News: Mini Stars Compete At Stoke Mandeville

Sport England

11 May 2007

Between the 4th - 6th May, Stoke Mandeville was host to the Disability Sports Events Mini Games 2007. 70 6-12 year olds gathered at the home of disability sport to attend the numerous events.

There were endless opportunities for disabled children to try many sports including polybat, table cricket, boccia, swimming and a selection of track and field events. 

This weekend of sport is often the first time away for many of the children so it is about independence as well as participation. It is also an ideal opportunity to spot future stars. Young gifted and talented stars are encouraged to develop into junior and senior performers in many sports.

Last year, Amicus the Union, through its foundation, announced that they would be supporting the Mini Games Programme until 2012 in a deal worth over £175,000. In a seven year programme, Amicus is likely to see many participants from this event go on to achieve medals in many international events, maybe even the Paralympics in 2012.

Amicus General Secretary Derek Simpson remarked about the partnership: "One of our many campaigns is for access to work, fair pay and training opportunities for all regardless of age, sex, race or disability. We understand that sport plays an important part in developing young people's potential to get the most out of life. We hope that by sponsoring this event we can help many youngsters achieve their full potential both in sport and at work".

The Mini Games is always an exciting event to attend and Gordon Neale OBE, Director of Events looks forward to meeting the young stars: "This is the opportunity to spot this country's future talent. Some of our best Paralympians have once participated in this event. Thanks to Amicus Foundation we can continue to inspire young gifted children to take up disability sport".

For the next six years, DSE and Amicus Foundation aim to increase the amount of participants at the Mini Games. If you know of any children who would be interested in taking part in the future, please contact DSE Head Office on 0161 953 2499.

The Nationwide Junior Sports Awards will be given again to the two most outstanding children and team at the event. These will be distributed at DSE's exclusive end of year ceremony.

• More Sport England Articles
• Back to the Latest News