Catherine Maloney is on a mission for her son and for disabled kids everywhere. Working alongside Wheelchair Sports NSW, she wants to build a sporting and play lifestyle for disabled children in Forbes to help create a sense of achievement and belonging.
“There are many children with disabilities here, but no one ever sees them,” says Catherine whose son Logan was left with a range of physical disabilities after a fall at two and a half years. “These children need exercise and a place where they can form a social network, selfesteem and form who they are through play. They develop their social awareness through play at a young age and if they don’t get the opportunity, there can be many repercussions
in their behaviour and how they turn out in their adult life.”
Catherine says the program doesn’t have to be competitive, it’s meant to be a hit and a giggle; kids having some casual fun with sports like fencing, basketball, rugby and tennis. There is also the possibility of lining up coaches and para-Olympians to mentor and buddy the children.
She envisions an inclusive environment where kids don’t have to be wheelchair bound and participants can be both physically or mentally disabled. “I want to help them feel like they’ve achieved something, rather than just watching
the other kids,” she says. “A lot of them spend so much time in hospital which is exclusive and when they’re at home, they need to be included. Their home time should be a happy time.”
If you would like to help Catherine make this dream a reality, head down to Forbes Services Memorial Club on Wednesday 30 September between 12pm-2pm to discuss the development of sporting opportunities for individuals with a disability within the Forbes area. Sports coaches are also encouraged to take an interest and turn up to the meeting.