Following the GAA Autism Summer Camp, sports inclusion disability officer, James Murrihy recalled the Clare Sports Partnership (CSP) wanted to build on the example set by Tulla and Derg AC by using this template for a similar programme in Corofin GAA club. What followed was the first Corofin All Stars programme for children with additional needs “An inclusive programme will only work if there is a drive and participation from volunteers within the club,” Murrihy pointed out. “It is also important to set up a sustainability plan with the help of the CSP to ensure it doesn’t end after six weeks. CSP can provide training and education for volunteers as well as advising them about grants for equipment.” Read Dan Danaher’s full report on the project here
Read More »GAA Camp for kids with additional needs a big success
THE organisers of the first Corofin All Stars programme for children with additional needs are thrilled with the success of their innovative pilot project, writes Dan Danaher. In fact, the success of the first dedicated programme for children with special needs in a Clare GAA club exceeded the expectations of Eimer Ni Riain, Crystel Robbins Rynne and Adrian Beakey. On Sunday, some of the Intermediate footballers and coaches dropped into the start of a new programme of training children in GAA skills. Ms Ni Riain, who has 30 years experience as an occupational therapist, doesn’t have any child involved in the sessions. The practice education co-ordinator on the occupational programme in the University of Limerick saw there was a gap for children with special needs who weren’t participating in sporting activities. “The programme helps children with special needs to engage with other children in a fun and safe way that is different to going to therapy and school. “In addition …
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