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Cairns children with disabilities trial different sports

Children with disabilities in Cairns had the opportunity to trial a range of different sports alongside athletes from the NRL, Football Queensland, Tennis Australia and more.

CHILDREN with disabilities in Cairns had the opportunity to trial a range of different sports on Wednesday.

The children’s charity Variety held its Activate Inclusion Sports day at Redlynch Central Sports Stadium to encourage children with disabilities to engage with sport.

St Therese's College students twins Max and Zavier Joinbee wait for a pass from Subaru Shimokawa during specialised coaching by national Rugby League at the Spoorts Day. Picture: Brian Cassey
St Therese's College students twins Max and Zavier Joinbee wait for a pass from Subaru Shimokawa during specialised coaching by national Rugby League at the Spoorts Day. Picture: Brian Cassey

The children were able to trial sports alongside athletes from the National Rugby League, Football Queensland, Tennis Australiaand many more.

Fourteen-year-old Ben Wenzel from Redlynch has cerebral palsy and is an avid tennis player.

Queensland's Activate Inclusion Sports Day at Redlynch Central Sports Stadium. 14 year old St Augustines College student and young tennis star Ben Wenzel took time off school to share his talents with students during specialised coaching by Grit Tennis at the Sports Day. Picture: Brian Cassey
Queensland's Activate Inclusion Sports Day at Redlynch Central Sports Stadium. 14 year old St Augustines College student and young tennis star Ben Wenzel took time off school to share his talents with students during specialised coaching by Grit Tennis at the Sports Day. Picture: Brian Cassey

His mother, Jennifer Wenzel, said he was very happy that other kids could find their passion like he had.

“He was hoping that other kids could find the sport that is great for them. Tennis has given him something he has loved to do with inspiration from people like Dylan Alcott,” Ms Wenzel said.

Queensland's Activate Inclusion Sports Day at Redlynch Central Sports Stadium. Redlynch State College student Hendrix Bing (centre) breaks towards goal during specialised coaching by Football Queensland at the Spoorts Day. Picture: Brian Cassey
Queensland's Activate Inclusion Sports Day at Redlynch Central Sports Stadium. Redlynch State College student Hendrix Bing (centre) breaks towards goal during specialised coaching by Football Queensland at the Spoorts Day. Picture: Brian Cassey

Variety chief executive Steve Wakerley said this event was critical for students.

“Sport is such an incredible platform to meet people, try new things and make friends.

“Every child deserves this opportunity,” Mr Wakerley said.

Originally published as Cairns children with disabilities trial different sports

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Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/cairns/cairns-children-with-disabilities-trial-different-sports/news-story/207aefc2fd9f0ee0165f444a30da114a