SPECIAL OLYMPICS MEDIA RELEASE

Special Olympics Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that inspires
> people with an intellectual disability to reach their personal best
> through regular sport and competition.
>
> Often misconceived, Special Olympics is not a single event for elite
> athletes.
> Volunteers provide sports opportunities for all people with an
> intellectual disability, regardless of their skills, and they do this
> every week in communities across Australia.
>
> While some athletes strive to win medals, others enjoy the chance to get
> active, have fun, make friends and feel part of a family. Whatever their
> motivation, all athletes are encouraged to feel proud of themselves in a
> world where they face challenges.
>
> Special Olympics South Australia has supported the Limestone Coast to host
> a number of events locally including teaming with SAPOL for the Run with
> the Law Torch Run in 2010. This year Port Pirie and Adelaide athletes
> travelled to Mt Gambier for a Ten Pin Bowling Weekend, and a multi-sports
> skills day was held at Tenison Woods College.
>
> Local athletes have been training in football (soccer) skills with coaches
> firstly at Tenison Woods College but currently at Grant High School on
> Mondays from 4 to 5pm. This weekend Special Olympics South Australia is
> being supported by SEWFA to hold a 7 a-side weekend. With coaches from
> Adelaide, members of SOSA Adelaide Football club and members from Adelaide
> Paralympics Football team are travelling to the region for skills training
> and round robin games. It promises to be a fantastic weekend. Saturday
> kicks off at 10am at the Blue Lake Sports Park, Jubilee Highway, Women's
> League grounds and supporters are welcome!
>
> It is envisioned that the Limestone Coast will be an accredited Special
> Olympics region by the end of October eventually offering regular training
> in a number of different sports, hosting our own events and being a
> platform to other sporting avenues for local athletes. To be involved in
> any capacity or for enquiries please feel free to contact Special Olympics
> State Manager Lisa Hester by phone 8234 8730, email
> lisah@specialolympics.com.au or visit the website
> www.specialolympics.com.au/sa for more information. Local contact can be
> made by ringing Anne on 0421676671 or contacting Recreation and Sport 'be
> active' Field Officer Angela Solly on 8723 1057.