In a significant move towards inclusivity in sports, a 10-week wheelchair tennis pilot program is scheduled to commence this December. This initiative aims to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in sports, potentially uncovering future national athletes while enhancing participants’ quality of life.
The SportCares Foundation is spearheading this project, with financial support from the US Embassy in Singapore for the procurement of wheelchairs. Porsche Asia Pacific has also contributed, covering costs related to coaching, transportation, and other program necessities.
Grace Fu, the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, emphasized the project’s societal impact, stating, “This new initiative by SportCares highlights our commitment to community service. Through efforts like the SportCares movement, we strive to build a more inclusive society where everyone has the chance to participate and excel in sports.”
Empowering Through Sports
The program is designed to engage more Singaporeans with disabilities, encouraging them to enhance their lives through active sports participation. Minister Fu shared these insights during a tennis clinic organized by SportCares for underprivileged girls, which coincided with the WTA Finals at the OCBC Arena.
In the past year, SportCares has successfully run the Love Singapore program, which focuses on teaching tennis to girls and promoting their involvement in the sports community. Participants have volunteered at the Southeast Asia Games in June and are set to represent Singapore as young ambassadors at the Asean Para Games’ Nila suite for athletes.
The forthcoming wheelchair tennis pilot will involve six to ten youths and adults with disabilities, who will learn the fundamentals of the sport under the guidance of coach Sjaiful Sjahrin. To ensure the program’s longevity, SportCares plans to collaborate with the Singapore Disability Sports Council, educational institutions, special needs groups, and voluntary welfare organizations.
Derek Yzelman, a 59-year-old polio survivor, shared his perspective, saying, “Many might not expect individuals with disabilities to pursue sports. However, I have always chosen to rise above. Engaging in wheelchair tennis and racing has brought me immense satisfaction, boosted my self-esteem, and improved my fitness over the years.”