Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme launched at St. Gabriel’s School

Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme launched at St. Gabriel’s School. Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme (MATP) caters to athletes with severe disabilities

St Gabriel’s School, Dooradoyle proudly announced the official launch of the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme (MATP) on March 21, 2024

The MATP caters to athletes with severe disabilities, where physical and/or behavioural challenges may hinder their engagement in conventional Special Olympics events.

Unlike traditional competitions, MATP prioritizes training and participation over competition. It focuses on enhancing fundamental motor skills associated with official Special Olympics sports and emphasises personal progress.

Through tailored training sessions and adapted equipment, the program aims to provide an inclusive environment where individuals of all abilities can thrive.

At St. Gabriel’s School, students have eagerly embraced the opportunity to participate in weekly MATP sessions. Under the guidance of their dedicated teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) and with immense help from the local Transition Year students from Crescent College Comprehensive, led by Tony Trehy, the students have been honing their motor skills and exploring new athletic endeavours.

These collaborative sessions not only facilitate skill development but also promote teamwork, communication, and mutual support among participants. The official launch event welcomed parents, supporters, and distinguished guests to witness the remarkable progress achieved by the students.

New athletes had the chance to showcase their learned skills and talents, demonstrating the impact of the Motor Activities Training Programme on their physical abilities and confidence. Among the esteemed guests present at the event were several athletic VIPs, including Adam English, accompanied by the prestigious Liam McCarthy cup, as well as Rosemary Ryan, Síofra O Shea, and Eileen Ahern.

Their presence added an extra layer of excitement and celebration to the occasion, inspiring students to continue their journey towards personal growth and achievement. The success of the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme at St. Gabriel’s School would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the school’s SNAs and teachers.

Their unwavering commitment to the students’ development and well-being has been instrumental in bringing the program to fruition and ensuring its ongoing success.

Speaking about the launch, St Gabriel’s School Special Olympics Coordinator Maria Nolan said, “For years our students have been practicing these motor skills as part of their school life, under the guidance of their teachers and SNAs. Now to officially be practicing under the Special Olympics umbrella is just such a fantastic milestone; they are finally getting the recognition they deserve for all their hard work and efforts.

“We are so excited to see where this will take us and really proud of our wonderful students. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the tremendous support and hard work of our staff, the collaboration with our lovely neighbours at Crescent College, the unwavering dedication of parents, and, above all, the determination and enthusiasm of our students.

“It’s wonderful to witness the incredible outcomes that result from collective effort and teamwork. We are really looking forward to the journey ahead.”

As the Special Olympics Motor Activities Training Programme takes root at St. Gabriel’s School, the community looks forward to witnessing the continued growth and achievements of its participants.

Through dedication, collaboration, and a commitment to inclusivity, St. Gabriel’s School remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.

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