A SocaRama for students with special needs was recently hosted by the Sacred Sports Foundation.
This initiative, the latest edition of a small-sided pan-disability football event, was a collaboration between the Ministry of Education’s Special Education Unit, Sacred Sports, the FIFA Foundation, TUI Care Foundation’s Helping Hands Fund, and the Including Us project funded by the European Union.
Chairman of Sacred Sports Foundation Inc., Delroy Alexander said the initiative was a celebration of talent rather than a competition.
“It is the culmination of our annual community outreach efforts working with children with disabilities, aimed at creating friendships and developing communication and footballing skills,” he said. “It is really a celebration of the skills and progress throughout the year, bringing together 400 students, teachers, mentors, and volunteers.
“The SocaRama football fiesta gives us a chance to see the amazing skills of the students on show; and our youth mentors, who do most of the work alongside the special schools’ physical education teachers, get the opportunity to express their joy in working with the children and also show what they have learned about working with the community.”
Alexander also noted significant strides in physical, social, and emotional development achieved by participants during the event.
“We have seen improved motor skills. The structured activities and regular physical exercise help children enhance their motor skills and overall physical fitness. The programme encourages and fosters a more active lifestyle, which is crucial for the physical health of children with disabilities,” he said.
“Participating in team sports fosters social interaction and teamwork, helping the children build friendships and improve their communication skills. Success in our programmes and the encouragement from peers and youth mentors significantly help boost the self-esteem and confidence of participating children.”
While he admitted there were some challenges putting the event together, including diverse needs and accessibility, cultural sensitivity to inclusion, and logistical coordination, Alexander indicated that these were effectively managed through strategic planning by stakeholders. He thanked all those who contributed to making the initiative a success.
“Special Education Unit officer Dale St. Juste and Vieux Fort physical education teacher Johnson James have been crucial in assisting and guiding the process, encouraging us to help strengthen efforts to provide more diverse opportunities for special education students,” he said.
Alexander disclosed: “SocaRama is growing from strength to strength, and expanding such showcases to other sports is likely on the cards moving forward.”
