A strong line-up of Central Coast community leaders and local identities are ready to take their place on the Community All Stars side to face off against the NDIS Social Futures team in the annual Blind Cricket Community Challenge on Friday, December 6.
To be held at Gosford’s Adcock Park in celebration of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), the challenge has been organised by NDIS partner Social Futures in conjunction with Blind Sports and Recreation.
It will showcase a sport enjoyed worldwide, while raising awareness and understanding for the 5.5 million people (one in five) living with disability in Australia.
Former captain of the NSW Blind Cricket Team and Social Futures Community Development Co-ordinator Scott Jones said the competition was heating up heading into its third year.
“The Blind Cricket Community Challenge offers participants a chance to wear experiential glasses that replicate different vision impairments, and players bowl underarm using an audible ball so others on the field can hear it coming,” he said.
“With scores level at one apiece, this third match will break the tie as both sides are gearing up for a spirited rematch.”
Each side will be captained by professional athletes from Blind Cricket Australia, who will give lots of great tips along the way.
The whole community is invited to join in kicking the day off at 11am with a come-and-try session where everyone can have a go at batting and bowling out on the pitch, with experts on hand to guide participants.
Enjoy tandem bike rides designed for people living with visual impairment, meet seeing-eye dogs and tuck into a free barbecue lunch before the big match starts at 1pm.
Jones said skills developed by players benefit them on and off the field.
“As a former captain of the NSW Blind Cricket team, I’ve seen firsthand how sport develops leadership qualities in people living with disability,” he said.
“Playing Blind Cricket teaches adaptability and strategic thinking and fosters teamwork.
“These are qualities players carry with them off the field and into leadership roles in our communities.”
Disability sports are a great way for people to connect and meet new friends, spend some extra time enjoying the outdoors and improve health and fitness, Jones said.
NDIS partner Social Futures also offers The Blind Cricket Experience as a free initiative for NSW schools.
For more information visit Social Futures Blind Cricket or call 1800 719 625.
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