AC Awards Finalist Feature – Owenabue Special Olympics Gymnastics

Owenabue Special Olympics Gymnastics are a finalist in the Community Inclusion category of the Cork Sports Partnership Active Community Awards 2024. Winners revealed on 29th November 2024. Further details on the Awards and ceremony below.

Owenabue Special Olympics Gymnastics: Building Confidence, Strength, and Connections    

Owenabue Special Olympics Gymnastics is a vibrant community group dedicated to providing gymnastics opportunities for individuals with special needs. Based in Carrigaline, this incredible initiative combines the joy of physical activity with the empowering sense of achievement that comes from learning new skills. Through their work, they foster not only physical development but also a sense of community and belonging for both participants and volunteers. 

The group focuses on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals of all abilities can thrive. Weekly sessions are designed to teach gymnastics skills, promote physical fitness, and encourage personal growth. From mastering balance and coordination to developing flexibility and strength, each activity is tailored to the unique needs of the participants, ensuring everyone feels empowered and valued. 

For the gymnasts, the benefits go beyond the physical. Regular exercise is crucial for improving overall health, coordination, and motor skills, but it also has a profound impact on mental well-being. Participants often gain confidence as they overcome challenges, experience pride in their achievements, and develop a sense of independence. Gymnastics offers them the chance to shine, whether in local events or just during weekly sessions, fostering a positive self-image and a can-do attitude. 

Social interaction is another cornerstone of the program. Each session is filled with laughter, encouragement, and teamwork, allowing participants to form meaningful connections with peers and volunteers. These friendships help combat feelings of isolation and provide a strong support system within the group. 

The volunteers, too, gain immensely from their involvement. Supporting the gymnasts and witnessing their progress is incredibly rewarding. Volunteers develop a deeper understanding of inclusivity, gain valuable experience in coaching and teamwork, and often describe their time with the group as life-changing. 

Owenabue Special Olympics Gymnastics demonstrates the transformative power of physical activity for individuals with special needs. By combining exercise with social interaction, they create a safe and encouraging space where everyone can thrive. For participants, it’s a chance to grow stronger, more confident, and more connected. For volunteers, it’s an opportunity to give back to the community while gaining new perspectives. Together, they create a community rooted in acceptance, joy, and empowerment. 

Active Community Inclusion Category:

This award is to acknowledge groups or organisations that provide a leading role in the area of inclusion in their communities.  Their aim is to minimise social exclusion and/or help to improve the quality of life and reduce barriers to participation for socially excluded groups through physical activity or sports. 

This award will focus on support which has been given to socially excluded groups in the area of sport and physical activity. 

Live Awards Ceremony:

Join us at 7 pm on Friday, 29th November, as we reveal this year’s Active Community Awards winners across our categories of Group, Campaign, Inclusion and Champion.