The important role sport plays in inclusion
Summary
This episode of The Hard Shoulder features Kate O'Neill, coordinator of Navan's adult Pel for All GAA team, discussing how the club provides inclusive football for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. They highlight the importance of community belonging, the challenges of accommodating diverse abilities, and the team's growth from three to over twenty players. The conversation emphasizes the need for more adult inclusion programs in sports and shares the personal impact on O'Neill's brother, who now identifies as a player rather than just a supporter.
Topics discussed
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Intro: One Day Many Voices and Navan Manu Pel for All
Kate O'Neill introduces the adult Pel for All team
Team size, weekly training, and community role
Origins, competitive nature, and lack of local rivals
Challenges in connecting with other Pel for All clubs
Personal motivation and impact on players' lives
Coaching structure and accommodating diverse abilities
Future goals: GAA expansion and adult inclusion
Advice for starting a team and organic growth
Personal story: Kate's brother and sense of belonging
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