering with mainstream sports to promote inclusion. By collaborating with established sports organisations, we aim to expand our reach and create an environment where individuals with intellectual disability not only participate in sports but also become valued members of the broader sports community.

Additionally, we’re excited by the release of Australia’s first sport participation strategy by the Australian Sports Commission, which paves the way for sporting organisations to come together and reimagine the way sport is provided for all Australians. It will leave a legacy of unity and acceptance across the nation, inspiring communities to come together and celebrate the unique contributions of every individual, through the wonderful vehicle of sport. Special Olympics Australia is excited by the opportunity to ensure everyone has a place in sport.

Fast five: Top food, top book, top destination, top person, top tip

• Food: Italian – especially pizza.
• Book: Anything by John Grisham – #1 is A Time to Kill.
• Destination: New York City.
• Person: My wife, Rosa (a superstar wife, mum and all round human). I’m also a big fan of Arnold Scwarzennegger’s story – especially his resilience, passion and attitude to life.
• Tip: It’s from Richard Branson and I applied it to my decision to both apply for and accept the CEO job at SOA! He says: “If someone offers you an amazing opportunity and you’re not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later”.

In our latest Q&A, we had the privilege of speaking with Phil Harper, General Manager of Deaf Sports Australia since 2019. Phil’s journey highlights his profound commitment to advocating for deaf rights, particularly in the realms of sports. Here, Phil shares his transformative experiences, insights into the positive impact of sports on mental health, and the invaluable mission of Deaf Sports Australia in promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sports for deaf and hard of hearing Australians. Phil is also an ASAPD Board Director.

Welcome, Phil, and thank you for joining us. Your dedication to the Deaf Sports Community in Australia is truly inspiring. As a person who is deaf, how did sports play a transformative role in your own life? Can you share a particular moment that influenced you to dedicate yourself to this area?

Communication access is a key to successful participation in community life and sport. Fortunately, with many sport activities, as a young kid communication was not a big factor to be involved and enjoy – we all just went out and played and had fun.

As I got older, despite being quite skilled in most sports, I started to fall behind due to coaches spending more time talking about the game, strategies, etc to help everyone achieve their best – so it became more and more about how your mind was able to understand and use that knowledge in the sport activity. Missing out on these discussions impacted my ability to go to the next level and compete well, and therefore gain personal satisfaction and confidence in my ability to participate and contribute.

I learned about why I was not succeeding as well as others later as an adult and the reasons why – it galvanised me to find ways to ensure that other deaf and hard of hearing sports people would not go through the same experience.

Having experienced firsthand the power of sports in your life, from your perspective, how does participating in sports positively impact the mental health and overall well-being of the lives of deaf or hard of hearing Australians? And why do you believe it is essential to continue encouraging and supporting their active involvement in sports?

It is clear that sport and physical activity is a significant contributor to enjoying a positive outlook on life and being part of a wider community for all Australians – deaf and hard of hearing people are no different.

A key aspect of our work is to offer sport and physical pathway opportunities for young primary school aged deaf and hard of hearing kids that leads to ongoing interest in pursuing these activities for the rest of their lives. We know from experience, that these opportunities, particularly if they are enjoying them with their peers, support a positive sense of identity and wellbeing and encourages them to aspire to ‘being the best’ they can be.

As the General Manager of Deaf Sports Australia, can you tell us more about its mission and vision, and how it aims to bring about positive social and physical benefits to people with disability through sports?

Our major goal is to strive towards full accessibility and enjoyment of sport and physical activity participation, whether that be through our own-created sport programs and events or through wider community activities.

We try to provide opportunities where we can and are resourced to do so, from grassroots to elite sport pathways through collaboration with all national, state and local sport organisations. This can lead to potentially representing Australia in International Deaf Sport competitions.

We are a community that has been around over 140  years since the first deaf sport club was formed, so we have developed a strong culture and connection that is embraced during our pinnacle event, the Australian Deaf Games, where over 700 deaf and hard of hearing Australians participate.

Deaf Sports Australia runs a number of programs and projects. Could you share some of the organisation’s proudest achievements and milestones in promoting deaf sports and inclusion over the years? 

In 2024, Deaf Sport Australia will be celebrating 70 years since they were formed as an incorporated Federation and 60 years since our first Australian Deaf Games.

We have many highlights on all levels that include successfully hosting the Melbourne 2005 Deaflympics with over 2,500 deaf athletes from across the globe; Active Deaf Kids schools program that started in 2013 and has seen over 5,000 deaf and hard of hearing children participate in sport clinics across Australia; and more recently 250 deaf and hard of hearing primary aged school students participating in an Athletics Sports day.

We are blessed with many deaf and hard of hearing Australians who have volunteered their time with our organisation in different roles including Board members, coaches, officials, sport program facilitators and sport activity volunteers – without them, we would not be a thriving and sustainable organisation.

Can you share some of the ongoing initiatives and future plans of Deaf Sport Australia that you believe will have a lasting impact on the lives of deaf and hard of hearing Australians? 

The 2024 Australian Deaf Games are happening in January in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie with over 900 participants enjoying 18 different sports and social / cultural activities.

We have just launched our first ever Museum exhibition at the Newcastle Library celebrating 140 years of Deaf Sports in Australia which will continue until March 2024 – this showcases our history, culture, language and sport achievements collectively which will instil a sense of pride and knowledge to all visitors.

The Australian Deaf Games are coming up in 2024, after being postponed from 2022. How does Deaf Sport Australia plan to make this event a significant sporting legacy and foster lasting impacts for both the participants and the broader community?

We are hosting our 19th Games in 2024, so clearly it has a legacy and ability to be our pinnacle event for deaf and hard of hearing sport participants and their families. We continue to increase awareness of this event to over 20,000 deaf and hard of hearing school students across Australia, as an opportunity to meet with their peers, enjoy a sense of identity and social inclusion which may give them a springboard to explore further opportunities along the sport pathway.

And what can athletes and spectators look forward to in terms of fostering a sense of community and inclusion?

There will be 14 sports across 8 days in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region, which include a social and cultural program, ceremonies, Deaf Sport history museum exhibition experience and time to meet new and old friends.

The local communities will get a taste of having a cultural and educational experience in interacting with and supporting inclusion for the Games participants.

You are a Board Director here at ASAPD, how do you see the organisation’s role in promoting inclusive sports and changing community perceptions, stereotypes, and biases around disability?

Collectively, ASAPD has already and can make further in-roads in encouraging a more inclusive and equal ‘playing field’ for all Australians, in particular those who are deaf or hard of hearing or who have a disability. This is being done through advising and collaborating with the government, ASC and the Sport industry. We are now an active part of the Australian sport network and can influence positive change and directions.

The world has seen increased interest and appreciation for disability sporting events. How do you see these events contributing to changing societal attitudes towards disability, and how can we further amplify their influence?

Recognition that we are all equal and some are just different. A key message that continues to resonate and be a positive influence on society – we just have to make sure we can accommodate all those differences.

Fast five: Top food, top book, top destination, top person, top tip

Food – Vegetarian Lasagne (only if I make it)
Book – One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
Destination – New Zealand
Person – My father
Tip – Don’t bet

In our upcoming Q&A session, we had the pleasure of catching up with Gary West-Bail, Integrity and Project Manager here at ASAPD. With an impressive career spanning over 30 years in sports management at various levels—ranging from clubs to state and national platforms, including AFL, hockey, and multi-sports—Gary brings a wealth of expertise to the table.

His involvement in change management has been instrumental in fostering an environment of sustainable success, guided by a strong sense of vision, culture, and ethos, all supported by essential governance principles. In addition to his role at ASAPD, he is the Project Manager at Deaf Sports Australia. Gary demonstrates a deep commitment to providing inclusive sporting opportunities for individuals with disability, embodying a passion for creating welcoming and accessible environments for all Australians.

Moreover, his active engagement with the ASC Volunteer Coalition highlights his profound understanding of the crucial role that volunteers play at the grassroots level of sports organisations, ensuring their continued viability and success.

Thank you for joining us today, Garry. Can you share some insights into your extensive career in sports administration and what initially sparked your interest in this field?

I’ve always been drawn to the dynamic combination of athletic achievement and the various challenges that came with it. My initial interest in this field was driven by my own experiences, playing high-level sport in my early years, creating a natural transition into the world of sports management.

It was in my mid-30s that I made the decision to leave an international forwarding career to pursue a path in sports management. Fast forward over three decades, I’ve gathered a wealth of experience in senior sports management roles, spanning clubs, states and the national level; including my involvement with St Kilda Football Club (AFL), Hockey Queensland and Deaf Sports Australia. On top of that I hold degrees in Transport Economics, Accounting, along with Masters’ studies in Sports Law.

Beyond my professional endeavours, I’m an active participant in various volunteer roles within the sporting community too. Ranging from involvement with AFL clubs to contributing to the Queensland Olympic Council and local footy clubs, it’s all about my dedication to the growth and wellbeing of sports at all levels.

As the Project and Integrity Manager at ASAPD, could you highlight some of the key initiatives or projects you are currently involved in and how these will contribute to the advancement of disability sports within Australia?

We have several exciting initiatives that we are currently focusing on. Some include:

• Enhancing the visibility and recognition of ASAPD through strategic branding and messaging with the aim to be a unified voice for all sports, all disabilities.
• Creating a more accessible website that is both informative and navigable for all users. We aim to provide a hub of information, resources and updates that will foster engagement and participation within the disability sports community.
• Continuous collaboration with key partners to develop education modules that will enrich understanding and awareness of disability sports.
• The refinement of the ASAPD business model, ensuring its viability and alignment is in line with our organisational goals.

You are also the Project Manager at Deaf Sports Australia. With the 2024 Deaf Games coming up next year could you share your thoughts on the significance of these games for both the deaf community and the broader disability sports community? How do you anticipate these games will impact the visibility and recognition of deaf athletes?

It’s worth noting that In 2024, we’re celebrating 60 years of the first Australian Deaf Games in the current format, building on a legacy dating back to 1880 when the first inter-state competition took place. We are also celebrating 70 years since Deaf Sports Australia was formally recognised. These efforts collectively drive inclusivity and excellence in Australian deaf sports.

As with previous Games, 2024 will hold profound importance not only for the deaf community but also for the broader disability sports community. It’s a powerful platform for establishing lasting legacies that extend beyond the event itself.

To me, these Games are more than just a competition; they’re a means to amplify the voices and talents of participants. By providing a stage for athletes to be both seen and recognised, the 2024 Deaf Games will not only showcase their skills, but also highlight strong team ethos, and celebrate the passion that drives them to excel.

Participation, dedication and skill, will serve as an inspiration to others while challenging misconceptions about the capabilities of individuals with hearing impairments. Ultimately, the 2024 Deaf Games will not only elevate the deaf community’s standing within the world of sports but also contribute to a broader cultural shift towards inclusivity, diversity, and a greater appreciation for the achievements of all athletes, regardless of their abilities.

Within your current roles, what standout moments or initiatives are you most proud of?

There are several standout moments and initiatives that I’m particularly proud of. One of these is the evolution of the Inclusion Alliance, a collaborative effort between Blind Sports Australia, Deaf Sports Australia, and Sport Inclusion Australia. This alliance operated alongside the development of the ASAPD entity, and I’m pleased to have played a role in its growth.

Another is my involvement in supporting the establishment of ASAPD. From its early stages, I’ve had the privilege to contribute to shaping the entity and laying a solid foundation for its operations. It’s been an incredible journey, witnessing the growth of a new organisation committed to promoting inclusivity and excellence in disability sports.

On top of that, managing and providing support to the 2024 Australian Deaf Games Organising Committee since its inception in mid-2018 has been a significant accomplishment. Finally, collaborating with governments and cities to determine the host for the 2026 ADG are also highlights.

You are a strong advocate for volunteering in sport. What motivated you to join the Australian Sports Commission’s Sports Volunteer Coalition?

My motivation to join the Australian Sports Commission’s Sports Volunteer Coalition was to represent ASAPD and to ensure people with a disability are seen and heard in the sporting landscape. Additionally, it was an opportunity to contribute to the development of a cohesive plan to support a strong volunteer ethos, enriching their experiences and sense of self-worth.

With a background in coordinating and collaborating with volunteers throughout my professional journey, which includes overseeing various state, national and international hockey events, as well as three Australian Deaf Games, I understand the invaluable contributions that volunteers make to the success of sporting endeavours. This advocacy resonated with my mission to create an environment where all individuals, regardless of their abilities, are empowered to participate and thrive in sports.

How do you believe this coalition can contribute to ensuring that individuals with a disability are visible within the sporting landscape, and what role does volunteering play in achieving this goal?

I firmly believe that this coalition has the power to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes associated with disabilities by reinforcing the notion that sports serve as a vehicle for personal growth, confidence building, and self-empowerment. I also believe it can play a transformative role in ensuring that individuals with a disability are recognised in not only sport, but society in general.

Volunteering plays a pivotal role in achieving this goal. It not only facilitates the practical aspects of sporting events but also cultivates an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Through volunteering, people from diverse backgrounds unite, promoting understanding and respect. This collaborative spirit dispels misconceptions and empowers individuals with a disability to actively participate and excel, ultimately reshaping the narrative of disability in sports.

Looking ahead to the future, what developments or trends do you find most exciting or promising in the field of disability sports? How do you envision these advancements shaping the landscape for athletes with a disability?

The growing understanding, acceptance, and normalisation of inclusive thinking and actions that encompass the entire community. It’s incredibly encouraging to witness the widespread belief in the message and stories that advocate for sports as a transformative opportunity for all individuals to engage and reap benefits from participation.

This shift in perspective holds the potential to reshape the landscape of disability sports. As inclusive practices become more embedded, we can anticipate greater opportunities and engagement in sports across all abilities. Recognising the unique value that athletes with a disability contribute to the sports will elevate the sports experience for all.

If someone were to ask you for advice on where to start in making a more inclusive environment, where would you direct them? Are there specific resources you recommend they explore?

I would direct them to the ASAPD website. There, they can explore a range of toolkits, videos, and education modules. Engaging with these resources can enhance their understanding and belief in our person-first philosophy, serving as a solid starting point for promoting inclusivity.

Fast five: Top food, top book, top destination, top person, top tip

• Food – anything from SE Asia in particular Vietnamese
• Book – Saigon by Anthony Grey
• Destination(s) – Vietnam, Laos and Mayrhofen in Austria
• Person – grandparents for their different insight and support – both real and subliminally
• Top Tip – How many directions does a river flow – two – from where the river has come and where the river is going to – at the confluence of these two directions you can see the bottom of the river and see where you are.