Hot on the heels of a recent partnership announcement with Golf Ireland, Special Olympics have now unveiled the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote inclusivity with Badminton Ireland.
The initiative creates a pathway and further opportunities for badminton players with an intellectual disability to join Badminton Ireland clubs and take part in Special Olympics activity.
Badminton has always been a popular sport for athletes with intellectual disabilities, with several Irish athletes achieving international success.
The MOU represents a significant step forward in fostering inclusive sports environments throughout Ireland.
Special Olympics athletes who play badminton will now have greater access to clubs across the country, while badminton clubs will be supported in welcoming these players and creating an inclusive community atmosphere.
“We are thrilled to partner with Special Olympics Ireland and give all players with an intellectual disability the opportunity to play our great sport,” said Badminton Ireland CEO Enda Lynch.
“We want to make the starting experience for players and their guardians alike as easy as possible. Badminton clubs throughout Ireland have long been centers of inclusivity and positivity — this agreement makes it even easier to carry on their great work.”
“My thanks to Matt English, Karen Coventry and the team in Special Olympics Ireland for their support, and to the Board and staff of Badminton Ireland for taking on this exciting opportunity.”
“This partnership with Badminton Ireland is a fantastic step in the right direction to provide opportunities to more players with an intellectual disability in an inclusive environment, to play and compete,” added Matt English, CEO of Special Olympics.
“We are very grateful to CEO Enda Lynch, Lauren Au, Conor Fadian, Chloe Magee and the Board and team at Badminton Ireland for their commitment to make a real difference in local communities across Ireland.”
“I’m very confident that this partnership will thrive, and many lives will be improved as a result.”
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