Parafed BOP Inclusive Sports Day Draws Incredible Crowd at Waihī Beach

Brighton Reserve in Waihī Beach came alive recently for the second annual Parafed BOP Basketball and Sport whānau fun day, with children and teenagers of all abilities taking part in a packed programme of activities. The event drew praise from participants and organisers alike, with Parafed BOP's Suzanne Morrison describing the turnout as "incredible".

The day grew into a wide collaboration between several organisations. Tauranga City Basketball Association's senior development officer Chelseah Savage joined forces with ex-Tall Black Byron Vaetoe from Basketball NZ and Wayne Chase from the NZ Roller Blacks to run drills and scrimmages with attendees. Representatives from Special Olympics Tauranga and the NZ Men's Whaikaha team also attended, including former Waihī College student Todd Maitland and his mum Tina, who serves as an assistant coach.

Northern Districts Cricket Association coaches ran games of cricket on the reserve alongside the basketball, ensuring everyone stayed active throughout the day. Youngsters were able to try wheelchair basketball, with many finding it both challenging and eye-opening. Waihī Beach resident Maija MacCalman said the atmosphere was energetic and inclusive, with tamariki of all abilities playing together and learning from inspirational athletes.

The event's inclusive design meant children with disabilities could participate fully across all activities, from 3x3 basketball games and group drills to cricket and wheelchair scrimmages. Organisers hope the growing collaboration between sporting bodies will continue to expand opportunities for rangatahi of all abilities across the Bay of Plenty.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).