Hurricanes Inclusion Cup embraces the chill

MOST Tasmanians think cricket is a summer sport.

But the Hurricanes Inclusion Cup is changing this mindset by extending its “sport for all” philosophy into the colder months.

A partnership between Special Olympics Tasmania and the High Performance Cricket Centre has seen the start of the inclusive indoor program that provides a fun activity during winter.

Hurricanes Inclusion Cup southern region coordinator Jason Schmidt said the first session of the Hurricanes Inclusion Cup Indoors, which kicked off last month, was a “huge success.”

He said the event saw nine participants and their families come from across Hobart for a bat and bowl.

“There was great support from the High Performance centres and young volunteers from New Town Cricket Club, making this program a real community partnership,” he said.

“The cricket program highlights the importance of providing positive and inclusive programs in the community for people with an intellectual disability.

“It provides an opportunity to play cricket in a fun, friendly and inclusive team environment.”

Special Olympics Tasmania and the Hurricanes Inclusion Cup aim to transform the lives of people with an intellectual disability by providing regular training sessions that improve health and develop connections to the local community.

The Hurricanes Inclusion Cup Indoors is held every Tuesday at the High Performance Cricket Centre in Kingston from 4pm to 5pm.

The program is open to anyone with a disability.

For more information, email Jason Schmidt at info.tas@specialolympics.com.au or phone 0412 140 263.

Caption: Participants in the Hurricanes Inclusion Cup Indoors.