The 3 year programme, in partnership with ACC, will offer connection, opportunity and professional development to selected pre high performance para athletes and coaches. This will be in the form of in-person camps and exclusive online forums.
The Paralympic journey can be a lonely one, even more so if you’re involved in an individual sport. In the past, many para athletes have never met athletes from other disciplines. The Para Sport Collective aims to change that, facilitating new opportunities for development through shared experiences. This in turn will positively impact performance and well-being.
The first camp is scheduled for May 2023. Up and coming para swimmer/cyclist Siobhan Terry is excited.
“There's teamwork behind what we do and knowing that we have that support going forward is really cool to see. I think this approach is new and fresh and it's going to bring a lot to the (para athlete) space. I look forward to seeing what comes of it.” she says.
The collective is also for coaches who are beginning their journey coaching pre high performance para athletes. Siobhan Terry’s coach, Jack Cooper, who initially identified her potential, is thankful to be along for the ride.
“Connecting the whole para community together is really important. I feel strongly about giving athletes a sense of belonging, and I want them to enjoy their cycling. Getting involved in the Para Sport Collective early on is fantastic.” he says.
