With inclusivity the name of the game, the second annual Boccia for the Kids event is just around the corner.
Erin Genge, manager of community engagement and events for the Foundation of the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent, said the appeal of the game is that people of all ages and abilities can take part on the boccia court.
“One thing we’re finding really neat is this event is truly inclusive. People with disabilities play alongside able-bodied people in the exact same way,” she said. “When you play, you will sit next to someone who may not be playing the same way as you, but we’re levelling the playing field so everyone is competing at the same level.”
The goal is to land as many of your balls as close to the jack (white target ball) as possible. Players may roll, either by hand or down a ramp, balls onto the court.
Last year’s event raised $35,000. Genge said she’d love to see $40,000 brought in this year at the Nov. 14 tournament at the Bradley Centre.
About two dozen teams registered already, Genge said, but there’s still time to get involved. Registration deadline is Nov. 8.
Genge said the fundraiser is close to her heart.
“A friend of mine taught me about the sport and he learned to play at the Children’s Treatment Centre,” she said. “I realized this was something we could do for the community. Now, we have people coming from all across Ontario for this event.”
Genge reminds everyone you don’t have to be an expert to take part.
“If you have no experience, you can register and we’ll give you a crash course before the first game,” she said.
The treatment centre was recognized recently at the regional association of fundraising professionals for Boccia for the Kids, for inclusion, diversity, equity and access (I.D.E.A.), Genge said.
To register for the tournament, visit ctcf-ck.com/bocciaforthekids.
Teams are guaranteed three games of round-robin play before the playoffs begin. Genge said lunch and some swag come with the entry fee. She encourages teams to fundraise.
Funds raised through Boccia for the Kids will directly support essential programs at the Children’s Treatment Centre, including social Work, therapeutic recreation, music therapy and specialized equipment — services that are not fully funded by government sources but remain critical to the well-being of children and families in Chatham-Kent.
