Tag: Disability Sport

Photo of Megan Laird with a gymnastics certificate. She is sitting on a gymnastics balance beam.

The Importance of Having Inclusive Physical Education 

By William Moncrieff, Communications Coordinator 

For Megan Laird being physically active has always been really important. That’s what made it hard when her high school didn’t take an inclusive approach to physical education (PE).  

“In high school, sport made me really exhausted. I hated sports then because I felt like I couldn’t participate,” Megan said. Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) has been trying to influence change within the education system, to make PE more accessible and inclusive for all. This ties in with Paralympics GB’s recent campaign, Equal Play, which specifically targets this. 

Megan is 15 years old and is in secondary school. She is also a current member of the Young Person’s Sports Panel (YPSP). 

Whilst in Primary 4, Megan was diagnosed as deaf and her primary school tried to adapt to her needs and requirements. 

“They did lots of research, looking into what works and what is good for different people. In primary school, sport was absolutely perfect.” 

“In primary school it was really good, everyone went to my needs and aimed to help me, this made me feel really good about myself.” Megan explained. 

When Megan went to secondary school, this is when her experiences and enjoyment of sport started to change. 

“When I was in PE I didn’t like the noise of basketball or other balls hitting the floors, like it made my ears feel really irritated and uncomfortable”, she said.  

“Whether it was football, basketball or tennis I just didn’t like it. I hated the noises.” 

In her school there were only two options: competitive PE or health and wellbeing. Megan attempted to change from competitive PE to health and wellbeing. However, she was told that there wasn’t any space for her in the class. This was eventually resolved. However, in the meantime it started to impact other areas of Megan’s life.  

“I ended up really unmotivated which ended up affecting my schoolwork. This made me feel bad as a person. I was really upset.” 

Once Megan had moved to a class that was more suitable for her needs, she started to enjoy being active again. “We did gymnastics for the first time. I loved it, I got really into it. It’s my sport now”, she said. 

Photo of Megan Laird in a gym, doing gymnastics.  She is getting support to do a move, from an adult instructor.

Megan’s experiences throughout school were a clear motivating factor for her joining the YPSP. It is as a panel member that she has opportunities to share her story and experiences with an aim of making change. 

A head of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, ParalympicsGB released their Equal Play campaign that aims to use the platform that has been grown and developed throughout the Paralympic movement to make sure that every child has the same access to PE. The campaign showcased this through a documentary on the lead up to the Paralympics and with an open letter to the Prime Minister urging to ensure that the next generation of children do not miss out on PE through a lack of inclusion, and the requirement for cross-governmental steps to be taken to achieve this. 

Throughout previous years, SDS have made many efforts to ensure that PE becomes more inclusive to all individuals with the aim that many individuals like Megan, don’t miss out. This is highlighted throughout the ongoing work done with Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA). This involved amending course specifications for National 3 through to Advanced Higher PE to more explicitly mention Para sport, Para athletes and the opportunities available to disabled pupils. 

Further work was done with SQA to amend policies including a reasonable adjustments policy. This has led to there being a process in place for teachers working with disabled pupils in qualification-level PE to request reasonable adjustments for assessments – SDS are now a part of this process. Teachers can also request support for their pupils to take part in PE through SQA. 

Along with working closely with SQA, SDS have also worked with Education Scotland to get boccia added to the list of accepted sports across National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher PE. 

A further step was the launching of the More Than a Bell Ball workshop. With an aim to provide primary and secondary teachers and QTVI staff with additional skills to include pupils with a vision impairment in mainstream PE. 

Similarly, the Inclusive PE Disability Inclusion Training (DIT) workshop was launched. A tailored practical workshop aimed at existing PE teachers and class teachers who may have missed out on Disability Inclusion Training whilst at university. 

To support the delivery of these new workshops, SDS were fortunate to receive generous funding from Motability Scheme to enable the delivery of Inclusive PE and More Than a Bell Ball workshops this year. 

Participants with and without disabilities participate in Inclusive Zone Basketball

Further work was done with Education Scotland and SQA. Where SDS were invited to be involved in the PE National Qualification Support Team made up of PE teachers from across the country. Education Scotland put together a working group of existing PE teachers to review the Inclusive PE DIT workshop and online resources. 

This working relationship has resulted in SDS being asked by Education Scotland to be part of the Health and Wellbeing Curriculum review process. 

Currently SQA and SDS are working together to continually showcase developments in ongoing work, with both closely following the progress of boccia athlete, Layla McCloskey, who is undertaking National 5 PE this year using boccia and frame running as her sports.  

If you would be interested in finding out more about the training and workshops that SDS provide, you can reach out to your Regional Development Manager to find out if they have any training scheduled in your area. Alternatively, you can visit our website to find out more about any Education and Training opportunities.  

Make to follow Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) on FacebookX and Instagram.  Keep up-to-date with the latest news on the SDS website

Judo Scotland are hiring! Business Support Modern Apprentice graphic. With an image of JudoScotland interviewing a Judoka post-competition. JudoScotland logo, Enable logo and Living Wage Scotland logo

Opportunity: Modern Apprentice with Judo Scotland

Judo Scotland has an exciting opportunity for a Modern Apprentice to join their team! This is part of their Supporting Disabled People into Employment in Sport programme, supported by Enable Scotland (Leading the Way).

Application pack is available here.

If you want to discuss this further, please contact Freda McInulty, Judo Scotland Business Support Manager, at FredaMcinulty@judoscotland.com.

 

 

Two photos of Innes Martin playing boccia with his carer

The Positive Impact and Support Network Carers Provide

By William Moncrieff, Communications Co-ordinator


Sport means something different for everyone that participates. For Innes Martin, sport gives him an opportunity to socialise and express himself. Innes is a 33-year-old boccia player from Perth and Kinross, with cerebral palsy and a learning disability. He receives support from a dedicated group of carers in and out with sport.  

Innes has now been playing boccia for around 14 years. This is something that wouldn’t be possible without the support of his carers and family. Innes attends two boccia sessions a week, accompanied by a carer. 

“They [carers] help me throw the ball and once I’ve thrown it, they pick it up. I wouldn’t be able to play boccia without the support of my carers”, said Innes.  

Aran, one of Innes’ carers commented: “We try to give him as little support as he needs. Mainly we fetch and reach things for him, as that is the hardest part, but we aim to give him the independence to do it himself.” 

Although Innes and his carers see sport as a great opportunity to develop independence, the social element plays a large part for Innes. “Sport is a great opportunity for Innes to get out and become more social”, said Aran.  

Innes added to this, saying: “Without sport I would be stuck, stuck without any friends.” 

Joining Innes at his regular boccia sessions has allowed the carers to become quite invested in his boccia development. Some have even got involved: “Sometimes I join in, it’s good fun. We can go against each other or be a team, we tend to push each other”, said Aran.  

Innes’s carers have always enjoyed going with him to boccia and seeing him grow and develop. Aran said: “When he leaves [the boccia sessions], he’s happy and proud, it’s a boost in confidence. It’s really nice to see him do well.” 

There have been many learnings throughout the Martin family’s journey. Consequently, they started Strathern Building Bridges. This charity that they set up is to, “promote integration throughout their community”, Wilma (Innes’ mother) said. 

One way they achieve this, “was through getting our members involved in sporting opportunities”said Wilma.  

SDS’ Regional Development Manager for the Perth and Kinross area, Graeme Doig, is heavily involved with the charity. He said, “I’ve known Innes and his carers for a number of years, initially through boccia and then through the work I do with Strathearn Building Bridges to help bring disability sport opportunities to rural Perthshire. Throughout this journey, his carers have been instrumental in supporting him to attend, enjoy and progress in a variety of sports and meet new people. Their encouraging and supportive approach has benefited Innes to get and stay active through sport and physical activity.” 

The charity hosts many other groups including social clubs and groups that are designed to develop independence and living skills. 

“We also run a session on a Monday night which a lot of Innes’ friends who have a learning disability attend”, Wilma added.  

There are lots of opportunities to get involved in sport and physical activity throughout Perth and Kinross. More information about the sessions offered at the Strathearn Building Bridges can be found here.  

To find out more about how you can get active in your local area, contact your Regional Development Manager.  

Make to follow Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) on FacebookX and Instagram.  Keep up-to-date with the latest news on the SDS website.   

Photo of awards on a table with the SDS blue table cloth

2024 SDS Annual General Meeting and Award Winners 

The Stirling Court Hotel welcomed a celebration of sport as it hosted the Scottish Disability Sport Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday 6th October.  

The day provided the perfect opportunity to highlight the development of disability sport and inclusive practice being implemented across Scotland throughout 2023/2024.  

The annual Branch Conference proceeded the AGM, with presentations and workshops covering a range of topics including: how to implement an accessible and effective communications strategy, Children’s 1st wellbeing and protection, athlete support. Paralympian, Hope Gordon, also attended to share her story about winning a Paralympic silver medal at the recent Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. 

The AGM itself, recapped on the success and areas of growth achieved throughout 2023/2024. A full review of the year, highlighting those key areas can be watched here: 

Guest speaker, Martin Perry, delivered an engaging presentation which showed his journey from first trying table tennis at a SDS Summer Camp, to going on to represent ParalympicsGB at the Paris 2024 Paralympics in both Para table tennis singles and doubles.  

Following this, to commemorate the 100 years since Eric Liddell won the gold medal in the 400m event at the Paris 1924 Summer Olympic Games, SDS is working with partner, Eric Liddell 100 Legacy Project, to recognise and celebrate the life of Eric Liddell.  

100 Eric Liddell Pin Badges are being awarded across Scotland and during the AGM, SDS awarded one to each person from each member branch who demonstrates Eric Liddell’s values while developing disability sport in Scotland. The values being: passion (enthusiasm, dedication, optimism, self-belief), compassion (humility, selflessness, respect, care, community-minded) and integrity (discretion, loyalty, self-sacrifice, principled).

Pin Badges were awarded to:  

  • Graeme Reid (Lothian Disability Sport) 
  • Ron McArthur (Forth Valley Disability Sport) 
  • Bryan Stevens (Highland Disability Sport)  
  • Darren Thomson (Dundee City Disability Sport)  
  • Eddie McLoone (Disability Sport Glasgow) 
  • Christine Webster (Angus) 
  • Kayleigh Haggo (Ayrshire Sportsability) 
  • Fiona Smith (Grampian Disability Sport) 
  • Ryan Evans (Borders Disability Sport) 
  • Ben Sandilands (Disability Sport Fife) 
  • Avril Starmore (Ability Shetland) 
  • John Goldsworthy (Dumfries & Galloway) 
  • Len Richardson (South Lanarkshire Disability Sport) 
  • Stewart Lobban (Perth and Kinross) 

 

As usual, the SDS annual awards ceremony rounded off the AGM – an opportunity to recognise key members of the community:

  • Russell Hogg Bursary – Alex Medley and Elliot Cooper 
  • Community Champion Award – Jennifer Quinton and Eileen Ramsay 
  • Special Recognition Award – Scottish CP Football SquadDedication to Para Football 
  • Award – Ann Brown 
  • John De Courcy Trophy – Gregor Anderson 
  • Glasgow Trophy – Ron McArthur 
  • Elspeth Watson Trophy – Isabel Reid 
  • Russell Hogg Trophy – Mark Stevenson 
  • Fife Trophy – Claire Morrison 
  • Janice Eaglesham Trophy – Perth Strathtay Harriers 
  • Findlay Calder Trophy – Samantha Kinghorn MBE 
  • Brian Dolan Trophy – Stephen Clegg 
  • Angus Trophy – Stephen McGuire 
  • Gordon Brown Memorial Trophy – Stephen McGuire 

 

Make to follow Scottish Disability Sport on FacebookX and Instagram, as well as on the SDS website

Poster of the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 logo and dates: 23rd July to the 2nd August

Commonwealth Games Federation Confirms Glasgow as 2026 Commonwealth Games Hosts

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is pleased to officially confirm Glasgow as the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with six Para sports included on the sport programme.

The 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games will take place in Scotland from Thursday 23 July to Sunday 2 August 2026, returning to the city 12 years after the hugely successful 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Glasgow 2026 will feature a 10-sport programme concentrated across four venues within an eight-mile corridor, ensuring an action-packed broadcast schedule across
each day of competition and making the event accessible and appealing to spectators looking to enjoy the multi-sport environment and festival feel.

With over 500,000 tickets to be made available at a future date, there will be around
3,000 of the best athletes competing from up to 74 Commonwealth nations and territories that represent 2.5 billion people – one-third of the world’s population. Para sport will once again be fully integrated as a key priority and point of difference for the Games, with six Para sports included on the sport programme.

The sports programme will include Athletics and Para Athletics (Track & Field), Swimming and Para Swimming, Artistic Gymnastics, Track Cycling and Para Track Cycling, Netball, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Boxing, Judo, Bowls and Para
Bowls, and 3×3 Basketball and 3×3 Wheelchair Basketball.

A graphic that lists the sports and their sport iconographs.The sports being: athletes and Para athletics, artistic gymnastics, judo, swimming and Para swimming, boxing, bowls and Para bowls, netball, 3x3 basketball and 3x3 wheelchair basketball, cycling track and Para cycling track, weightlifting and Para powerlifting. In the bottom right hand corner of the graphic is the commonwealth games Glasgow 2026 logo and the dates: 23rd July to 2nd August.
Credit: Glasgow 2026

The Games will take place across four venues: Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, Emirates Arena – including the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC). Athletes and support staff will be
housed in hotel accommodation.

The Glasgow 2026 Games will deliver over £100 million of inward investment into the city and is projected to support over £150 million of economic value added for the region, with a model that has been specially designed to not require public funding for the delivery of the Games. An additional multi-million-pound investment has also been secured for upgrading public sporting facilities, alongside funding for city activation projects across the city.

With the confirmation that Glasgow will host one of the world’s biggest multi-sport events and the biggest sporting event in the United Kingdom in 2026, the branding for the Glasgow Games has also been released. For the first time in the Games’ history, the logo combines the Commonwealth Sport logo with the overall visual identity of the 2026 Games – emphasising the central role of the Commonwealth Games within the wider Commonwealth Sport Movement.

The Glasgow 2026 logo features Glasgow graphic elements inspired by some of the engineering, architectural and natural elements found at the heart of the city. The three elements include representations of the River Clyde, the Finnieston Crane, and the Clyde Arc, which are all centrally aligned in the Commonwealth Sport celebration mark in the colours of the waterfront – symbolising the meeting point for sport and culture at the heart of the Games.

Commonwealth Games Federation CEO Katie Sadleir NZOM said, ‘’On behalf of the entire Commonwealth Sport Movement, we are delighted to officially confirm that the 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in the host city of Glasgow. The Games promise to be a truly immersive festival of sport and celebration of culture and diversity that inspires athletes and sports – with a fan experience more accessible than ever before.

‘’With the Commonwealth Games held in such high esteem by athletes, sports and nations across the Commonwealth, we have been working tirelessly with our fellow stakeholders to ensure a high-quality Games will take place in 2026 – securing this vital milestone in the career pathway for thousands of athletes.

‘’The 2026 Games will be a bridge to the Commonwealth Games of tomorrow – an exciting first step in our journey to reset and redefine the Games as a truly collaborative, flexible and sustainable model for the future that minimises costs, reduces the environmental footprint, and enhances social impact – in doing so increasing the scope of countries capable of hosting.

‘’With the reassuring legacy of Glasgow 2014 providing existing sporting, transport and accommodation infrastructure, and world-class venues and expertise, we look forward to working with the Glasgow team to deliver a very special Commonwealth Games in 2026.

‘’Our Movement’s commitment to sport for development and social change remains central to Glasgow 2026 and beyond – with full integration of Para sport a priority the
Games will continue to be an inspiring and impactful platform.’’

Commonwealth Games Scotland Chief Executive Jon Doig OBE, said “We’re absolutely delighted to have secured Glasgow as hosts of the 2026 Commonwealth Games. When we started pulling this concept together just under a year ago, our focus was on creating a Games that was different – that could be delivered to the highest quality, in the short time frame, in a financially sustainable way.

“Glasgow 2026 will have all the drama, passion and joy that we know the Commonwealth Games delivers even if it is to be lighter and leaner than some previous editions. It will be more accessible, delivered on a smaller footprint which brings our fans closer to the sporting action.

“The Commonwealth Games has a special place in the hearts of athletes around the globe, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming them, their support staff and fans from all four corners of the Commonwealth to experience the famous Scottish and Glasgow hospitality. It is an exciting moment for the city and the country.”

First Minister John Swinney said, “The Commonwealth Games is a hugely important event for Scottish sport and an exciting opportunity for the people of Scotland.

“As well as an action-packed, inclusive sports programme that will inspire and excite audiences across the globe – Glasgow 2026 will also be a cultural celebration.

“I would like to thank Commonwealth Games Scotland for their hard work and dedication to produce a viable proposal for Glasgow 2026 – and to the Commonwealth Games Federation and Commonwealth Games Australia for their assistance in helping to secure the Games. I believe this epitomises the Commonwealth spirit and willingness to work together.

“While Glasgow 2026 will look quite different to previous Games, we can, and we must, use this as an opportunity to work collaboratively to ensure that this new concept brings a strong and sustainable future for the Games. The Scottish Government is committed to playing its part in building that new vision.”

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said, “It’s fantastic news that the Commonwealth Games Federation has formally confirmed Glasgow as the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games. This is good news for the Commonwealth Games and yet another opportunity for Glasgow and Scotland to demonstrate their ability to put on world class sporting events.

“There will be a great competitive programme across 10 sports, and I for one can’t wait to see our talented Scottish athletes in action in front of a home crowd.

“The UK Government has actively supported the proposal to bring the 2026 Games to Glasgow, and is providing up to £2.3 million contingency towards security costs. This is a great example of the UK and Scottish governments working together to deliver for Scotland.”

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said, “We’re thrilled to welcome the Commonwealth Games back to Glasgow for 2026, where Scotland’s renowned hospitality and unwavering passion for sport will once again light up the city on the world stage.

“The UK Government has long supported the Games, and we’re proud to have played our part in making Glasgow 2026 a reality, backing the Scottish Government, Commonwealth Games Scotland and the Commonwealth Games Federation to deliver a world-class event.

“Together, we are dedicated to creating an unforgettable Games that will inspire athletes, fans and communities across the country for generations.”

Glasgow City Council Leader Susan Aitken said, “The 2026 Games are an opportunity to set out a new blueprint for the future of sustainable, accessible Commonwealth sport – and it should come as no surprise that the organisers believe Glasgow is the place they can make that happen.

“Our city has a track record that is second to none when it comes to staging major events – and, in particular, working with organisers to make sure new competitions and formats get off to the best possible start.

“Glasgow benefitted greatly from hosting the Games in 2014 and officials have shared expertise and experience with both Commonwealth Games Scotland and the Commonwealth Games Federation as they have developed their plans for 2026.

“These Games will be, by design, different from those the Glasgow hosted a decade ago – but the city will play its part in helping make them a success on their own
terms.”

Make to follow Scottish Disability Sport on FacebookX and Instagram, as well as on the SDS website.

Four athletes in seats focusing head of them on a game of boccia. One athlete is in the middle of releasing a blue ball onto court.

Dundee Hosts Discovery Games and Boccia Engagement Soars

September was a busy month for boccia with competitions, Parasport festivals and courses spread throughout the month. 

Discovery Games

The Discovery Games were held at Dundee International Sport Complex (DISC). It was a busy day with 63 players across three sections. There were 37 Female players and 26 Males which lead to over 110 games being played over 12 courts. A successful day made possible by the many volunteer helpers and officials making the day run smoothly.

Congratulations to the medallists in each section, the medallists were: –

Section A

1st Paul McIntyre
2nd Fiona Muirhead
3rd Scott McIntyre

Section B

1st Zoe Irving
2nd Eleanor Little
3rd Kate Burton

Section C

1st Ross MacNeil
2nd Becky Tyler
3rd Ellie Maclaren

Well done everyone who competed and a thank you to Dundee City Disability Sport for making it happen.

Boccia at the Motability Big Event on Friday and Saturday

Over the 13th and 14th of September Scottish Disability sport was an exhibitor at the Motability event held at the royal highland show. Boccia was one of the activities that were on offer throughout both days. This offering allowed new people to experience boccia and play the sport. As a result of this fantastic day boccia has been experienced and introduced to even more people.

National Boccia Day

On Friday the 27th of September was National Boccia Day. Scottish Disability Sport focused on the aspect of communities that boccia can create. It was fantastic to see how many branches, clubs and people got involved on the day sharing all their stories of what boccia means to them and their community on social media.

Boccia at Parasport festivals in Aberdeen and Fort William.

It is that time of year again when parasport festivals start. There were two Parasport festivals in September. One in Aberdeen and the other in Fort William. Both Parasport festivals had an offering of boccia for their participants. This allowed people to experience boccia, some for the very first time, and introduce them to the sport. Many different games and challenges and lots of fun was had by participants. With some looking to find boccia opportunities now in their area.

Boccia Officials Course

This year SDS had to put on a second Boccia officials course due to a high demand. This course was held in Dundee and had 8 people on the course. After the course, the delegates will need to officiate at one event to be fully qualified. This is fantastic news as more officials will allow more events to happen. Without officials there would be no competitions. Thank you to everyone who signed up and completed the course. The future of boccia in Scotland is looking strong with more officials getting qualified to allow more competitions to happen throughout Scotland.

Photo of Sammi Kinghorn in her racing wheelchair holding the Union Jack flag and standing next to the official clock which shows her new Paralympic record time

One Month Ago: Sammi Kinghorn’s Journey at Paris 2024

By Veronica Buccino 

 

One month ago, on Sunday 8th September, the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games came to a close. Scotland was represented by 21 Scots in ParalympicsGB’s team. The Scots had an impressive medal haul, winning a total of 20 medals in the French capital: 11 golds, 8 silvers, and 1 bronze.

Sammi Kinghorn (Para athletics) had a very memorable Games, contributing five medals (four individual) to the overall tally:

Gold – Women’s 100m T53 – Time of 15.64 (PR) – Day 7

Silver – Women’s 800m T53 – Time of 1:42.96 – Day 4

Silver – Women’s 1500m T54 – Time of 3:16.01 – Day 5

Silver – Women’s 400m T53 – Time of 53.45 – Day 8

Silver – 4x100m Universal Relay – Time of 46.01 (ER, AR), with Zach Shaw, Jonnie Peacock, and Ali Smith – Day 9

 

With her gold in the 100m, the 28-year-old set an incredible new Paralympic record time of 15.64 seconds.

Following the end of the Games, Sammi said: “It’s been the most amazing week I could have ever dreamt of. I really hoped that I could come close. The girl that I was racing, Catherine Debrunner, is incredibly strong and I knew it would be very hard. She was a tenth faster than me going throughout the year. I’m absolutely buzzing that I was able to take the win”.

She surprised herself by finding the podium in the 1500m T54, considering she had never competed in that event at a world championship or at the Paralympic Games.

She said: “I decided to throw myself in there and see what happens. I really kind of thought that I’d probably come fourth, could maybe squeeze a bronze if everything goes right. So to win a silver in that, I was just absolutely buzzing. I feel like I just kind of rode that feeling into the 100m”.

Sammi will never forget the moment when she started her first race in the Stade-de-France: “The whole stadium just erupted, and it was so incredibly loud, it was amazing. We went in for our 4×4 relay, and there were 70,000 people in that stadium all screaming”.

Coping with external pressures and battling the Scottish climate, it is fair to say that the Scot has ample of resilience. “I love training. I love that feeling on my body. I think I’m very lucky that is something that I really love. And I also get very nervous before races and I tell myself that, when they say, ‘on your marks’, I want to roll up with confidence, knowing that I’ve done everything I can to be here. And if I don’t get up and train, then I don’t deserve to be there”. 

After winning one bronze medal at the previous Games (Tokyo 2020), Sammi has shown that she is getting stronger and stronger. It will be exciting to see what lies ahead for the Para athlete in the imminent future.

Make to follow Scottish Disability Sport on FacebookX and Instagram, as well as on the SDS website

 

Hope Gordon smiling on the podium in Paris

Hope Gordon on Her Medal Win in Paris, Representing Scotland and the Importance of Female Influences in Sport

By Bethany Lee

Hope Gordon had an incredible 2024 Paralympics in Paris, leaving with a shiny silver medal in the women’s VL3 200m final alongside her ParalympicsGB teammate Charlotte Henshaw who took the gold.

Hope is now a three-time world silver medalist in Para canoe, storming through the world rankings.

Post-Paris, she hopped on a zoom with Scottish Disability Sport to tell us all about her Paralympics journey, how it feels to represent Scotland and what sport means to her.

 

So, have you recovered from the excitement and exhaustion yet of the Paralympics?

I’ve not really had time to sit by myself and think about it all since I got back. I’ve definitely tried to catch up on some sleep, especially after the homecoming in Birmingham, I had two days just to chill and I think I slept for 23 hours.

That must’ve been very needed. Take me back to that moment when you realised you had just won a Paralympic silver medal.

Well, we’ve kind of had the top two spots for the past few years, me and Char. Obviously we both want to win, but I was happy that she got it, and it was just really cool to get those top spots for ParalympicsGB. This is my first Paralympic medal so that was really special.

I also think to have so many family and friends in the stands, and knowing there’s a lot more watching back home, was really cool. It almost means more to me seeing how much it means to other people.

You were the only Scottish para canoer in the ParalympicsGB team – how does it feel to be able to represent Scotland?

I’m always so proud to fly the flag for Scotland within our team. Hopefully we will get more Scottish athletes within the system, I know there’s a couple that have just started out in a boat now, so hopefully over the next few years we see more racing. Maybe I’m the first, but I definitely don’t think I’ll be the last, so that’s the important thing.

It’s special to be the only one, and my family always makes sure there’s some Saltires in the crowd so that makes it easy for me to spot them!

And obviously you’re a brilliant para Nordic skier as well, did you feel different going into Paris after competing in the 2022 Winter Paralmypics?

It was a bit daunting going to the Winter Paralympics being so new to the sport and racing against massively established athletes. I was definitely a wee fish in a big pond, and it was quite significantly out of my comfort zone; but equally I actually think that benefited me going into Paris this year.

Even though it was a much bigger event, all I need to do is just paddle in a straight line as fast as I can and there wasn’t anybody on the start list in Paris that I hadn’t raced before so I kind of knew what I was doing, which wasn’t the case in Beijing.

You were the first female para-Nordic skier on the ParalympicsGB team. Do you think things have changed for female athletes?

I think with Paris this year what was really good was that we had the same events. In Tokyo within paracanoing, the guys had an extra event than the girls which obviously wasn’t great, especially since it was the event that I probably would have done. So, it’s a big step forward even from Tokyo to Paris and within our sport to have the same amount of events.

Within our team, the girls are super strong and it’s really cool to be a part of that. We got 8 medals, and the girls got 6 of those so it’s a strong team, especially on the female side.

On the Nordic side, it was a bit different being the only one. It’s just about taking opportunities and trying tings and just because you haven’t seen a female that looks like you doing the same sport, it doesn’t mean it’s not possible.

Fitting with that idea, it is Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week, and the theme is leadership. Are there any female coaches or influences in your life that have helped pushed you to where you are today?

I’ve had a few female coaches over my time. For swimming, when I was in Sterling, I had a female coach, Kerry, who got me through some quite tough times in and out of hospital.

I also think that such a big part of performance sport that people forget about is the volunteers, especially in rural areas. We would be absolutely lost without volunteers, and a huge portion of those, in my experience, have been female. My mum is actually one of those volunteers, it’s been a long time since I’ve been swimming at the clubs at home, but she’s still a volunteer coach.

When I joined the GB team, it was heavily male dominant from a staffing perspective, whereas now one of the main coaches is female, and the physio is female and she’s the best sports phsycio I’ve ever had, we would be broken without her.

Quite literally I can imagine! Do you think your younger self would believe where you are today and what you’ve achieved in sport?

I first watched the Paralympics in 2008 when I was in Yorkhill Children’s Hospital in Glasgow. I’d just had a procedure that hadn’t gone to plan, and it left me quite ill, I had to lay completely flat on my back for a long time and I was put into a little side room and there was this tiny TV in the corner, and I watched the Beijing Summer Paralympics. If you’d asked that 13-year-old lying in a hospital bed if I’d go and compete in a summer and winter Paralympics in the space of two years and come away with a meal, there’s no way I would have thought I could do one of those things, nevermind all three of them.

Sport has been massively important, doctors told me that if I wasn’t so active my condition would have spread or gotten significantly worse. There’s also the psychological side of it, it gives you structure in your day, it gives you a reason to get out of bed. I think for me when I was going through quite a tough time, it felt like I could leave my wheelchair at the side of the pool and forget about it for two hours.

I genuinely don’t know what I would have done if I didn’t have sport as a bit of an outlet to help me cope with things.

Finally, looking ahead, what is next for you?

I don’t know, is the honest answer, but I definitely hope I’ll be on the team in LA in a boat!

A young boy in a kayak in an indoor swimming pool. Two young ladies are in the water supporting him as he paddles.

Great Success at Grampian and Highland Parasport Festivals  

By William Moncrieff, Communications Apprentice 


The Grampian and Highland Parasport Festivals took place over the weekend (Friday 27th and Saturday 28th, respectively), officially starting the SDS Parasport Festival 2024/2025 season.  

Aberdeen Sports Village hosted Grampian’s Parasport festival, with Lochaber Leisure Centre was the venue for Highland’s.  

Having just joined SDS in early June, it was Elizabeth Mills’ first time oragnising a festival in her area. She described the day as, “Absolutely amazing”, which left her a bit speechless.  

She said, “I wasn’t expecting it to be so moving and touching and I think a lot of parents and volunteers and coaches have felt that as well. All the kids have just been absolutely incredible at what they do.” 

The Highland Parasport festival was organised by Kathryn Talbot-Heigh, her second whilst in position as Regional Development Manager (RDM) at SDS. 

“I think the Parasport Festivals are really good for being able to provide new sports to the participants who wouldn’t have had the confidence or opportunity to try before,” said Kathryn,  

“We have a couple of children here today who are playing rugby for the first time, they are now asking to play it long term, this now means that we can try support the local rugby club to provide this in the area.” 

Across the two Parasport festivals, participants got to try boccia, swimming, kayaking, rugby, shinty, bowls, cycling, table tennis, snow sports and athletics.  

Not only do the Parasport Festivals provide participants with a fantastic introduction to sports but they can also provide an opportunity for personal growth and development. This is something that Jamie, a parent who brought their daughter, Bessie, to the Highland Parasport festival, noticed.  

“Sport is a fundamental building block for children to have both inside and outside of school. Certainly, by introducing Bessie to a range of new sports and locations to do these sports has given her a lot of new confidence.” He continued to say: “She has definitely grown a lot as a person, meeting new people with their own needs and disabilities has helped. You can see with Bessie that the festival has also helped her overcome social anxieties.”  

Elizabeth – also known as Wizzy – believes that the festivals are very important because, “they [parents, children] don’t know what’s out there. It’s really difficult to get that contact – to try and find other people to contact to get involved in that sport and if they don’t have my email where else are they going to go? So, this is a good introduction to the pathways which they can then follow.” 

Reaching remote areas across the country is a crucial part of the work as a SDS RDM.  

“Within the Highlands we won’t have the huge numbers but it is just as important that children in these rural areas have the opportunity to come and take part because they are still the same children in mainstream schools with disabilities that can’t always take part,” said Kathryn. 

“It might be that we only have 10 or so children participating, but it is really important to have something that they haven’t had to travel long distances to access,” Kathryn explained. 

Louise Gillespi, the National Development Manager at SDS, attended the event in the Highlands, and viewed it as a huge success.  

“It’s great to be here in the Western Highlands. Usually we are around the Inverness area, so it’s nice to be in a new location.” 

She continued to say, “It’s great to be here with some new sports like shinty to showcase, showing that these sports can be inclusive. It has been good to provide the participants with a range of sports, that way they can work out what works for them, hopefully they can then go and take this knowledge and find a regular sport throughout their local communities.” 

If you would like to try a new sport in your area, find out more here or contact your RDM (via the same link).   

Stay up to date with the latest news and opportunities by following SDS on FacebookX and Instagram, as well as keeping tabs on the SDS website

Scottish Disability Sport National Survey 2024

Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) is excited to introduce its first ever National Survey. SDS aims to address inequalities experienced by people living in Scotland with a disability or a long-term health condition when trying to be more physically active. To make sure that these actions are making a meaningful difference, SDS would like to hear from adults (16+) living with a disability or long-term condition in Scotland. For example, what makes it difficult for you to take part in sport and physical activity and what would make it easier?  Even if you do not take part in any activity, we would still like to hear from you. Please share this survey with your networks and encourage anyone eligible to complete it as it will make a difference in the future.

We are working on producing an easy-read version for the next wave of circulation and if anyone should need any additional support in completing the survey please contact SDS on admin@scottishdisabilitysport.com or on 0131 317 1130.  

(This survey is created in collaboration with researchers at Queen Margaret University Edinburgh and builds on the report produced by the Observatory for Sport in Scotland and University of West of Scotland and SDS are grateful to all who helped support this survey, including our sister organisation Activity Alliance who provided invaluable insight from their survey experience).

LINK TO SURVEY – SDS NATIONAL SURVEY 2024

QR Code Link to Survey, below: 

QR code of the SDS National Survey 2024 form