Looking for an accessible sport to get involved in?

It’s no secret that getting involved in sports is a great way to improve your fitness, meet new people and just have fun. We know it can be tricky sometimes to find a sport that works for you, especially if you are living with a disability. This is where the Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association (SWDA) comes to play. SWDA has a heap of options for sports that could be for you, from wheelchair basketball to boccia.

Speaking of boccia, Lochlan Thomas is the Program Officer for a new boccia team in Ipswich, and he certainly knows his stuff.

Lochlan has been involved in boccia for the past five years, starting out in high school and going on to compete at state and national levels. Now that he isn’t able to devote as much time to the sport, he wanted to find a way to pass on his boccia experience and give others the opportunity to get involved. That’s when SWDA found Lochlan and appointed him as Program Officer to run the new Boccia program in Ipswich.

“I want other people with disabilities to know there is a sport out there they can play,” Lochlan said.

“It’s a great opportunity for people to join a team and make some friends. I have made friends for life through boccia.”

Lochlan says it’s important people know boccia isn’t just a game, it’s also a professional sport that people can get involved in at a community level, all the way up to competing in the Paralympics.

“Whether it’s for fun, exercise, or even your career, you should give it a go!” Lochlan said.

Lochlan is currently on the lookout for members to join his Ipswich team.

“I’m looking for at least four new players,” he said.

“All abilities and skill levels are welcome; all you need is a good attitude.”

It’s safe to say that anyone who joins Lochlan’s team will be in very capable hands.

If you are interested, all you need to do is contact Lochlan at ipswichboccia@sportingwheelies.org.au.

If you’re not located in Ipswich, or if boccia isn’t your style, check out SWDA for more information at www.sportingwheelies.org.au. You can also find them on Facebook or call 07 3253 3333.