Special Olympics Suffolk delivery partner, ActivLives, celebrated ‘National Boccia Day’ in style with a Boccia Festival held at Gainsborough Sports Centre in Ipswich on 26th September. Sixty-six players participated, with the brilliant support of staff and volunteers. In addition to the many individual players there were participating groups from Avenues East Ipswich, Leading Lives Stowmarket, Suffolk Rural College, Suffolk One and Papworth Trust. The event was particularly targeted at players with an intellectual and/or physical disability. No previous boccia experience was required to get involved.

The day started with four groups taking part in skills challenges. Team challenges were the main theme throughout the day. There was also an individual  “Control the Roll” challenge in the afternoon.

Feedback from the players has been brilliant with comments such as:

“I hope to do this again next year – Happy National Boccia Day to all”. “I love it that all ages and abilities come together to enjoy boccia”.

“Fabulous – so inclusive, we feel very happy to be part of it”. “A very welcoming and friendly day. Lots of different games – we loved it!”

ActivLives would like to thank all of their partner organisations for their support with this event, particularly Special Olympics GB (everyone loved the great SOGB medals!), Special Olympics Suffolk, Boccia England and the Suffolk Community Foundation.  

If you are interested in finding out more about boccia with ActivLives and how to get involved, email mike@activlives.org.uk or call the ActivLives office on 01473 345350