News Details

Title:  Boccia starting in Lisburn LeisurePlex Monday 1st March Date:   25th February News Details: Activity: Boccia Venue: Main Hall, Lisburn LeisurePlex Date: Mondays for 5 weeks: 1st March, 8th March, 15th March, 22nd March and 29th March Time: 10:30am -12:30pm (Please note: on 1st March teams are asked to arrive at 9:45am for registration) Cost: FREE! Refreshments will not be provided but participants can use the LeisurePlex cafe if they wish. Please note anyone who requires support to participate will need to bring their own support with them. Transport will not be provided. This is being organised and run by Kelly Dougan, Sports Development Officer, Lisburn City Council with support from Cathy Hunter, Development Officer BOCCIA NI. Please note: for this competition at least 1 of the 3 players on each team must be a person with a disability. To register teams and request any further information please contact: Kelly Dougan Community Sports Development Officer Lisburn City Council Tel: 02892 509566 This is a 5 week pilot following on from the very successful Lisburn Boccia League.

Title:  Could you be in London 2012? Date:   22nd February News Details: The search is on for both male and female athletes to help take Ireland’s adaptive rowing team to glory at London 2012 Paralympic Games. With a few spaces still to fill in the team, Rowing Ireland are currently looking for athletes who are between the ages of 18-35, are eligible to hold an Irish passport and who meet the required classifications as outlined below. Anyone who feels they meet the criteria and would be interested in finding out more should contact adaptive rowing coach John Armstrong on johnaarm@btinternet.com before 26th February 2010. Male Athletes Over 175cm standing height Preferably 75kg + in weight Have one of the following disabilities: Double above the knee amputee Cerebral Palsy Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Have all 3 levels of function: Truck function Hip flexor function Full use of upper body Female Athletes Over 170cm standing height Preferably 70kg + in weight Have the following Disabilities: Below knee amputee Other disability that meets all 4 levels of function Have all 4 levels of function: Full arm function Full trunk function Hip flexor function Function of legs above knee

Title:  Green Zone Team Triumph at Senior Boccia Championships Date:   19th February News Details: 30 teams from all over Northern Ireland descended on the Antrim Forum yesterday to compete in the Northern Ireland Senior Boccia Championships with the 'Green Zone' team from Ballycastle emerging as Champions. The MS Group from Portadown picked up the silver medals and the Owls team from Craigavon picked up bronze. Each team of 3 players, at least one player with a disability in each, were guaranteed at least 3 matches and after several closely fought group matches, the semi finals line up was: SEMI FINALS: Green Zone 2 Station Road Blues 1 MS Group 4 Owls 1 3RD/4TH PLAY OFF: Owls 3 Station Road Blues 2 FINAL: MS Group 2 Green Zone 5 Thank you to Antrim Borough Council's Sports Development Development, Craigavon Borough Council's Sports Development Department and all the referees who helped out on the day.

Title:  Free Tennis Coaching for Deaf People Date:   11th February News Details: TennisXperience Learn to play tennis for free with fully qualified tennis coach Anthony Sinclair, at the Ozone Leisure Complex, Belfast. On 11th April, 11am-3pm for 5-16 year old children and 4-6pm for 16+ and adults. To book: Email antstar84@hotmail.com or text 079 7098 4340 before 14th March Ozone Leisure Complex, Ormeau Embankment, Belfast, BT6 8LT

Title:  KNIGHTS JUNIORS FINISH TOP OF THE LEAGUE Date:   9th February News Details: The Knights Juniors continued with their jet setting season when they travelled to the Metropolitan Police College in Hendon, London at the weekend. This was the last of a series of games for the Knights young guns in the Great Britain Southern League, and having only been beaten once so far two wins from three games would secure the top spot and win the League. First up came the Norwich Lowriders, and the young Knights were quick off the mark putting points on the board with some lovely lay-ups from team captain James MacSorley and Cameron Campbell. The Knights finished the half with a healthy lead and were able to rest a few of their experienced players. On for the Knights came Connor Browne, the Nagle brothers, Conn and Eoin and Simone Mathews, the now changed team had to settle quickly as the Lowriders played much better to try to force their way back into the game. It was too little too late for the gutsy Norwich team as the Knights cruised home for their first victory of the day winning 28 to 16. Next up came Milton Keynes Aces who also had league winning aspirations and this proved to be the Knights toughest test yet as the Aces fielded a few tall players who towered above the young Knights. The Knights struggled to cope with the height of their opposition and went 8 points down with no reply. Coach McAlleese called time out to compose his team and the tactical change paid dividends as the Knights began to claw back the score and by the half they took the lead at 10 – 8. The second half was a different game as both teams traded baskets with the Aces pulling back again to level at 19-19. With the game becoming tight the Knights looked for a break and they got it when number 9, Jack Agnew “El Nino”, forced his way into the key and shot a neat basket from an impossible angle to pull 2 points ahead. With one minute left the Knights were controlling the game and as the clock ticked away to the dying seconds a defensive error let the Aces in the key to take 2 points and level the game once again at 21-21 to force the game into overtime. The game was now up for grabs and the question was who could take their chance, the chance came to the Knights as the Aces fouled Agnew when shooting and the resulting point and possession led to a nice lay-up by captain MacSorley. The Knights finished the game 24-21. The final game of the day was against the Hampshire Hornets, the only team so far to beat the Knights in the league, so the Knights were out to settle an old score. The game started at a good pace with some good basketball by both teams with the Hornets scoring with some excellent outside shooting. The knights brought on Luke Marshall and Padraic Farrell to attack the key and soon the Knights got it together and were now out shooting their opponents. Young Conn Nagle “The Rash” was all over their top shooter keeping him at distance with some resistive pressing annoyance, however Conn’s persistence got him knocked over and the shock led to his substitution, but he left to a standing ovation by the watching crowd. The knights continued with their hard work and with the baskets now dropping they eased home to victory winning 21-11. The young Knights won 9 games from 10 and finished top of the Great Britain Southern League, coach Steven McAleese commented “ I am pleased to be coaching this group of kids, their hard work and dedication has paid off this weekend by finishing top of the league, I am pleased with their development”. Captain James MacSorley added “We are playing well now and we all have trust in each others ability. Winning the League with 9 wins and only 1 defeat is fantastic for us and it will give us confidence for the Play-Off’s in Nottingham next month”. Congratulations to the Knights and we wish them well for the Play-Off finals next month in Nottingham. Do you have a physical disability? Would you like to play competitive sport at the highest level? If you answer “yes” to both questions and would like to get involved then contact the Knights through their website www.niknightswbc.btik.com.

Title:  First Athlete from Northern Ireland Set to Compete in Winter Paralympics Date:   4th February News Details: Kelly Gallagher from Bangor has become the first ever athlete from Northern Ireland to be selected to compete in the Winter Paralympics. Kelly, a partially sighted athlete, will fly out on Wednesday to Vancouver, Canada to compete in the Alpine Skiing events with her guide Claire Robb at the Paralympic Winter Games which will run in the city from 12-21st March 2010. Kelly, who has just returned from competition in Spain, is 1 of 7 athletes selected to represent ParalympicsGB at the Winter Games. A relative newcomer to the GB set up, Kelly is certain to be a huge asset to the team. Kelly is currently funded under the Sport Northern Ireland Athlete Support Programme and supported by the Sports Institute for Northern Ireland. Kelly is also supported by Disability Sports NI and speaking on behalf of the organisation is Elaine Reid, Kelly’s Performance Manager, “Everyone from DSNI is delighted that an athlete from Northern Ireland has been selected to compete in Vancouver, this will be the first time anyone local has made it onto the Winter Paralympic stage and we’re very excited to see Kelly perform. ParalympicsGB is always a very competitive squad so for such a new athlete to break onto the team is already a great achievement” Kelly said, “It’s a dream come true to be representing ParalympicsGB in Vancouver. The last few months have been very intense and I put everything I had into my training so I’m really pleased that all the hard work has paid off. I’ve been training full time in preparation for the Winter Paralympics and I just couldn’t have done this without the financial backing of Sport NI who have been with me every step of the way and the support of SINI who have helped keep me fit and injury free. It’s been a real team effort and I hope I can do them all proud in March.”

Title:  Seb Coe Marks Milestone in Disability Sports NI's Primary School Project Date:   4th February News Details: Through the London 2012 Nations and Regions programme, Sebastian Coe, Chair of the London 2012 Organising Committee, paid a special visit to Dundonald Primary School on Tuesday 2nd February to mark the 40th school in Northern Ireland to participate in Disability Sports NI’s ‘5 Star Disability Sports Challenge’, an innovative education project designed to increase awareness of disability sport and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The educational awareness project, which also on Tuesday marked the 6,000 pupil to be involved, has been running in primary schools throughout Northern Ireland since March 2009. Coe, who led the London's Olympic and Paralympic Games bid to victory, attended the event to see the project presented by Michael McKillop from Newtownabbey who won gold in the 800m in the Beijing Paralympics 2008 whilst breaking his own world record and Aubrey Bingham, a senior player with the Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club. This was followed by the older pupils in the school getting the opportunity to try out a circuit of 5 sports challenges all based on a Paralympic sport. Funded by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and supported by the Department of Education, the 5 Star project aims to contribute to the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by increasing children’s awareness and understanding of disability. The project was the second in Northern Ireland to be granted the prestigious London 2012 Inspire Mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire programme which recognises exceptional and innovative projects inspired by the 2012 Games. Coe also announced Dundonald Primary School as the first in Northern Ireland to join the ‘Get Set network’. He presented pupils with the Get Set network plaque to recognise the school’s involvement in the London 2012 education programme and commitment to the Olympic and Paralympic values. Dundonald Primary was accepted into the network through their impressive work with the 5 Star Disability Sports Challenge project and their exhibition on Seb’s hugely successful career as a four times Olympic medal winner. Angela Hendra, Disability Sports NI Chairperson said: “We are simply delighted with the success so far of the 5 Star Challenge Project and that Lord Coe could be here today at Dundonald Primary School to mark the special occasion of the 40th school to take part, with 6,000 pupils now involved. The project is showcasing disability sport in a very positive way, challenging negative attitudes, and hopefully inspiring both disabled and non disabled children to participate and excel in sport and we are excited to be running this project in many more schools before 2012.” Sebastian Coe said: “I have enjoyed seeing the 5 Star Challenge project in action as it gives young people the opportunity to better understand disability sport and the potential for elite athletes to compete on a world stage in the Paralympics. I congratulate Disability Sports NI on such a successful project which encourages children of all abilities to enjoy sport. Dundonald Primary School is one of 110 schools in Northern Ireland involved in Get Set, the London 2012 education programme. I hope many more schools apply to join the network by telling us how they are using the learning opportunity of the 201 2 Games.” Disability Sports NI will be running the ‘5 Star Disability Sports Challenge’ in primary schools throughout Northern Ireland up to 2012. For more information on the project contact DSNI on 028 9038 7062 or email@dsni.co.uk

Title:  Cycling Ulster Attend Disability Taster Sessions Date:   4th February News Details: For more information follow this link: http://www.cyclingulster.com/?thenewsid=3798&newstable=news

Title:  Belfast Telegraph Sports Awards 2010 Date:   28th January News Details: A great start to the New Year for DAANI, a night filled with pride and joy, a night when we could reflect on the marvellous Northern Ireland sporting achievements for 2009. At local, national and international level, record breaking and world class performances were hailed. And none more so when our own Niall Mc Veigh was shortlisted for Disability Sports Person for 2009 along side: Ivor Jess, Hand Cyclist, Michael McKillop, Athletics Paralympian, Jan Dinsdale, Blind Golfer. As the names were called out for this prestigious award we awaited in silence knowing it was going to be hard to separate these top Athletes, the waiting was over when Niall's name was announced by Managing Director for Disability Needs, John Spottiswoode. Niall was cheered on by his fellow Athletes Emma Farnham, Jason Lamont, Luke Irvine and David Kelly, and also the organising committee for the World Games Elaine Reid, Elaine Lamont, Alison Kelly, Carol Reid, Jeff Lamont and Niall`s Coach Leslie Dewart. DAANI were also shortlisted for the Local Heroes Award, but did not get the overall Award, however we were presented with a Certificate to acknowledge our contribution to disability sports in Northern Ireland. A great night was had by all, where we got the opportunity to meet past and present Sports Stars. Eugene McVeigh, DAANI

Title:  Beechlawn Win Schools Boccia Championships Date:   27th January News Details: Beechlawn School, Hillsborough claimed victory at the recent Special Schools Boccia Championships, organised annually by Disability Sports NI in partnership with Antrim Borough Council. The Championships, which took place on 21st January, were held in Antrim Forum where the Hillsborough School’s team ‘Beechlawn Avatars’ lifted the coveted trophy after some closely fought matches. 28 teams from all around Northern Ireland took part in the one day competition, aimed at encouraging more people with disabilities to participate in active pastimes. After many group matches it finally came down to the last four with two schools from the same campus in Ballymena in the 3rd/4th Play-Off, Dunfane Buffaloes (Dunfane School) and Loughan Bulls (Loughan School). The Loughan team came out on top with the scoreline 3-1 and so claiming 3rd place in the competition. Beechlawn Avatars then clinched victory in an exciting final, proving too powerful for the Longstone Warriors (Longstone School, Dundonald) defeating them 3-0 and coming away with the champions trophy.

Title:  Disabled Angling in Northern Ireland Date:   25th January News Details: The Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure manage the sixty one fisheries in the Public Angling Estate in Northern Ireland. Twenty nine of the waters have some degree of disabled facilities ranging from easy walking through special car parks, to fishing stands and disabled hoists allowing wheelchair users access to boat fishing on Lough Erne. We also offer a number of car parks and disabled parking spaces throughout the Public Angling Estate to make it more accessible. At one of the waters, Middle South Woodburn Reservoir, we offer a car park with access to disabled anglers only. The Department offers concessionary Licences and Permits for £20 per year, which allows the angler to fish all the waters within the Public Angling Estate, the Licence will also allow angling in waters outside of the Estate (but not within the jurisdiction of the Loughs Agency Area). The Permit also enables the angler to fish by different methods at Middle South Woodburn Reservoir, making things a bit easier! These concessionary Licences and Permits are available to those in receipt of one of the following: • Disability Living Allowance, • Attendance Allowance, • War Disablement Pension • Severe Disablement Pension. If you have concerns about the suitability of the facilities, please contact the Department for more information on (028) 90515119 or visit our website at www.dcal-fishingni.gov.uk

Title:  Coaching & Education Manager Job Vacancy at Scottish Disability Sport Date:   18th January News Details: Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) Coaching & Education Manager Salary Scale : £28,000 – £30,000 subject to experience SDS, in partnership with sportscotland, is seeking to appoint a Coaching & Education Manager to provide leadership and support to key partner agencies and individuals and ensure an inclusive approach to coaching across Scotland. The post holder will lead all coach education and development programmes for Scottish Disability Sport and ensure the effective integration of national priorities linked to Coaching Scotland. The post holder will also lead the planning, delivery and evaluation of an annual coaching plan for Scottish Disability Sport and produce a workforce development plan to inform the strategic development of coach education. The post holder will influence the establishment and development of the UK Coaching Certificate, working with key partners across the UK. The successful candidate will be required to demonstrate an understanding of Coaching Scotland, the UK Coaching Framework and Long Term Player Development principles. The successful candidate will also possess proven leadership, teamwork and decision making skills along with demonstrable interpersonal, communication, motivational, organisational and planning skills. The post will be based at the SDS Head Office at Caledonia House in Edinburgh and is initially offered on a three year fixed term basis with expectation of extension. For a full job description, candidate specification and application form, visit the SDS website: www.scottishdisabilitysport.com. OR, contact Gavin Macleod, Chief Executive Officer, Scottish Disability Sport, Caledonia House, South Gyle, Edinburgh, EH12 9DQ. Tel: 0131 317 1130 Fax: 0131 317 1075 E-mail: gavin.macleod@scottishdisabilitysport.com Closing date: 12 noon on Friday 5th February 2010. Interviews: Thursday 18th February 2010.

Title:  Tandem Pilots Required Date:   15th December News Details: Cycling Ulster are looking for people who would be willing to train as tandem pilots for partially sighted riders. We are seeking both those who would be willing to provide help for those who prefer leisure cycling and those who are more competitive and require local training partners. There are many partially sighted people who would love the opportunity to take part in a cycle event but they require willing partners. If anyone is interested please contact Marian Lamb at marianlamb@cyclingulster.com or Tel: 028 94 453203 or Mobile: 07920132135 There is also an opportunity for competitive riders to become involved in the 2012 Paralympic Games. Cycling Ireland’s Paralympic Team would like to invite anyone (male or female) who may wish to be developed as a tandem pilot for partially sighted cyclists for the Paralympic Games in London 2012. The key criteria we are initially looking for are: 1. Enthusiasm for cycling and willingness to learn 2. Willing to commit to a 2.5 year Paralympic programme through to August 2012 3. Potential of a good power output/speed/athletic ability (i.e. trainability) 4. Time to commit to training on a tandem an agreed number of times per week/month 5. Availability to travel worldwide to World Cup (road and track) 6. Ambitious but willing to stay on a given programme within para-cycling We will offer: 1. Full tandem training 2. Track training (to ride a tandem on a velodrome) – these will be in the UK or mainland Europe 3. Access to training and competition tandems (road and track) 4. Road training 5. Full coaching/training programme 6. Athlete support services (physio, nutrition, psychology, life style, sports science screening, etc…) 7. An International competition programme 2010 Paralympic Games 2012 8. Remuneration through 2010 (this would have to be attained for 2011 and 2012 through continually reaching targets (medals & placings) 9. Full support team at events and training camps 10. An excellent team spirit and professional experience Closing date 20th January 2010 Please confirm your interest by contacting Phil Leigh via the contact details below. Phil Leigh, High Performance Director, Cycling Ireland, Kelly Roche House, 619 North Circular Road, Dublin 1, Ireland Mobile: 086 8333818 Phone: 01 8551640 Email: phil@cyclingireland.ie Web: www.cyclingireland.ie

Title:  New Wheels for Disability Sports NI Date:   14th December News Details: Ulster Bank Staff have come to the aid of Disability Sports NI by funding a van to be used to transport specialist sports equipment to venues throughout Northern Ireland to enable people with physical, sensory and learning disabilities to lead an active life through sport. The van will be fully equipped with a full range of games and sports equipment and used by Disability Sports NI to not only help deliver participation events throughout Northern Ireland in a more efficient way but also to enhance the quality and impact of Disability Sports NI Training Courses. The van will allow them to transport sports wheelchairs and other specialist equipment for practical use throughout the sessions. The courses ran for coaches, sports leaders and leisure centre staff on how to better include people with disabilities in sports and physical activity programmes, take place throughout Northern Ireland.

Title:  Knights Come Out On Top Date:   14th December News Details: Antrim’s Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club played another home fixture this weekend in a clash with London based Super League rivals, Raiders. This was the first time the clubs crossed paths in a number of years and with the Raiders having an obvious height advantage, Knights put their speed on the floor and pressed to cause havoc, taking them to a comfortable lead of 32-17 at the half. The home kept the pressure on through the 3rd extending their lead to 30 points before relaxing the press and seeing the game through to its finish, final score 61-35. Lead scorers for the Knights were, Matthew Rollston, 18pts, Jason Kennedy, 16pts. Coach Kennedy commented, “Another win is always a good thing, great team performance, but we‘ve still got more to give”. Knights next super league match is in the Antrim Forum, 9th Jan 10, 2.30pm tip-off.

Title:  Cycling Pilots Wanted Date:   1st December News Details: Cycling Ulster is on the look out for pilots to help out with their partially sighted tandem cyclists. Pilots at all levels of the sport are required, including high performance. Potential pilots should have a knowledge of cycling and be willing to complete some basic training. If you are interested in getting involved in the sport as a pilot please contact Marian Lamb by phone on 028 94 453203 /07920132135 or email marianlamb@cyclingulster.com

Title:  Work out at the Waterfront Aerobics 2.12.09 Date:   1st December News Details: Aerobics session open to anyone with a disability - Wednesday 2nd December 2009, Waterfront Hall, Belfast 11am - 1pm. Between 140 - 200 participants from a range of Special schools, Adult Centres and Resource Centres attend this participation which is held to encourage people with disabilities to be more active and lead healthy lifestyles. 11am Registration 12noon Aerbics Session 1pm Finish Places still available, contact DSNI 9038 7062 abingham@dsni.co.uk

Title:  James Hamilton and Nicole Turner Trophy Winners at DSNI Swimming Championships Date:   30th November News Details: Almost 160 competitors, the largest number yet, took part in the Disability Sports NI Swimming Championships on Saturday 28th November at Lagan Valley Leisureplex, Lisburn. The Championships, which is in its 11th year is the only pan disability gala to be held in Northern Ireland. Following a day of excellent competition, with over 60 events and a number of medal presentations James Hamilton from Larne emerged as the Best Performance Swimmer and Nicole Turner as Best 25m Swimmer. James and Nicole were presented with their trophies by Disability Sports NI President and four times World Disabled Waterskier Janet Gray. The event was organised by Disability Sports NI and supported by Nationwide, with volunteers helping out from Lisburn City Swimming Club, Swim Ulster Ltd and Stranmillis College.

Title:  DSNI Swimming Championships 09 Date:   30th November News Details: Event 1 Women 25 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hegarty, Soracha 24 ROSC 39.69 3 Turner, Nicole 7 Unattached 44.12 4 Carville, Lauren 9 NS 46.03 Event 2 Men 25 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Murphy, Ronan 11 SHARK 58.03 2 Doherty, Louis 17 ROSC 1:01.02 3 Carr, Bernie 38 ROSC 1:04.00 4 Valllelly, Sean 19 BAL 2:01.71 Event 3 Women 25 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Parke, Catherine 23 BAL 23.87 2 Ross, Emma 22 S&D 26.78 3 Browne, Jennifer 14 Erne 27.65 4 McClorey, Nicole 15 NS 27.66 5 McKenna, Aoife 17 BAL 27.69 6 Warke, Megan 16 BAL 28.97 7 Carlisle, Emma 15 BAL 30.04 8 Aiken, Rachel 16 S&D 31.06 9 Smyth, Carla 13 Erne 31.84 10 Traynor, Agnes 17 Erne 33.40 11 McGee, Katrina 15 NS 34.34 12 McAllister, Rebecca 9 SHARK 35.81 13 Nolan, Kate 14 Erne 36.96 14 Devlin, Rebecca 14 NS 44.60 15 Hillock, Emma 16 SHARK 44.68 16 Swift, Denise 13 Erne 45.18 17 O'Hara, Sinead 14 Erne 46.56 18 McNicholl, Shannon 12 SHARK 48.40 Event 4 Men 25 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 McDowell, Aaron 15 S&D 24.40 2 Neagle, Thomas 14 Armagh Ssc 24.71 3 Caldwell, Nathan 17 S&D 27.53 4 Doherty, Lee 16 Erne 28.91 5 Scott, Dale 15 S&D 30.06 6 Clarke, Gavin 12 CEDAR 31.87 6 McNicholl, Paul 14 BAL 31.87 8 Field, Paul Michael 16 Unattached 32.53 9 Campbell, Sean 25 S&D 33.25 10 McClorey, Connor 13 NS 33.29 11 Campbell, Jonathan 14 BAL 33.43 12 Breen, Ciaran 26 Armagh Ssc 36.24 13 Mooney, Patrick 12 CEDAR 39.81 14 McMeekin, Samuel 11 BAL 40.07 15 Evans, Jonathan 13 NS 42.18 16 Gregory, Fergal 11 NS 51.90 17 Martin, Daniel 12 Erne 53.71 18 Prenter, Chris 17 NEMO 57.06 19 Christie, Benjamin 11 BAL 1:28.56 Event 7 Women 200 SC Meter IM Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Gordon, Gemma 25 Armagh Ssc 4:28.68 Event 8 Men 200 SC Meter IM Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Bell, Matthew 19 Unattached 2:36.70 2 Hamilton, James 17 Unattached 2:57.74 3 Connelly, Peader 23 NS 4:00.90 Event 9 Women 50 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hall, Charlotte 15 Unattached 40.62 2 MACSORLEY, Eimear 15 Unattached 1:37.47 Event 10 Men 50 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Browne, Gareth 20 S&D 40.61 2 Johnston, Adam 11 Unattached 1:51.22 Event 12 Men 50 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hamilton, James 17 Unattached 38.77 2 Morris, Conor 16 Erne 47.23 3 Neagle, Thomas 14 Armagh Ssc 53.93 4 Moore, Dale 14 Armagh Ssc 56.53 5 Grant, Lewis 15 Unattached 56.58 6 Gordon, Barry 28 Armagh Ssc 57.03 7 Neill, Nathan 17 ARV 1:02.91 8 Rafferty, Conor BAL 1:04.08 -- Corrigan, Martin 16 ARV DQ Alternating Kick -- Murray, Kevin 28 Armagh Ssc DQ Arms two strokes underwater -- O'Neill, Joe 17 ARV DQ Scissors kick Event 13 Women 100 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Steele, Namphon 11 Unattached 1:29.16 2 Gillies, Kellie 21 BASC 1:58.44 3 MACSORLEY, Eimear 15 Unattached 3:13.59 Event 14 Men 100 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Browne, Gareth 20 S&D 1:15.73 2 Owen, Dean 40 Unattached 1:24.49 3 Archibald, Ryan 21 S&D 1:25.48 4 MACSORLEY, James 14 Unattached 1:37.67 5 McVeigh, Niall 19 Unattached 2:35.80 6 Cosgrove, Sean Patrick 8 Unattached 2:47.21 Event 15 Women 100 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Firth, Bethany 13 ARDS 1:12.95 2 Meldrum, Ellen 17 S&D 1:19.46 3 McKenna, Aoife 17 BAL 1:41.21 4 Hawe, Danielle 22 Armagh Ssc 1:53.92 5 Ferguson, Gillian 33 DOL 3:14.02 Event 16 Men 100 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Bell, Matthew 19 Unattached 1:01.79 2 Hamilton, James 17 Unattached 1:06.94 3 Connelly, Peader 23 NS 1:29.45 4 Gordon, Barry 28 Armagh Ssc 1:34.29 5 Martin, Adam 21 BAL 1:45.65 6 Lindsay, Andrew 32 DOL 2:29.95 7 Byrne, Michael 25 DOL 2:44.05 8 Skelly, David 29 DOL 2:47.53 9 Welsh, Andrew 32 DOL 3:27.65 Event 17 Women 50 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Kenny, Claire 14 Unattached 1:14.46 Event 18 Men 50 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 MACSORLEY, James 14 Unattached 59.30 2 Johnston, Adam 11 Unattached 1:36.85 3 Gourley, Ross 8 Unattached 1:40.75 4 Cosgrove, Sean Patrick 8 Unattached 1:46.07 Event 19 Women 50 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hawe, Danielle 22 Armagh Ssc 53.79 2 Ross, Emma 22 S&D 1:01.59 3 McClorey, Nicole 15 NS 1:09.64 4 Aiken, Rachel 16 S&D 1:11.39 5 Traynor, Agnes 17 Erne 1:15.03 6 Ferguson, Gillian 33 DOL 1:32.13 -- Meldrum, Ellen 17 S&D DQ Did not finish on back Event 20 Men 50 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Morris, Conor 16 Erne 45.02 2 Gordon, Francis 23 Armagh Ssc 48.93 3 McDowell, Aaron 15 S&D 53.41 4 McNulty, Justin 15 SHARK 54.99 5 Murray, Kevin 28 Armagh Ssc 57.63 6 Martin, Adam 21 BAL 57.67 7 Caldwell, Nathan 17 S&D 59.99 8 Field, Paul Michael 16 Unattached 1:03.27 9 Moore, Dale 14 Armagh Ssc 1:03.98 10 McViegh, Luke 16 SHARK 1:04.87 11 Doherty, Lee 16 Erne 1:06.50 12 Scott, Dale 15 S&D 1:06.73 13 Campbell, Sean 25 S&D 1:10.31 14 Skelly, David 29 DOL 1:13.12 15 McClorey, Connor 13 NS 1:16.90 16 Davidson, Matthew 14 SHARK 1:25.32 17 McKeown, Sean 14 SHARK 1:27.34 18 Wharry, David 16 SHARK 1:31.16 -- Welsh, Andrew 32 DOL DQ Did not finish on back -- Kane, Luke 13 SHARK DQ Pulling on lane line -- Lindsay, Andrew 32 DOL DQ Did not finish on back Event 21 Women 50 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Steele, Namphon 11 Unattached 38.61 2 Gillies, Kellie 21 BASC 1:07.49 Event 23 Women 50 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Firth, Bethany 13 ARDS 36.86 2 Meldrum, Ellen 17 S&D 41.10 3 Gordon, Gemma 25 Armagh Ssc 1:04.26 Event 24 Men 50 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Cahill, Manus 23 NS 53.95 -- Connelly, Peader 23 NS DQ No touch Event 25 Women 25 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hegarty, Aoife 26 ROSC 24.79 2 Brennan, Ann 40 ROSC 28.15 3 Turner, Nicole 7 Unattached 30.62 4 McIlhagger, Li-sah 13 BAL 36.84 5 Hegarty, Soracha 24 ROSC 40.03 6 Smith, Edel 7 NS 48.44 7 Walker, Katie 8 Unattached 52.50 Event 26 Men 25 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Archibald, Ryan 21 S&D 17.47 2 O'Mahony, Daniel James 13 Unattached 22.06 3 Gleeson, Jude 21 ROSC 31.79 4 Nagle, Conn 8 ALL 33.75 4 Cosgrove, Sean Patrick 8 Unattached 33.75 6 Lamont, Jason 19 Unattached 36.13 7 Doherty, Louis 17 ROSC 49.60 8 Murphy, Ronan 11 SHARK 53.82 9 Carr, Bernie 38 ROSC 1:02.12 10 Valllelly, Sean 19 BAL 2:00.90 Event 27 Women 25 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 McKenna, Aoife 17 BAL 18.25 2 Patrick, Charlene 18 ARV 21.34 3 McClorey, Nicole 15 NS 21.96 4 Parke, Catherine 23 BAL 22.09 5 Browne, Jennifer 14 Erne 22.80 6 Ross, Emma 22 S&D 25.31 7 McGee, Katrina 15 NS 25.68 8 Aiken, Rachel 16 S&D 25.78 9 McNicholl, Shannon 12 SHARK 26.38 10 Warke, Megan 16 BAL 26.63 11 Priestley, Carla 16 ARV 26.66 12 Carlisle, Emma 15 BAL 27.78 12 Devlin, Rebecca 14 NS 27.78 14 Leonard, Sarah 14 Erne 28.18 15 Traynor, Agnes 17 Erne 29.28 16 Surgenor, Laura 14 CEDAR 30.03 17 Hillock, Emma 16 SHARK 32.18 18 O'Hara, Sinead 14 Erne 32.56 19 Sturgeon, Caileen 25 DOL 33.31 20 Nolan, Kate 14 Erne 33.41 21 McAllister, Rebecca 9 SHARK 34.97 22 Ferguson, Gillian 33 DOL 36.50 23 Swift, Denise 13 Erne 40.46 24 Gurnley, Aislinn 20 NEMO 53.78 25 McCollum, Laura BAL 55.97 Event 28 Men 25 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 O'Neill, Joe 17 ARV 16.90 2 Neagle, Thomas 14 Armagh Ssc 18.65 3 Campbell, Jonathan 14 BAL 19.18 4 Neill, Nathan 17 ARV 19.46 5 Caldwell, Nathan 17 S&D 20.06 6 Moore, Dale 14 Armagh Ssc 20.07 7 Scott, Dale 15 S&D 20.85 8 Diamond, Max 16 CEDAR 20.96 9 McClorey, Connor 13 NS 21.21 10 McDowell, Aaron 15 S&D 21.46 11 McViegh, Luke 16 SHARK 21.54 12 Doherty, Lee 16 Erne 21.69 13 Campbell, Sean 25 S&D 22.50 14 Stewart, Charlie 12 CEDAR 22.62 15 Conway, Sean 13 ARV 22.78 16 McNicholl, Paul 14 BAL 23.78 17 Somers, Robbie 12 CEDAR 24.40 18 Corrigan, Martin 16 ARV 24.85 19 Doherty, Daniel 14 Unattached 24.96 20 Clarke, Gavin 12 CEDAR 25.00 21 Cahill, Manus 23 NS 25.44 22 Welsh, Andrew 32 DOL 26.31 22 Wharry, David 16 SHARK 26.31 24 Skelly, David 29 DOL 26.78 25 Field, Paul Michael 16 Unattached 27.12 26 Lindsay, Andrew 32 DOL 27.85 27 Byrne, Michael 25 DOL 29.28 28 McCaffrey, Mark Joseph 15 Erne 29.68 28 Gregory, Fergal 11 NS 29.68 30 Prenter, Chris 17 NEMO 30.03 31 Mooney, Patrick 12 CEDAR 30.18 32 Rafferty, Conor BAL 30.34 33 McNicholl, Jesse 17 S&D 30.46 34 Cunning, Kevin 23 S&D 30.81 35 Stewart, Darren 24 S&D 30.84 36 Wearan, Turnan 8 Unattached 31.41 37 Kane, Luke 13 SHARK 31.71 38 Magee, Oliver 15 DOL 32.25 39 Kilpatrick, Jason 13 ARV 32.72 40 Evans, Jonathan 13 NS 33.69 41 Marron, James 8 NS 35.03 42 O'Neill, Connor 16 S&D 37.03 43 Breen, Ciaran 26 Armagh Ssc 37.78 44 Diak, Gareth 29 DOL 37.99 45 Murray, Matthew 19 NEMO 38.71 46 Patton, Jonathan 12 ARV 39.62 47 Christie, Benjamin 11 BAL 39.96 48 McGuigan, Stephen 25 BAL 40.81 49 McMeekin, Samuel 11 BAL 41.62 50 Hughes, Cathal 10 NS 43.00 51 Martin, Daniel 12 Erne 1:03.20 52 Cardwell, Tim 9 SHARK 1:04.10 53 Clugston, Sean 27 SHARK 1:09.96 54 Picket, Owen 14 SHARK 1:16.93 Event 30 Men 400 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Owen, Dean 40 Unattached 6:12.51 Event 31 Women 400 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Gordon, Gemma 25 Armagh Ssc 7:48.65 Event 32 Men 400 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Gordon, Francis 23 Armagh Ssc 8:11.36 Event 33 Women 100 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hall, Charlotte 15 Unattached 1:28.63 2 Kenny, Claire 14 Unattached 2:50.09 Event 34 Men 100 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Browne, Gareth 20 S&D 1:31.30 Event 35 Women 100 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Firth, Bethany 13 ARDS 1:34.93 2 Gordon, Gemma 25 Armagh Ssc 2:21.99 Event 36 Men 100 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hamilton, James 17 Unattached 1:23.28 2 Morris, Conor 16 Erne 1:45.68 3 Connelly, Peader 23 NS 2:00.24 4 Gordon, Barry 28 Armagh Ssc 2:04.60 Event 37 Women 200 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Gillies, Kellie 21 BASC 4:26.99 Event 38 Men 200 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Owen, Dean 40 Unattached 3:01.97 Event 39 Women 200 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Hawe, Danielle 22 Armagh Ssc 4:10.52 Event 40 Men 200 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Bell, Matthew 19 Unattached 2:14.75 2 Gordon, Francis 23 Armagh Ssc 3:47.46 3 Gordon, Barry 28 Armagh Ssc 4:00.85 Event 41 Women 25 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Turner, Nicole 7 Unattached 38.89 2 Walker, Katie 8 Unattached 53.21 Event 43 Women 25 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 O'Hara, Sinead 14 Erne 31.59 2 Smyth, Carla 13 Erne 32.56 3 Browne, Jennifer 14 Erne 32.79 4 Nolan, Kate 14 Erne 34.90 5 Traynor, Agnes 17 Erne 35.21 6 Gurnley, Aislinn 20 NEMO 48.09 7 Swift, Denise 13 Erne 49.31 Event 44 Men 25 SC Meter Breaststroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 O'Neill, Joe 17 ARV 23.34 2 Neagle, Thomas 14 Armagh Ssc 23.44 3 McViegh, Luke 16 SHARK 23.59 4 Neill, Nathan 17 ARV 27.25 5 Rafferty, Conor BAL 27.53 6 McCaffrey, Mark Joseph 15 Erne 31.75 7 Breen, Ciaran 26 Armagh Ssc 36.20 8 Corrigan, Martin 16 ARV 41.10 9 Cardwell, Tim 9 SHARK 56.65 10 Picket, Owen 14 SHARK 1:42.90 Event 45 Women 100 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Gillies, Kellie 21 BASC 2:18.39 Event 47 Women 100 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Firth, Bethany 13 ARDS 1:21.40 2 Hawe, Danielle 22 Armagh Ssc 2:36.22 Event 48 Men 100 SC Meter Backstroke Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Gordon, Francis 23 Armagh Ssc 2:00.24 2 Martin, Adam 21 BAL 2:06.36 Event 49 Women 50 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Steele, Namphon 11 Unattached 35.94 2 Kenny, Claire 14 Unattached 54.59 3 Hegarty, Aoife 26 ROSC 1:03.93 4 Brennan, Ann 40 ROSC 1:12.35 5 MACSORLEY, Eimear 15 Unattached 1:33.68 6 McIlhagger, Li-sah 13 BAL 1:42.91 Event 50 Men 50 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Browne, Gareth 20 S&D 33.47 2 Archibald, Ryan 21 S&D 39.90 3 O'Mahony, Daniel James 13 Unattached 44.89 3 MACSORLEY, James 14 Unattached 44.89 5 Cosgrove, Sean Patrick 8 Unattached 1:20.26 6 Johnston, Adam 11 Unattached 1:20.27 7 Gourley, Ross 8 Unattached 2:17.78 Event 51 Women 50 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 McKenna, Aoife 17 BAL 45.01 2 Parke, Catherine 23 BAL 49.02 3 McClorey, Nicole 15 NS 50.12 4 Browne, Jennifer 14 Erne 59.41 5 Aiken, Rachel 16 S&D 59.80 6 Ross, Emma 22 S&D 1:00.22 7 McGee, Katrina 15 NS 1:01.88 8 Carlisle, Emma 15 BAL 1:05.24 9 Warke, Megan 16 BAL 1:07.22 10 O'Hara, Sinead 14 Erne 1:14.42 11 Smyth, Carla 13 Erne 1:18.61 12 Devlin, Rebecca 14 NS 1:22.18 13 Nolan, Kate 14 Erne 1:27.00 14 Sturgeon, Caileen 25 DOL 1:27.30 15 Ferguson, Gillian 33 DOL 1:28.34 16 Swift, Denise 13 Erne 1:47.29 Event 52 Men 50 SC Meter Freestyle Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Grant, Lewis 15 Unattached 36.21 2 Morris, Conor 16 Erne 36.43 3 O'Neill, Joe 17 ARV 37.19 4 Moore, Dale 14 Armagh Ssc 44.08 5 Neill, Nathan 17 ARV 44.30 6 Campbell, Jonathan 14 BAL 44.55 7 Conway, Sean 13 ARV 46.26 8 Scott, Dale 15 S&D 46.95 9 Diamond, Max 16 CEDAR 47.88 10 Murray, Kevin 28 Armagh Ssc 47.97 11 McDowell, Aaron 15 S&D 48.62 12 McNulty, Justin 15 SHARK 48.83 13 Campbell, Sean 25 S&D 49.13 14 Martin, Adam 21 BAL 49.14 15 Caldwell, Nathan 17 S&D 49.19 16 McClorey, Connor 13 NS 50.66 17 Doherty, Lee 16 Erne 51.03 18 Cunning, Kevin 23 S&D 51.89 19 McViegh, Luke 16 SHARK 53.23 20 Doherty, Daniel 14 Unattached 57.37 21 Lindsay, Andrew 32 DOL 57.81 22 Corrigan, Martin 16 ARV 59.95 23 Field, Paul Michael 16 Unattached 1:01.50 24 McNicholl, Paul 14 BAL 1:02.00 25 Gregory, Fergal 11 NS 1:06.45 26 McKeown, Sean 14 SHARK 1:06.83 27 Skelly, David 29 DOL 1:07.72 28 Prenter, Chris 17 NEMO 1:11.75 29 Rafferty, Conor BAL 1:11.85 30 Byrne, Michael 25 DOL 1:12.72 31 Breen, Ciaran 26 Armagh Ssc 1:14.02 32 McCaffrey, Mark Joseph 15 Erne 1:14.65 33 Evans, Jonathan 13 NS 1:16.73 34 Davidson, Matthew 14 SHARK 1:16.92 35 Welsh, Andrew 32 DOL 1:18.42 36 McNicholl, Jesse 17 S&D 1:25.00 37 McGuigan, Stephen 25 BAL 1:33.64 38 Stewart, Darren 24 S&D 1:35.89 39 McMeekin, Samuel 11 BAL 1:39.30 40 Murray, Matthew 19 NEMO 1:41.95 Event 56 Men 100 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Bell, Matthew 19 Unattached 1:10.77 2 Cahill, Manus 23 NS 2:13.76 Event 57 Women 25 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Turner, Nicole 7 Unattached 41.53 Event 58 Men 25 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S1-S13 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Johnston, Adam 11 Unattached 43.87 2 Nagle, Conn 8 ALL 1:02.15 Event 60 Men 25 SC Meter Butterfly Multi-Disability S14-15 =============================================================================== Name Age Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Murray, Kevin 28 Armagh Ssc 23.78 2 Cahill, Manus 23 NS 30.35 3 Byrne, Michael 25 DOL 44.87 Event 61 Mixed 100 SC Meter Freestyle Relay Multi-Disability =============================================================================== Team Finals =============================================================================== 1 Splash & Dash 'B' 1:17.87 2 Armagh Special Swimming Club 'A' 1:20.57 3 Splash & Dash 'C' 1:26.75 4 Ballymoney Special Olympics 'A' 1:29.34 5 Sharks Swimming Club 'A' 1:29.46 6 Arvalee School 'A' 1:29.84 7 Newry Sportability 'A' 1:31.59 8 Erne Special School 'A' 1:35.10 9 Armagh Special Swimming Club 'B' 1:43.96 10 Ballymoney Special Olympics 'B' 1:50.28 11 Dolphins Swimming Club 'B' 1:52.78 12 Newry Sportability 'B' 2:13.34 13 Sharks Swimming Club 'B' 2:15.25 14 Dolphins Swimming Club 'A' 2:17.60 15 Splash & Dash 'D' 2:18.43 16 Erne Special School 'B' 2:24.00 17 Nemo Special Olympic Swim Team 'A' 2:26.13 18 Sharks Swimming Club 'C' 2:56.53

Title:  Vote Victors Triumph in New Age Kurling Championships Date:   25th November News Details: 21 teams from around Northern Ireland battled it out in the New Age Kurling Senior Championships held in Antrim Forum on 19th November. After some close matches the following teams came away with the coveted medals and trophy. RESULTS: 1st Vote Victors, Portadown 2nd Station Road Reds, Armagh 3rd Gifted, Craigavon Thanks once again to the students from Northern Regional College Sports Studies class (Antrim Campus) who again assisted on the day.

Title:  'Workout at the Waterfront' Date:   24th November News Details: Disability Sports NI will hold their annual ‘Work out at the Waterfront’ Aerobathon on Wednesday 2nd December with the Lord Mayor of Belfast Naomi Long in attendance. The Aerobathon, a highlight every year in DSNI's events calendar, will take place in the Waterfront Bar 2 area involving 120 – 180 participants from a range of special schools/adult/resource centres. The Aerobathon is a 45 minute session taken by Aerobics instructor Jane Stewart aimed at getting people with disabilities active.

Title:  IPC Votes Yes to the Inclusion of Athletes with a Learning Disability in London 2012 Date:   23rd November News Details: Athletes with a learning disability from around the world will be celebrating the ‘Yes’ decision made at the International Paralympic Committee General Assembly held in Kuala Lumpur at the weekend. The decision will allow athletes with a learning disability to compete in London 2012 Paralympics and other IPC events after a lengthy 9 year ban which was imposed after the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games. Athletes will have to complete a two stage classification process in order to be eligible. The first stage of classification will include the submission of medical files to the INAS-FID International Eligibility Committee, once approved the athlete will then proceed onto on-site testing which will focus on ‘sports intelligence’ and will include tests relevant to the athletes particular sport. With the Paralympic door now open, athletes with a learning disability will be given the opportunity to reach the pinnacle of disability sport and gain the recognition they deserve as elite sportsmen and women.

Title:  Dance Development Day Date:   16th November News Details: CANDOCO DANCE COMPANY will facilitate a DANCE DEVELOPMENT DAY for people with disabilities in Belfast in collaboration with Open Arts on 30th November 2009 (10am-4.30pm). Registration forms available now at www.openarts.net Luminous Soul is part of a series of events led by Open Arts for the Legacy Trust UK “Connections” programme, funded by Legacy Trust UK, an independent charity set up to help build a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. “Connections” is managed by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO DANCE? Open Arts would like to help you develop your dancing skills with LUMINOUS SOUL, a new dance and movement initiative that will run over the next 3 years training people with disabilities in dance. We are running Dance Development Days in 5 areas of Northern Ireland over the next year and are currently looking for people to join up for the first Dance Development Day in Belfast. On Monday 30th November (10am – 4.30pm), 2 dance facilitators from Candoco Dance Company in London will work with 20 disabled people at the Youth Action building in Belfast. This is a unique opportunity to work with inspiring facilitators in a safe and secure environment. Candoco Dance Company ‘push boundaries of contemporary dance beyond usual expectations and broaden people's perception of what dance is and who can dance’. Candoco.co.uk WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO? The registration form is available on our website, www.openarts.net. Please fill out and return to unaopenarts@aol.com or post to: Una McCann, Open Arts, Crescent Arts Centre,165 Ormeau Rd, Belfast, BT7 1SQ. The phone number for Open Arts is 02890 312515 if you have any questions. ARE YOU A DANCE TEACHER? We would like to offer an opportunity to shadow experienced disabled tutors from the UK and Ireland during the Dance Development Days detailed above. If you are interested please contact Una at unaopenarts@aol.com or at the above address or phone number. Luminous Soul is a Legacy Trust UK funded Project. www.legacytrustuk.org

Title:  Fit 4 U Project Date:   13th November News Details: The Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT) Fit 4 U Project, in partnership with local leisure providers has been working on developing physical activity and leisure opportunities for people with physical and/or sensory disabilities. The Fit 4 U Project works across the SHSCT area and seeks to empower adults with physical and/or sensory disabilities to improve health through participation in physical activity. Boccia Event – Town Hall, Bessbrook, Newry Date: Wednesday 25th November 2009 Time: 1.30 pm – 3.00 pm Venue: Town Hall, Bessbrook, Newry Cost: £2.00 per person Boccia Event – Dungannon Leisure Centre Date: Thursday 26th November 2009 Time: 1.30 pm – 3.00 pm Venue: Main Hall, Dungannon Leisure Centre Cost: £2.00 per person Boccia Event – Banbridge Leisure Centre Date: Monday 30th November 2009 Time: 11.00 am - 12.30 pm Venue: Banbridge Leisure Centre, Main Hall Cost: £2.00 per person If you are interested in participating in any of the above activities, please contact Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project Worker, Tel: 028 3752 0602 or email rhonda.richardson@southerntrust.hscni.net for further information.

Title:  Northern Ireland Special Festival of Pool 2009 Date:   9th November News Details: The 2009 Northern Ireland Special Festival of Pool commences on Monday 16th November in the Lodge Hotel, Coleraine with play continuing through to Thursday 19th November. Now in its 17th year, the Festival which is once again supported by Coleraine Borough Council, affords the opportunity for people with learning difficulties, mental health problems and physical disabilities to compete both for National and International titles. With entries reaching a new height, the 2009 Festival is sure to be the highlight of the year for Pool players from the Special Schools and Day Centres of Northern Ireland. MONDAY 16th NOVEMBER 11.00am OFFICIAL INTRODUCTIONS 11.30am JUNIOR LEARNING DIFFICULTIES TEAM EVENTS, JUNIOR LEARNING DIFFICULTIES INDIVIDUALS 2.30pm ALL ABILITIES INDIVIDUALS TUESDAY 17th NOVEMBER 11.00am OFFICIAL OPENING CEREMONY 11.30am LEARNING DIFFICULTIES SENIOR TEAM EVENTS, LEARNING DIFFICULTIES LADIES TEAM EVENT, LEARNING DIFFICULTIES SOCIAL TEAM EVENT 7.00pm N.IRELAND INDIVIDUAL SPEED POOL RACES 8.00pm DOUBLES COMPETITION FEATURING THE N.IRELAND LADIES SENIOR INTERNATIONAL TEAM 9.30pm DISCO WEDNESDAY 18th NOVEMBER 11.00am LEARNING DIFFICULTIES SENIOR INDIVIDUALS, LEARNING DIFFICULTIES LADIES INDIVIDUALS, LEARNING DIFFICULTIES SOCIAL INDIVIDUALS 7.30pm INTERNATIONAL INDIVIDUALS 9.00pm DISCO THURSDAY 19th NOVEMBER 11.00am CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM & PLATE FINALS 11.45am CHAMPIONSHIPS INDIVIDUALS & PLATE FINALS 1.30pm TEAM SPEED POOL 3.00pm PRESENTATION CEREMONY For more information contact Event Organiser Trevor Harte Tel: 028 7035 6309 Mobile: 07814432753

Title:  Silver Medal for Under 15's Date:   2nd November News Details: The Northern Ireland Under 15 Wheelchair Basketball Team have just returned from the UK Regional Junior Wheelchair Basketball Championships at Stoke Mandeville, Aylesbury securing a fantastic silver medal. The played 7 matches in total and won 6 of them just losing out in the final to East by 4pts. The competition is a regional event, so teams from all over Scotland, Eng, Wales & NI compete. The regional teams have the best players selected from several club teams in their area, whereas the NI team is made up of players from just 1 club, the Knights. Well done to the squad: James, Connor, Simone, Padraic, Jack, Cameron, Jason, Eoin, Conn, Luke & Dane - Coaches Steven & Debee

Title:  NI Schools New Age Kurling Championship Results Date:   30th October News Details: NI Schools New Age Kurling Championship 2009 took place at the Antrim Forum on Thursday 22nd Oct, with 28 teams from a range of Special Schools competing for the silverware. After some nailbiting matches, the following teams claimed the trophies and medals. PRIMARY SECTION: 1st Killard Hippos 2nd Ceara Rockets 3rd Team Galaxy SECONDARY SECTION: 1st Rathore’s Krazy Kurlers 2nd Roddensvale Rockers 3rd R Gang Well done to all the participants for a great day of competition played in an excellent spirit. We would like to extend our thanks to the students from Northern Regional College Sports Studies class who assisted with the running of the tournament.

Title:  6 New IFA Disability Football Clubs Date:   30th October News Details: The Irish Football Association, with the support of a Lottery Grant through Awards for All, are setting up 6 County based Football Clubs for those with a learning and/or physical disability. The Coaches in each club will be IFA/UEFA qualified and will have experience in working with those with a disability. The Clubs will run on a weekly basis and will have Junior sections for 7 – 14 yr olds and Senior sections for those aged 15 and over. The first club to get established was the one in Bangor, County Down at The Bangor Castle Leisure Centre and it is proving to be successful with over 30 registered members. Club Coach, Charlene Rainey, has witnessed the benefits of the clubs first hand, ‘the clubs give a regular, structured opportunity for those who would find it difficult to play and compete in mainstream football. Everyone is enjoying themselves and there is a real emphasis on fun but the sessions are structured the same as mainstream and when it comes to the games they are just as competitive’. Alan Crooks, The Development Manager for Disability Football at the Irish Football Association has urged those interested to get in touch and get involved, ‘we are delighted to have received the support of Awards for All for this project. We have also gained the support of local councils and Disability Sports NI so I am hopeful that the clubs will go from strength to strength. If anyone is interested in joining any of the clubs, please contact me on 90669458 or by email acrooks@irishfa.com for a registration form'. BANGOR CASTLE DFC Venue: Bangor Castle Leisure Centre - indoor Start Date: Started Day: Wednesdays Junior Club: 5pm - 6pm Senior Club: 6pm - 7pm COLERAINE DFC Venue: Ballysally Community Centre - indoor Start Date: 31/10/09 Day: Saturdays Junior Club: 11am - 12pm Senior Club: 12pm - 1pm ENNISKILLEN DFC Venue: Lakeland Forum - indoor Start Date: 06/11/09 Day: Fridays Junior Club: 10am - 11am Senior Club: 11am - 12pm LURGAN TOWN BOYS DFC Venue: Lurgan Junior High School - indoor Start Date: Started Day: Wednesdays Junior Club: 7pm - 8pm Senior Club: 8pm - 9pm MOYLE DFC Venue: Cross & Passion College - indoor Start Date: Started Day: Tuesdays Junior Club: 5pm - 6pm Senior Club: 6pm - 7pm OMAGH DFC Venue: Omagh Leisure Centre - indoor Start Date: Started Day: Tuesdays Junior Club: 5pm - 6pm Senior Club: 6pm - 7pm

Title:  Activities in Craigavon/Banbridge area - Southern Health Trust Date:   30th October News Details: The Southern Health Trust have set up a number of activities through their Fit 4U Project: 6 Week Swimming Programme (beginners) – Cascades Leisure Centre, Portadown Thursday 22nd October 09 Thursday 29th October 09 Thursday 5th November 09 Thursday 12th November 09 Thursday 19th November 09 Thursday 26th November 09 Time: 11.40 am to 12.20 pm Cost: £3.10 per person 6 Week Boxercise Programme – Waves Leisure Centre, Lurgan Wednesday 28th October 09 Wednesday 4th November 09 Wednesday 11th November 09 Wednesday 25th November 09 Wednesday 2nd December 09 Wednesday 9th December 09 Time: 11.30 am - 12.30 pm Cost: £3.10 per session (payable at reception) BANBRIDGE AREA: New Age Kurling – Banbridge Leisure Centre Mon 9th November 09 Wed 18th November 09 Mon 23rd November 09 Wed 2nd December 09 Mon 7th December 09 Time: 11.00 am to 12.00 pm Cost: £2.00 per session If you are interested in participating in any of the above activities, please contact Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project Worker, Tel: 028 3752 0602 or email rhonda.richardson@southerntrust.hscni.net for further information.

Title:  Janet Gray Launches 'Blind Ambition' Book Date:   29th October News Details: Janet Gray, Honorary President of Disability Sports NI and 4 times World Disabled Water Ski Champion, launched her book 'Blind Ambition' today at the First Steps Women's Centre, Dungannon. 'Blind Ambition' is the personal story of Janet's remarkable life and recalls her near death experience in 2004 in Tampa, Florida when Janet was skied at high speed into a steel ski jump in the centre of the lake. 'Doctors assessing the extent of my injuries were united in their prognosis: I wouldn't survive the night. Yet they continued to help me fight. The massive trauma to my face prevented me from breathing and an emergency tracheotomy had to be performed. I had been whipped into the ramp at the velocity required to rip a seat belt in two with the result that the bones in my face, including eye sockets, cheek bones, and nose were completely smashed. My jaw was dislocated and suffered multiple fractures plus I lost several teeth. My right hip and pelvis were dislocated and broken as was my left elbow. The head of my femur was crushed, my knee-cap fractured, ribs were also dislocated. I suffered crush injuries, snapped a tendon in my thumb and lost a serious amount of blood. My face was gone, my body a mangled mess and my heart failed on three occasions. But doctors resuscitated me, allowing me to cling tentatively to life. I will never know whether it was a dream or a moment of lucidity but I remember thinking, I am going to die here alone and I didn't get to say good-bye to Paul and my family.' Janet remarkably went on to fully recover and regained her world titles and previous ranking as World Disabled Water Ski Champion. 'Blind Ambition' is on sale now. Everyone at Disability Sports NI wishes Janet the very best of luck with her new venture.

Title:  Scottish Disability Sport seeking to appoint Participation Manager Date:   19th October News Details: Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) Participation Manager Salary Scale : £28,000 – £30,000 subject to experience SDS, in partnership with sportscotland, is seeking to appoint a Participation Manager to work closely with key partner agencies and individuals to support and develop a coherent and robust grassroots sports programme for athletes with a disability across Scotland ensuring an infrastructure that is fit for purpose. The post holder will support and direct SDS branches and Scottish local authorities, establish and develop a robust and comprehensive club development programme and provide support and guidance to the Active Schools Network across Scotland. The post will also lead in establishing and developing policies and procedures relating to all aspects of Child and Vulnerable Adult protection and ensure that the Association complies with all aspects of Equity legislation. The successful candidate will be required to demonstrate proven management experience of people, finance and projects and display excellent leadership, teamwork and decision making skills. Demonstrable experience of child & vulnerable adult protection and equity issues will also be required along with a credible record of working with partners and co-ordination of sporting events. The post will be based at the SDS Head Office at Caledonia House in Edinburgh. For a full job description, candidate specification and application form, see our website: www.scottishdisabilitysport.com. OR, contact Caroline Ellis, Administrator, Scottish Disability Sport, Caledonia House South Gyle, Edinburgh, EH12 9DQ Tel: 0131 317 1130 Fax: 0131 317 1075 E-mail: admin@scottishdisabilitysport.com Closing date: 12 noon on Friday 6th November 2009. Interviews: Friday 20th November 2009

Title:  Lisburn City Council holding Multi Skills/Multi Sports Open Day Date:   12th October News Details: Lisburn City Council are holding an open day/taster session for Multi Skills/Multi Sports for children with disabilities aged 5-11 years old on Wednesday 18th November between 4-5pm in the Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. For more information contact: Kelly Dougan, Community Sports Development Officer, Lisburn City Council Tel: 028 9250 9566

Title:  Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club - Junior League Match Report Date:   7th October News Details: The Knights Juniors travelled to Stoke Mandeville, Buckinghamshire last weekend to compete in the first round of games in the GB Junior Wheelchair Basketball League. The Knights arrived at the Guttman Stadium late on Friday night and with a lack of sleep a slow start was expected on the Saturday morning. The next morning, a tired looking bunch of kids were quickly lifted when they were presented with their new team kit sponsored by Chroma Lighting, Belfast, the Knights were now ready for action. N.I. Knights Vs Swindon Kings: The Knights were first up that morning and were faced by Kings from Swindon. The Knights started off quickly with Jack Agnew ghosting in for a neat basket with only 10 seconds gone. Defensively the crew were immaculate showing good pace and teamwork to cancel out the opposition. The Knights continued with their high tempo game plan and established a healthy 11 point lead at the break with some exceptional baskets from Luke Marshall top scorer with 5 baskets to his name. Team captain James MacSorley and experienced player Cameron Campbell were replaced at half time with rookies Connor Browne and Simone Mathews. With a fairly inexperienced team now on court, the Knights had to work even harder to maintain control of the game. Padraic Farrell quickly fell into the role of play maker demonstrating excellent game vision. The Knights ended the game comfortable winners conceding only one basket with two foul points with a final score of 22 : 4. N.I. Knights Vs Hampshire Hornets: Shortly after lunch the Knights were confronted by the Hampshire Hornets, who at first glance looked physically stronger and taller. The Hornets got off to a better start and without really breaching the Knights tight defence they quickly gained the lead with some impressive outside shooting. Offensively the baskets just wouldn’t drop for the Knights, who finished the half trailing by 10 points. A strong team talk at half time led the Knights to come out fighting in the second half. Some excellent play by Captain James MacSorley led the Knights to outscore the Hornets in the second, but unfortunately the hornets early lead made them too hard to catch, the game ended with the Hornets winning by 25-17. Although disappointed the Knights were determined to put all they had into their final game. N.I. Knights Vs London Force: Late afternoon saw the Knights test their skills against a brash London Force, who before the game thought that the young Knights were here for a party. Not so, as the Knights dominated the game again with a strong defence, which Force found too hard to break down. The Knights were now playing with confidence, picking off their opposition at every opportunity and with the game reaching the break it looked a hard task for Force to pull it back. The Knights line-up changed after the break but the performance remained the same with Padraic Farrell again taking point, his efforts alongside an outstanding physical effort from Simone Mathews contributed to the Knights winning score of 15-2. Overall it was a great team performance and it was clear to see that the hard work and time invested in the kids by coaches Debee Steel, Steven and David McAleese has paid off. The kids now know what is required from them as they look forward to the next round of league games in November. Preparation now starts for the Junior Championship during the Halloween weekend again at Stoke Mandeville where they are aiming to beat last year’s third place. For more information about the Knights please visit our website; www.niknightswbc.btik.com

Title:  Fit 4 U Forthcoming Activities Date:   2nd October News Details: Forthcoming Activities: ARMAGH AREA: Introductory Fitness Programme – Ardmore Recreation Centre, Armagh The exercises involved will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual’s with physical and/or sensory disabilities. The instructor will demonstrate how to participate from a chair or standing position. Wednesday 21st October 2009 Wednesday 28th October 2009 Wednesday 4th November 2009 Wednesday 11th November 2009 Wednesday 25th November 2009 Wednesday 2nd December 2009 Time: 11.00 am to 12.00 pm Cost: £3.00 per session (payable at reception) If you are interested in participating, please contact Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project Worker, on Tel: 028 3752 0602 or email rhonda.richardson@southerntrust.hscni.net. _______________________________________________________________________ DUNGANNON AREA: Zone Hockey – Dungannon Leisure Centre Thursday 15th October 2009 Thursday 22nd October 2009 Thursday 5th November 2009 Thursday 12th November 2009 Thursday 3rd December 2009 Time: 1.30 pm to 2.30 pm Cost: £2.00 per session If you are interested in participating in any of the above activities, please contact Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project Worker, Tel: 028 3752 0602 or email rhonda.richardson@southerntrust.hscni.net for further information.

Title:  Paralympic Council of Ireland appoints Head of Paralympic Athletics Date:   29th September News Details: The Paralympic Council of Ireland in association with Paralympic Athletics Ireland today announced the appointment of Mr. Stephen Maguire to the position of Head of Paralympic Athletics. Mr Maguire, a former Director of Coaching with Athletics Ireland and the coach of Beijing Paralympic Sensation and Double Gold Medallist, Jason Smyth, will be responsible for implementing the High Performance Programme for Paralympic Athletics over the coming years in the lead up to the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Speaking on his appointment to the position, Mr. Maguire said “ I’m delighted to be taking on this role. I have been involved with the Paralympic Council of Ireland at many levels and this is a very athlete focussed organisation. Applying my skills in this role, to improve and develop athlete and coaches for the London 2012 cycle will, I know, be a very rewarding experience.” Speaking on the appointment, President of the Paralympic Council of Ireland, Mr. Jimmy Gradwell said, “The Paralympic Council is delighted with the appointment of Stephen as Head of Irish Paralympic Athletics. Stephen has a wealth of knowledge and experience, which he will bring to the role and this will be of huge benefit to our athletes and coaches.” Commenting on the appointment, Paralympic Performance Director Ms Nancy Chillingworth said, “Stephen is a vastly experienced athletics coach from development up to the highest international level and his track record speaks for itself. We very much welcome him to the team here at the PCI and look forward to working with him in the future.” Maguire, one of Ireland’s most successful coaches having been involved in Irish athletics for many years. A senior international coach, Maguire was named Athletics coach of the Year in 2006 and coached Irish sprint sensation, Jason Smyth to two Gold Medals and World Records in the Beijing Paralympic Games. A native of Strabane, Co. Tyrone and father of one, Maguire takes on the position of Head of Paralympic Athletics on a part time basis. For further information, refer to the Paralympic Council of Ireland website www.pcireland.ie Tel: 01-6251175 Additional Information: The Paralympic Council of Ireland was founded in 1987 and is responsible for the preparation and management of the Irish team in the lead up to, and at, the Paralympic Games, and the development of Paralympic sport in Ireland. Olympic style games for athletes with a physical disability were first held in Rome in 1960. Today, the Paralympics are elite sport events for athletes with physical and sensory disabilities. The Games emphasise the participants’ athletic achievements rather than their disability. Athletes compete in various classes of competition, and are classified according to their disability. The movement has grown dramatically since its first days. The number of athletes participating in Summer Paralympic Games has increased from 400 athletes from 23 countries in Rome in 1960 to 4000 athletes from 147 countries in Beijing in 2008. London will host the 2012 Games. Ireland has a proud tradition at the Games, winning 5 medals (3 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze) in Beijing. END -- John Fulham Communications Officer Paralympic Council of Ireland Mobile - 00353-87-2709182 Email - communications@pcireland.ie www.pcireland.ie

Title:  BBC Searching for Sports Unsung Hero of 2009 Date:   18th September News Details: BBC Sport NI are currently on the search for the Sports Unsung Hero of 2009. See the following link for more information and all requirements for nominations: http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsline/sports_unsung_2009_newsline_feature.shtml

Title:  Welsh Four Nations Disability Badminton Championships Date:   18th September News Details: The Welsh Institute of Sport in Cardiff was the setting for the first leg of the 2009 Four Nations Disability Badminton Championships from 11th to 13th September. Seven members of the Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club travelled to Cardiff to take part in the event. Laura-Lee Jenkins was the first to claim a medal, winning the Wheelchair Women’s Doubles with her partner Bernadette O’Driscoll. Laura-Lee then added a silver medal in the Wheelchair Mixed Doubles category on the Sunday, playing with her Scottish partner Dave Quarrie in what was a very tightly contested match. Next to claim a medal was Gary Bailie in the Learning Disability Mixed Doubles event, with his partner from Wales, Emma Jex, who finished as runners-up. The Club’s best performance was in the Dwarf events, with Niall McVeigh, Emma Farnham, David Kelly and Luke Irvine adding to their impressive performances at the Dwarf World Games that were held in Belfast in July. To start with, Niall McVeigh, who is on the Sport NI elite athlete program, added to his World Singles title with a win over Andrew Martin of England in the final of the Men’s Singles. Shortly after, Niall joined with his English partner, Jonny Den Uli, to beat the English pair of Andrew Martin and Jack Sheppard in the Dwarf Men’s Doubles final. The final medal of the weekend was won by David Kelly and Emma Farnham in the Mixed Doubles event. Having gone through their group without losing a match, followed by a very exciting semi-final game, David and Emma were outplayed in the final by the current World Champions, Andrew Martin and Rachael Choong from England. Despite losing in the final, this was a very positive performance by the pair, and was David’s first medal at a Four Nations event. Thanks must go to all the coaches and volunteers at the Club who have made this success possible, as well as all who have supported the Club over the past year, including Volkswagen Phillips Lisburn, Northern Bank and Ulster Badminton. The next leg of the Four Nations Disability Championships will be in Dublin in November and the Club hope to have a number of players at the event. Anyone interested in learning more about the Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club can email pandisabilitylisburn@irishbadminton.com or contact Terry Conroy on 07789 682446. The Club caters for players with a physical, sensory or learning disability and any new members are always welcome.

Title:  New Southern Trust Boccia Leagues in Bangor, Ards & Lisburn Date:   16th September News Details: Ards Boccia League Venue: Queen's Hall, West Street Newtownards Time: 10:30am-12;30pm Dates: Tuesday 6th October 2009 Tuesday 3rd November 2009 Tuesday 5th January 2010 To register teams for Ards League contact Peter Irvine Community Health Development Worker Tel.91510278 Lisburn Boccia League - Venue: Lisburn LeisurePlex Time: 10:30am-12:30pm Dates: Tuesday 13th October 2009 Tuesday 10th November 2009, Tuesday 12th January 2010 To register teams contact Colette Mc Ginnity, Disability Physical Activity Co-ordinator Tel 91827684 Bangor Boccia League Venue: Borough Gymnasium, Hamilton Road Time: 2:00pm-4:00pm Dates: Monday 19th October 2009 Monday 16th November 2009 Monday 18th January 2010 To register teams contact Eileen Hanna, Community Disability Co-ordinator Tel.91823762

Title:  COMPETITION DATES Date:   15th September News Details: OCTOBER 2009 Thursday 22nd Oct Schools New Age Kurling - Antrim Forum, 11am - 1.15pm NOVEMBER 2009 Thursday 19th Nov Senior (+16) New Age Kurling Competition - Antrim Forum, 11am - 1.15pm Saturday 28th Nov NI Pan-disability Swimming Championships - LVLP Lisburn, 10.30am JANUARY 2010 Thursday 21st Jan Schools Boccia Competition - Antrim Forum, 11am - 1.15pm FEBRUARY 2010 Thursday 18th Feb Senior (+16) Boccia Competition - Antrim Forum, 11am - 1.15pm MARCH 2010 Tuesday 9th Mar Special Schools Sports Hall Athletics - LVLP Lisburn, 11am Wednesday 10th Mar Special Schools Sports Hall Athletics - Templemore SC, L'Derry, 11am For further details on any of the above competitions, contact DSNI 9038 7062 or email@dsni.co.uk

Title:  Scottish Disability Sport Seeking to Appoint Pathways Manager Date:   9th September News Details: Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) Pathways Manager Salary Scale : £30,000 – £32,000 subject to experience SDS, in partnership with sportscotland, is seeking to appoint a Pathways Manager to work closely with key partner agencies and individuals to establish and deliver coherent sports specific pathways for athletes with a disability across Scotland ensuring a seamless transition from participation to performance. The post holder will support, direct and monitor the SDS Disability Sport Regional Manager Network and work in partnership with Scottish local authorities and governing bodies of sport to support the implementation and development of this network. The post will also lead the implementation and co-ordination of a comprehensive national talent identification and development programme and take responsibility for the SDS National Events programme. The successful candidate will be required to demonstrate proven experience of line managing people, finance, projects and display excellent leadership, teamwork and decision making skills. Demonstrable experience of talent identification and development will also be required along with a credible record of working with partners. The post will be based at the SDS Head Office at Caledonia House in Edinburgh. For a full job description, candidate specification and application form, see our website: www.scottishdisabilitysport.com or contact Caroline Ellis, Administrator, Scottish Disability Sport, Caledonia House South Gyle, Edinburgh, EH12 9DQ Tel: 0131 317 1130 Fax: 0131 317 1075 E-mail: admin@scottishdisabilitysport.com Closing date: 12 noon on Monday 28th September 2009 Interviews: Tuesday 13th October 2009

Title:  Introductory Gliding Flights...reduced rates for people with disabilities extended to end December Date:   24th August News Details: The Ulster Gliding Club are continuing their reduced rate for introductory flights for people with disabilities - reduced from £55 to £25 per person - until the end of December 2009. If you would like to take up this opportunity contact Jim Weston on 028 7035 8196 or 07525268959

Title:  Junior Wheelchair Sports Club Date:   18th August News Details: A new Junior Wheelchair Sports Club will be starting on Saturday 5th September 2009 at Belfast Indoor Tennis Centre & Ozone Complex, Ormeau Pk, Belfast. The Club will be multi-sport and will introduce young people to fun, fitness and a wide range of different sports including Wheelchair Basketball, Football, Tennis, Badminton, New Age Kurling and more. The Club will run each Saturday from 11am-1pm and is FREE. Open to school age kids with lower limb disabilities or permanent sports injuries. You dont have to be a 'permanent' wheelchair user to participate. Boys and Girls welcome. Sports Wheelchairs will be available for use at the club. All sessions taken by qualified coaches. For further details: Contact Jim Agnew 078 2132 0072

Title:  Scottish Disability Sport Job Opportunities Date:   18th August News Details: Job Opportunities with Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) Disability Sport Regional Managers – West of Scotland (2 Posts) Salary Scale : £25,000 – £28,000 subject to experience SDS, in partnership with sportscotland, is seeking to appoint two Disability Sport Regional Managers in the West of Scotland to lead the implementation, coordination and monitoring of an integrated Disability Sport Development Plan across the region for people and athletes with a physical, sensory or learning disability. The post holders will work in partnership with all relevant stakeholders in disability sport to deliver coherent sports specific pathways. The posts will be responsible for further developing existing sports structures and ensuring a seamless pathway from participation to performance. The successful candidates will be required to demonstrate proven experience of developing, implementing and evaluating sports development plans and programmes as well as knowledge of sports development pathways and talent identification and development. These posts are initially offered on a three year fixed term basis with expectation of extension with an office base in the West of Scotland. For a full job description, candidate specification and application form, see our website: www.scottishdisabilitysport.com. OR, contact Caroline Ellis, Administrator, Scottish Disability Sport, Caledonia House South Gyle, Edinburgh, EH12 9DQ Tel: 0131 317 1130 Fax: 0131 317 1075 E-mail: admin@scottishdisabilitysport.com Closing date: 12 noon on Thursday 10th September 2009. Interviews: Friday 18th September 2009

Title:  Northern Ireland Team's Impressive Medal Count at Dwarf World Games Date:   7th August News Details: With the Dwarf World Games finishing on Sunday, the Northern Ireland squad are making sure plenty of the medals will be staying at home after scooping an impressive number throughout the week. Amy Kennedy from Ballyclare started off the week on a high at the athletics on Monday by winning gold in the 40m sprint and silver in the discus. Amy, 13 years old, has previously taken part in the European Games in Belfast in 2006. Seven year old Shane McAnulty from Armagh then scooped the silver medal in the Under 11 New Age Kurling competition on Tuesday evening at University of Ulster Jordanstown. After athletics on Monday at the Mary Peters Track, Larne Leisure Centre hosted the swimming championships on Tuesday morning before proceedings moved to the University of Ulster Jordanstown for the remainder of the Games. The Under 15 uni-hoc NI team clinched bronze on Thursday and the badminton finals were a huge success for the squad with Niall McVeigh, Newry picking up gold in the men’s singles and silver in the mixed doubles, along with his partner from GB Krysten Coombs. Emma Farnham, Bangor and Luke Irvine, Belfast also added to the tally with Emma winning silver in the women’s badminton singles and Luke taking bronze in mixed doubles, along with his partner from the Irish squad Mark Mulligan. The Northern Ireland squad will continue in their pursuit of medals when their teams compete in the football today and basketball heats on Saturday, aiming to progress to the basketball finals on Sunday. Eugene McVeigh, Chairperson of the DAA NI said, “After all the preparation it is great to see the Games running so well and to watch the teams who have travelled to Belfast from all over the world really enjoying their experience here. The Northern Ireland team are definitely doing us proud, and the whole week has just been superb, the level of competition, the excitement and the team spirit and camaraderie which everyone is displaying has been fantastic to watch.” The 2009 Dwarf World Games are sponsored by Belfast City Council, the Department for Culture Arts and Leisure, and Sport Northern Ireland, and supported by Disability Sports NI. Premier Inn is the official accommodation provider for the Games. For more information on the Dwarf World Games, Belfast go to www.daani.org

Title:  Disability Sports Drive Forward with Ulster Garden Villages Date:   7th August News Details: Disability Sports NI have received funding from Ulster Garden Villages enabling them to purchase a branded van to transport inclusive sports equipment around venues throughout Northern Ireland. The van will be used as a mobile inclusive sports resources unit fully equipped with a full range of games and sports equipment and used by Disability Sports NI to increase their number of community events and participation initiatives. These events are designed to give people with physical, sensory and learning difficulties the chance to lead an active life through sport and physical activity, and include swimming, boccia, athletics and wheelchair basketball. The van will also be used to enhance the quality and impact of Disability Sports NI Training Courses by allowing them to transport sports wheelchairs and other specialist equipment for practical use throughout the sessions. Rather than solely relying on theoretical training, the equipment will give participants a hands-on opportunity to use the equipment to gain an insight into what it is like to have a disability and play sport. The courses ran for coaches, sports leaders and leisure centre staff on how to better include people with disabilities in sports and physical activity programmes, take place throughout Northern Ireland. Angela Hendra, Disability Sports NI Chairperson said, “We are extremely grateful to Ulster Garden Villages for providing us the opportunity to purchase the van which I know will have an enormously positive impact on our work. It will help us deliver participation events in a more efficient way and allow us to bring a practical element to our training courses simply not possible before due to the impracticality of transporting such bulky equipment. The van will also be used to help us support our many member groups, and has already been put to good use last week to help the DAA NI transport equipment for the Dwarf World Games.” On current levels of activity, it is estimated over a five year period the unit could benefit nearly 8,000 adults and children with disabilities, as well as improving the quality of training received by 2,250 leisure centre staff, sports coaches, leaders and administrators.

Title:  Befriender Volunteers Required Date:   24th July News Details: CAN YOU BE A FRIEND? This service came into being six years ago as there was a perceived lack of services for young people who were in the process of leaving the care system. Actually leaving the care of statutory services is a period of adjustment for young people and can take any amount of time between the ages of 16-21. The role of this service therefore, is to introduce a volunteer who will be matched with a young person and work as a befriender. Befrienders are vetted and trained and receive support and supervision from the Volunteer Co-Ordinator. Volunteers will then work on a one to one basis and spend some time each week if possible, in each others company, usually doing some kind of social activity. This can be arranged between both parties at mutually convenient times. The young people may have moved to a new area, they may have poor social skills or they might be socially isolated. Some young people may not have much support so having a friend who they can talk to and spend time with can make all the difference Volunteers could be out and about enjoying themselves andhaving fun in the knowledge that they are doing something worthwhile. Volunteers are paid travel expenses and most of the activitie are funded. Does this sound like you? If you want to become a befriender or want more information: please contact Janet Simm on 028 9446 0695 or 07952415744 or janetsimm@praxiscare.org.uk

Title:  DW Sports Fitness Hold Fundraising Triathlon Event for Disability Sports NI Date:   15th July News Details: A huge thank you to DW Sports Fitness, L'Derry who recently organised a triathlon fundraising event in response to The Janet Gray Appeal, with all funds raised by their staff and members going towards the work of Disability Sports NI. The three day event held at the end of June 2009 raised an impressive £516, after a day of swimming on the Friday, running on the Saturday and cycling on the Sunday.

Title:  NI Athletes Claim Gold Date:   15th July News Details: Congratulations to the Northern Ireland team who travelled to Blackpool to compete in the National Junior Athletics Championships. Although only a team of three competed they managed to secure 3 Gold and 2 Silver medals during the course of the weekend. James Hamilton tallied Gold medals in the 1500m and 800m track events as well as setting a new British Record in the 800m while wheelchair athlete Matthew Smyth claimed the third gold in the 400m event. The two Silver medals came from Conor McShane for his performances in the 400m track event and shot putt. With over 500 athletes from the UK competing over the weekend, including a number of Paralympians the Northern Ireland team proved they could compete with the best.

Title:  Knights host Ireland team Date:   7th July News Details: On Sat 13 June the Northern Ireland Knights played host to the Ireland National Wheelchair Basketball team, to assist them in their preparations for the European Div C championships in Latvia which will run from 22-29 July 09. NI Knights have four players in the Ireland squad, player/coach Jason Kennedy, David Young, Calvin Watson and Peter Mitchell. Although these games were supposed to be friendly there was a real edge to them as both teams wanted to win. This proved to be the case and the games were keenly contested, as the two games were split with Ireland winning the first game 64-57 and Knights winning the second 62-53. The Ireland National team will compete in a seven team group against Latvia, Croatia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Greece and Belarus. It is a tough schedule of games which will see the team play eight games in six days. Captain of the Ireland team, Jason Kennedy, said ‘We are going to Latvia with the real prospect of promotion to the B Division next year. To do this we need to contest the final, which we are confident of doing and we hope to win the competition outright and bring some silverware back with us. I would like to thank the NI Knights club for their hospitality and support in our preparations for Latvia.’

Title:  Introductory Gliding Flights.....reduced price available Date:   6th July News Details: Due to recently acquired sponsorship the Ulster Gliding Club is currently offering people with disabilities the opportunity to take part in gliding at a reduced rate. The club, which has an accessible glider, has reduced the cost of an introductory flight from £55 per person to £25 per person until the end of September 09. If you would like to take up this opportunity contact Jim Weston on 028 7035 8196 or 07525268959

Title:  Travelling By Air Just Got Easier For Disabled and Reduced Mobility Passengers Date:   2nd July News Details: Travelling by air just got easier for Northern Ireland passengers with a disability or reduced mobility said the Consumer Council as it launched ‘Access to Air Travel’, a guide that informs passengers of the type and level of assistance they are entitled to at the airport. The Minister for Regional Development Conor Murphy MP, MLA launched the guide at George Best Belfast City Airport on 30 June 2009. EU law now means passengers with a disability or reduced mobility have improved rights at all EU airports. They are entitled to assistance throughout their journey, from booking their flight, check in, boarding and leaving their destination airport. Aodhan O’Donnell, Head of Transport at the Consumer Council said: “Over 8 million passengers travel through our local airports each year. Many of these passengers have a disability or reduced mobility due to age, illness or temporary injury such as a broken leg. Our Access to Air Travel guide aims to raise awareness among passengers and help them get the assistance they are entitled to. “The Consumer Council has been given the responsibility to promote this service in Northern Ireland, deal with enquiries and handle passenger complaints by the Department of Transport. We welcome the support by our local Executive Minister Conor Murphy in launching the guide today and look forward to working with him and the Department for Regional Development to promote this legislation in the future. The Consumer Council has also been working with all three airports here to ensure changes are made and would like to commend them for all their hard work undertaken to date. The airports have engaged with passenger groups, improved facilities and undertaken staff training. “The current uptake of this service by disabled and reduced mobility passengers in Northern Ireland is low. When a similar initiative was launched in England, enquires about assistance soared by 335%, we want to see more passengers here who are entitled to the assistance make use of it. Passengers who feel they could benefit from assistance at the airport can get a free copy of Access to Air Travel by contacting the Consumer Council on 0800 121 6022.” For more information, visit www.consumercouncil.org.uk

Title:  Disability Summer Schemes at Belfast Activity Centre Date:   30th June News Details: The schemes give young people with disabilities a chance to participate in activities which they may not have tried before- e.g. climbing, caving, canoeing, orienteering and archery. * Week 1: 3rd-7th August * Week : 10th-14th August * The schemes are open to young people with all disabilities aged 13-25yrs. * The cost is £50 per week but there is a possibility of a number of free places on each week. Please contact the Centre to discuss this. If you phone this week please ask to speak to Nicola Campbell who coordinates the Disability Programme in the Centre.) * The Activity Centre supports the young people while they are on the scheme so family/additional support is not usually necessary. * Transport is not provided to the Centre. The Centre is situated in Barnett's Demesne near Shaw's Bridge, Belfast. Tel. 02890600132 You can find out more about the Centre at: www.belfastactivitycentre.com

Title:  Belfast to host World Dwarf Games Date:   25th June News Details: Belfast is to host one of the world`s most unique sporting events. The fifth World Dwarf Games will be held in the city from Monday 27 July - Sunday 2 August. More than 200 athletes of restricted growth, from 15 countries, will take part in nine sports. The competitions will take place at the Mary Peters Track in south Belfast, Larne Leisure Centre and the University of Ulster`s Jordanstown campus. The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Naomi Long, today paid tribute to the Dwarf Athletic Association of Northern Ireland (DAANI), who have been successful in bringing the World Games to Belfast. “Through their hard work and dedication, DAANI gives people with restricted growth conditions the opportunity to get more involved in mainstream sports and outdoor activities,” said Councillor Long. “Events like this are important to Belfast and its economy, and the Council is extremely pro-active in attracting high profile events to the city: our research indicates that every £1 we spend on hosting major international events generates £42 in income for the city.” Eamonn McCartan, Chief Executive of Sport Northern Ireland, added: “This promises to be an exciting and unique event, once again affording Belfast, and Northern Ireland as whole, a valuable opportunity to showcase itself on the international stage as an ideal venue for worldclass sporting events.” The first World Dwarf Games were held in Chicago, USA, in 1993. England, Canada and France subsequently have held the Games, in 1997, 2001 and 2005 respectively. In 2006, Belfast City Council hosted the first Belfast City European Championships, which attracted more than 100 athletes – including three of Europe`s top paralympians – from eight different countries. The 2009 World Dwarf Games are sponsored by Belfast City Council, the Department for Culture Arts and Leisure, and Sport Northern Ireland, and supported by Disability Sports NI. Premier Inn is the official accommodation provider for the Games.

Title:  Job Opportunity - Belfast Activity Centre Date:   23rd June News Details: LOTTERY FUNDED Do you want to make a difference? Do you want to ‘Change lives and build futures?’ Full Time Instructor – Disability Programme BELFAST ACTIVITY CENTRE £12,714 to £18,039 (pro rata) dependent on experience, Ref: 0509/01 DPFT/IN Belfast Activity Centre (BAC) is the leading personal development charity in Northern Ireland. It aims to engage people from all backgrounds in programmes of activity that encourage them to reach their full potential and explore their social and personal development. Based in Belfast, the Centre works across Northern Ireland with a wide range of groups, charities and individual young people. Our vision is to develop a world class organisation. In order to do this we need world class people who really do want to expand their horizons, ‘Change lives and build futures’. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a rapidly expanding visionary team. We are looking for dynamic individuals who will be responsible for assisting with the developmental work on our exceptionally successful disability project. They will run sessions of personal development activities using the Belfast Adventure Learning Park (climbing, canoeing, high ropes, mountain biking and caving.), support the delivery of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and provide assistance and leadership across the programme. In return, we offer an exceptional working environment as well as development opportunities including equipment allowance, training, pension, a generous holiday entitlement and other benefits. Full time staff work 36.5 hours per week. This is a great opportunity to develop your career and really make a difference. Sound interesting? For more information and an application pack please visit our website www.belfastactivitycentre.com or email info@belfastactivitycentre.com or ring 02890 600132. Closing date: For initial applications is 26th June at 5.00pm. BAC is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Title:  Vetting and Barring Scheme Information Roadshow Date:   11th June News Details: A Vetting & Barring Scheme (VBS) Information Roadshow will be held in the Waterfront Hall in Belfast on 29 June 2009. There will be both morning and afternoon sessions. The morning session will run from 10:00am until 1:00pm; the afternoon session from 2:00pm until 5:00pm. This a joint production between government departments responsible for delivery of the VBS across Northern Ireland, England and Wales; AccessNI, the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). The event will explain the scope of the scheme and its impact on employers, voluntary organisations, employees and volunteers and provide an opportunity for delegates to have their questions answered. It will also demonstrate how AccessNI, CRB and the ISA will deliver the new scheme as required under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (NI) Order 2007 and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006. The events are free to attend and open to all interested parties. However, places are limited and must be booked in advance through the ISA website: http://www.isa-gov.org

Title:  Belfast Coaches Recognised at 2009 Lucozade/Sport Belfast Sports Awards Date:   11th June News Details: Congratulations to Patrick McKillop and Jason Kennedy who received coaching awards at the Lucozade Sport Belfast Physical Activity and Sports awards held on 26th May at Belfast Castle. Patrick was delighted to receive the Disability Coach award for his work with 2008 Paralympic Gold Medallist and World Record holder Michael McKillop while Jason received the Senior Club Coach award for his achievements with the Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club who won the Great Britain League Division 1 Title in the 08/09 season.

Title:  IFA LEVEL 2 COACHING DISABLED FOOTBALLERS AWARD - 16/17 June Date:   10th June News Details: IFA LEVEL 2 COACHING DISABLED FOOTBALLERS AWARD Tues 16 June and Wed 17 June 2009 15 hours tuition time and 10 hours recorded coaching Tues: 9.30am-8.30pm Wed: 9.30am-4.30pm Fee: £100 (includes lunch and dinner on 16 June and lunch on 17 June) This award is aimed at coaches already working with or intending to work with players with a disability. Coaches Alan Crooks and Mal Donaghy For more information contact: acrooks@irishfa.com

Title:  IWA Summer Sports Camp - July 2009 Date:   10th June News Details: IWA – Sport Junior Summer Camp 2009 IWA – Sport HQ Clontarf & Days Hotel, Santry Cross, Ballymun Road, Dublin 9 Tuesday 14th July - Thursday 16th July 2009 IWA –Sport is hosting its annual residential sports camp for junior athletes from 5 – 18 years. There will be 3 age appropriate groups (5-9yrs., 10-14yrs., and 15-18yrs). Key information Activities (subject to change) Archery Rugby Tennis Badminton Track & Field Swimming Basketball Table Tennis Hand Cycling Orienteering Sports facilities and activity locations A variety of sports facilities will be used during the camp of which you will be advised of in the near future. Recreation As per previous years a comprehensive programme of recreational activities will be on offer on both evenings of the sports camp. Accommodation Accommodation and meals will be provided at the Days Hotel, Santry Cross, Ballymun, Dublin 9. There is a variety of accommodation types available to include: apartment style (with kitchenette and living area, sleeps 4, roll out possible for additional young child), Standard Twin rooms, Suites (with kitchenette and living area). Summer camp packages Options are available for fully inclusive packages for the duration of the camp or day packages if preferred. (see booking form for rates) Entries There is limited availability, places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis! Already there is great interest. Parents and siblings of members are welcome to attend. This camp is being subsidised by IWA-Sport and Irish Sports Council. IWA–Sport, Blackheath Drive, Clontarf, Dublin 3 Enquiries: Ed Niland 061 313691 or 087 9983 178 Claire Fitzgerald 01 8186451 Email: info@iwasport.com

Title:  Irish Squad Sweep the Boards at Paralympic Grand Prix of Wales Date:   5th June News Details: By Denis Toomey, Irish Paralympic Cycling Manager Hot on the heels of their medal winning and record setting performances at the Paralympic Track World Cup in Manchester the Irish Paralympic Cycling Squad were back to their winning ways finishing in first place in three of the four categories they competed in and second in the fourth category at the International Grand Prix of Wales in Newport. The event was run as a Track Omnium with points up for grab in the 200m sprint, the 500m/1km Time Trial and the 3km/4km Individual Pursuit. Cathal Miller was in flying form in the LC1 Male competition with three straight wins guaranteeing him his first big win of 2009. His time in the 4km Pursuit was 4:55.014 just 2 seconds off his record set in Beijing so we can look forward to that record falling further in the near future. Female Tandem pairing of Catherine Walsh and Caroline Ryan set their second Irish Record of the week this time in the 1km Time Trial which they won in a time of 1:12.980 almost a full second better that the time recorded by Catherine in Beijing. A further win in the 3km Pursuit set them up nicely for to regain the title won by Catherine and Joanna Hickey in 2008. Not to be left out Enda Smyth competing in the CP4 Category set a new Irish Record of 1:15.025 in the 1km Time Trial and also set a new Irish Standard time of 5:24.051 when winning the 4km Pursuit. The UCI has decided 4km will be the Pursuit distance for CP4 riders in the future up from the 3km distance used in previous competitions. Female LC1 rider Ann McFarland riding in just her second Paralympic competition put in three good rides to finish in second place behind the USA rider. Only the USA Team who won four events out scored the Team from Ireland at this the fourth running of the event in Newport. We hope the whole squad can now build on these performances in preparation for the World Road Championships in Italy in September and the World Track Championships in Manchester next November.

Title:  2009 AMPUTEE GAMES Date:   4th June News Details: The 2009 Amputee Games- 22/23 August The 2009 Amputee Games is back at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the home of disability sport, for another power packed two-days of sporting opportunity. Participants will be invited to ‘have-a-go' at 13 Paralympic sports under the guidance of the sporting governing bodies. The inaugural event saw 81 amputees take part in archery, badminton, basketball, bowls, fencing, athletics, shooting, swimming, tennis, power-lifting, table-tennis, hand cycling and sitting volleyball. From this we know that one participant has gone on to join the National Sitting Volleyball squad and a number of other participants have taken part in a wheelchair tennis coaching weekend, as well as taking part in sports at a local level. The Amputee Games is a great opportunity to be spotted by talent coaches from the British Paralympic Association as well as the individual sporting governing bodies. This truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity for new amputees to learn about the different sporting opportunities available to them, whether it be at a local level for the fun of participation or at a national level as a professional athlete. As well as taking part in the 13 Paralympic sports being demonstrated at the event participants can also talk to representatives from these and other sporting organisations throughout the games at the sports information centre. The Games takes place on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. For more information on how to get involved call Kiera on 07968760001 or email kieraf1@btinternet.com

Title:  Summer Activities in Fermanagh Date:   4th June News Details: The Fermanagh Summer Activities & School of Sport 2009 information is now available for download, full of lots to keep you busy. DOWNLOAD SUMMER ACTIVITIES LEAFLET DOWNLOAD SUMMER SWIMMING ACTIVITIES LEAFLET

Title:  Mary Peters Walk or Run Date:   3rd June News Details: This summer there will be a 1mile walk and a 10km run on behalf of the Mary Peters Trust. The walk and run will be on Sunday 5 July 2009. DOWNLOAD FLYER FOR WALK DOWNLOAD RUN APPLICATION FORM

Title:  Back-Up - Enabling people with spinal injuries to surpass their expectations Date:   22nd May News Details: Events Calendar 2009 Youth Ski Course, Are,Sweden - 4-12th Apr '09 Scuba Course Egypt - 9-16th May'09 Waterski Course - 21-26th Jun '09 Keswick multi-activity course Lake District - 11-18th Jul '09 Exmoor multi-activity course - 17-24th Jul '09 Canoe/Kayak course, North Wales - 16-21st Aug '09 Multi-activity youth course - 21-24th Aug '09 Keswick multi-activity course - 22-29th Aug '09 Sailing, Lake District - 29th Aug - 5th Sep '09 Exmoor multi-activity course - 18-25th Sep '09 Ski taster day, Bracknell - 27 Sep '09 Contact: 020 8875 1805 admin@backuptrust.org.uk

Title:  NI Swimmer makes GB team for Global Games Date:   21st May News Details: UK SPORTS ASSOCIATION For People with Learning Disability British Athletes to Global Games Announced The UK Sports Association for People with Learning Disability is pleased to announce its talented team of 25 elite athletes across four sports representing Great Britain at the 2009 INAS-FID Global Games in the Czech Republic, July 5th to 14th. Team GB will comprise competitors in swimming,athletics, table tennis and cycling with the best of British joining an expected 2000 athletes from across the world in a multi sport Championships and 7 days of fierce competition. Swimming - Dan Pepper (Poynton), Ben Procter (Newquay), Nicholas Boylan (Ashford), Craig Moate (Barking), Craig Rodgie (Fife), Matthew Bell(Newtownards), Jack Thomas (Swansea), Stephanie Bird (Lowestoft); Table Tennis: Neil Handley (Rochdale), Alistair Feltham (Bournemouth), Duncan Feltham (Bournemouth), Jeffrey Jarvis (Melton Mowbray), Adam Thompson (Sale), Victoria Bromley (Wolverhampton), Jacqueline Smith (Chelmsford), Jessica Bromley (Wolverhampton); Cycling - Scott Walker (Inverurie); Athletics - Allan Stuart (Glasgow), Neill Collins (Rainham), James Simpson (Ulverston), Andrew Kaar (Solihull), James Shaw (Tameside), Monique Davis (Croydon), Claire Ryan (Bradford) and Abbie Greetham (Halifax). Amongst this impressive line up are both experienced performers and international newcomers. With many Gold Medallists, World, European and British Record Holders, Team GB will present a formidable challenge to its opponents. This talented team, are proud to accept the challenge at this important Championship, but without funding will be unable to compete for Great Britain at the Global Games. “This is a Team of highly committed and motivated athletes who are driven to be the best in the world”, says Tracey McCillen, National Director, UK Sports Association for People with Learning Disability (UKSA), “but despite being selected to represent Great Britain, they must also bear the financial burden of competition. We invite athletes to represent GB, but must send an invoice to them for that privilege. This is a critical year for our athletes and for UKSA. Without immediate financial support, our work in facilitating these opportunities for athletes with learning disability will end and the athletes themselves will be unable to compete at the Global Games and other significant Championship events in their programmes”. Team GB is led by Chef de Mission, Verona Elder MBE an experienced athlete and Commonwealth Games Gold medallist and a host of professional coaches and support staff all of whom are providing their time voluntarily. Recently recognised by the International Paralympic Committee, the Global Games is a significant event for British athletes. The eyes of the sports world will be on the Games both from a performance perspective and in anticipation of the outcomes from the collaborative work of the joint INAS-FID/IPC Working Group. The Group has been tasked with determining the methods by which athletes with intellectual disability may be included in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. The ban on athletes with intellectual disability competing in the Paralympic Games, imposed after the Sydney 2000 Games continues although progress is being made by the joint Working Group. The IPC decision on inclusion in London 2012 is expected in November 2009. UKSA working with its members and organisations across the UK, has led a campaign since 2001 for the ban to be lifted. UKSA urges Government to address the lack of funding for athletes across the UK as a result of the IPC ban and LOCOG, the Mayor of London and MP’s to ensure that athletes are re-admitted in time for London 2012.

Title:  BADMINTON TASTER SESSIONS IN LISBURN Date:   20th May News Details: PAN-DISABILITY LISBURN BADMINTON CLUB Would you like a chance to try badminton? Free badminton session for anyone with a disability Where? National Badminton Centre, Lisburn When? Saturday 13th June 2009 Time? 1.00-3.00pm Refreshments Tea & Coffee Contact Terry Conroy Tel. 07789 682 446 or Email pandisabilitylisburn@irishbadminton.com

Title:  KNIGHTS ARE BRITISH CHAMPIONS !!! Date:   20th May News Details: The NI Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club topped off a fantastic season for the club with the clubs main team lifting the Great Britain League Division 1 Title at the weekend. The Knights travelled to Sheffield for the Play-Offs weekend, which featured the 1st, 2nd, 3rd & Women's Division Play-Offs at the EIS, Sheffield. In a very one-sided semi-final the Knights thrashed London Force 66-28, while in the other semi, Birmingham Black Cats edged past Sheffield Steelers. Before the final, the talk was about whether the Knights could deal with the aggressive style of the Birmingham team, but the NI boys were up to the task and totally demolished the B'ham team with a fantastic display of team basketball leaving the Final scoreline 75-50 in favour of the Knights. This victory gets the Knights into the near professional Super League, which features the top 6 teams in the UK.

Title:  Head of Paralympic Swimming Post Date:   14th May News Details: Head of Paralympic Swimming The Paralympic Council of Ireland in association with Paralympic Swim Ireland (PSI) is seeking to appoint a Head of Paralympic Swimming. The job holder will be responsible for implementing the High Performance Programme for Paralympic swimming leading to the 2012 London Paralympic Games. This includes the management of Paralympic Swim Ireland squads incorporating the coordination of coaching support and other necessary support staff ensuring that all work to support the Paralympic Swimming Performance Pathway. The Head of Paralympic Swimming will report to the Paralympic Performance Director of the Paralympic Council of Ireland and among the key tasks will be required to: • Develop, implement and monitor the High Performance Plan and appropriate pathway for Paralympic swimming in agreement with PSI, the Paralympic Performance Director and the High Performance Director of Swim Ireland. • Manage and coordinate coaching support and other support staff members for all events and activities within the performance plan including Senior & Potential panel events, and logistical coordination of same. • Identify appropriate support staff personnel to support the development of PSI squads. Applicants should have: • Proven ability in the management of squads. • Coaching qualifications indicating an ability to successfully monitor the appropriateness of coaching support to athletes on the programme. • Recent track record of working at elite level with athletes and squads. • Ability to be adaptable and to perform in a pressurised setting to strict targets and deadlines. • A clear understanding and commitment to Anti-Doping in sport. Salary: €40,000 Contract type: Fixed Term Contract for 18 months with the potential for renewal up to Dec. 2012, subject to performance. Base location: Dublin. Due to extensive travel involved, a clean current full driving licence and own car is essential Applications, with current Curriculum Vitae by May 29th to: The Chief Executive Officer, Paralympic Council of Ireland, Sport HQ, Joyce Way, Parkwest Business Park, Clondalkin, Dublin 12 Email: info@pcireland.ie HEAD OF PARALYMPIC SWIMMING Job Title: Head of Paralympic Swimming Line Manager: Paralympic Performance Director (PPD) Reporting to: PPD Location: Based in Dublin JOB PURPOSE The job holder will be responsible for implementing the High Performance Programme for Paralympic swimming leading to the 2012 London Paralympic Games. This includes the management of Paralympic Swim Ireland squads incorporating the coordination of coaching support and other necessary support staff ensuring that all work to support the Paralympic Swimming Performance Pathway. KEY TASKS 1. The development, implementation and monitoring of the High Performance Plan and appropriate pathway for Paralympic swimming in agreement with PSI, the Paralympic Performance Director and the High Performance Director of Swim Ireland. 2. Managing of and coordinating of coaching support and other support staff members for all events and activities within the performance plan including Senior & Potential panel events, and logistical coordination of same. 3. Identifying appropriate support staff personnel to support the development of PSI squads. 4. To liaise with the key stakeholders and relevant agencies on the planning and implementation of the High Performance plan and Performance pathway and all related matters. 5. To comply with the Code of Ethics/Conduct at all times. 6. Development of an ethos of elite performance among all panel members and support staff. 7. Producing a quarterly report to PSI on all matters relative to Paralympic Swimming. 8. Producing a monthly report to the Paralympic Performance Director. 9. Working with the appointed PCI Sport Science Team in relation to the provision of sport science support to athletes on the programme 10. Management of a results system for Irish Paralympic Swimming. 11. Coordination of IPC licensing for Irish Paralympic Swimmers. 12. Coordination of all aspects of the International Carding Scheme on behalf of Paralympic Swimming. 13. Liaising with Swim Ireland clubs regarding their support of Paralympic panel athletes in their domestic setting. 14. Coordination of all classification protocols on behalf of Irish Paralympic Swimmers. 15. Undertake other responsibilities and lead in key areas as defined from time to time by the Chief Executive Officer of the Paralympic Council of Ireland. PERSON SPECIFICATION – Head of Paralympic Swimming ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS Proven ability in the management of squads. Coaching qualifications indicating an ability to successfully monitor the appropriateness of coaching support to athletes on the programme. Recent track record of working at elite level with athletes and squads. Demonstrable ability to work as part of a team. Excellent communication skills including negotiation skills. Organisational ability and competence in IT including e-mail, word, excel and powerpoint. Ability to be adaptable and to perform in a pressurised setting to strict targets and deadlines. A clear understanding and commitment to Anti-Doping in sport. DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS Experience as a full time employee or a senior level volunteer within a sports organisation. Experience in the monitoring of budgets. Experience of working in a sports performance and excellence environment. Knowledge of classification for Paralympic swimming. Qualification in a management discipline. Contract Details Employer: Paralympic Council of Ireland Contract Type: Fixed term contract for 18 months with the potential for renewal up to December 2012 subject to performance Probationary Period: 6 months from commencement date Salary: €40,000 Hols: 25 days plus bank holidays. Mobility: Due to extensive travel throughout Ireland, must have clean, current full driving licence and own car. The operation of this contract is subject to funding for the position on an annual basis from the Irish Sports Council for the high performance plan of the Paralympic Council of Ireland. References: Two referees appropriate to the position Closing date for Applications: Friday 29th May, 2008

Title:  JOB OPPORTUNITIES WITH ENGLISH FEDERATION OF DISABILITY SPORT Date:   14th May News Details: The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) is the national body responsiblefor developing sport for disabled people in England. We work closely with national sports organizations to develop sporting opportunities for the 11 million disabled people in England. We have two vacancies for self motivated, dynamic individuals to support the development of EFDS’ programmes. We are looking for experienced people with competent skills and the ability to meet targets. An understanding of issues relating to participation in disability sport is preferable, but not essential. Training Development Manager Salary: £ 27,573 - £35,953 Full time: 36 hours Location: Alsager To manage the development and implementation of EFDS’ training programmes working with external partners. For an informal discussion please call Liz Milner on Tel: 07764 291 668 or e-mail: Lmilner@efds.co.uk County Athlete Assessment & Development Centre (CAADC) Co-ordinator Salary: £26,016 – £34,207 Full time: 36 hours Location: Alsager To develop and roll-out CAADC working with national and regional partners. To work as part of a team to roll out the identification and support of disabled players and athletes who demonstrate potential to succeed in a defined number of sports. For an informal discussion please call Colin Chaytors on Tel: 07764 291 662 or e-mail: cchaytors@efds.co.uk For further details and an application form, please contact: EFDS, Manchester Met University, Alsager Campus, Hassall Road, Alsager, ST7 2HL. Tel: 0161 247 5294. Minicom: 0161 247 5644 or e-mail: federation@efds.co.uk Closing date for applications 12 noon Wednesday 3rd June 2009. Interviews will be held on w/c 8th June 2009. The English Federation of Disability Sport is an equal opportunities employer and receives funding from Sport England. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum

Title:  Goalball - Come & Try it Event in L'Derry Date:   11th May News Details: GOALBALL “The only sport devised specifically for the blind & partially sighted” COME AND TRY 14TH MAY 2009 AT LISNEAL COLLEGE, CRESCENT LINK ROAD L/DERRY FROM 7.00PM until 9.00PM OPEN TO ALL • Goalball is open to male and female, visually impaired athletes. • All players in all competition have to wear blacked out eye shades to ensure equality. • The game is unique to Paralympic sport with the object being to roll a ball past opposition defence and into the opponent’s goal. • The ball contains bells that enable the players to hear it. • Games are played on a court 18m x 9m, which is marked with tactile lines. • Unusually the game is played in complete quiet so that the players can focus on the sound and location of the ball. • Players are allowed to defend the ball by any means within specific areas of the court. • There are three main rules concerning the manner of throwing. Firstly the ball must touch the floor within specific areas of the court to ensure defending players can locate the ball, secondly a throw must take place within 10 seconds of first contact by any member of the defending team and thirdly no player may take more than two consecutive throws. • Goalball is currently played in around 70 countries. FAMILIES MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS WELCOME FREE ENTRY TO ALL SPORTS HALL CLOTHING & FOOTWARE REQUIRED FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT KEITH LOUND 07526563528 GOALBALL NI----RNIB

Title:  KNIGHTS DOUBLE CUP WINNERS Date:   11th May News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball had a very successful weekend, picking up both the Irish 1st Division Cup on saturday in Dublin and then the Irish 2nd Division Cup in Belfast on sunday. The 1st Division Cup was clinched in style with the Knights progressing to the final after 2 comfortable victories over southern opposition. In the final versus Shannonside, the Knights were expecting a tough battle but it turned out to be a very one sided affair with the Knights able to utilise their bench very effectively to trounce the Dublin side 76-28 to bring the cup back to NI. On sunday at Queens PEC, the Knights Development side were in action in the Irish 2nd Division Cup competition. The Knights beat Ardee in the semi-final to set up an intriguing final against the tough Wildcats side. For the first half of the final the Knights held a slender lead, doing a good job in defence keeping the Wildcats tall forwards out of the danger area while converting some nice offensive moves. The wildcats staged a mini revival at the start of the second half and ate into the Knights lead but Geordie Wallace and James MacSorley kept the knights score ticking over and as the half progressed the Knights increased their advantage to run out easy winners by 47-28 and lift the 2nd trophy of the weekend for the Knights club.

Title:   Date:   8th May News Details: GOALBALL “The only sport devised specifically for the blind & partially sighted” COME AND TRY 14TH MAY 2009 AT LISNEAL COLLEGE, CRESCENT LINK ROAD L/DERRY FROM 7.00PM until 9.00PM OPEN TO ALL • Goalball is open to male and female, visually impaired athletes. • All players in all competition have to wear blacked out eye shades to ensure equality. • The game is unique to Paralympic sport with the object being to roll a ball past opposition defence and into the opponent’s goal. • The ball contains bells that enable the players to hear it. • Games are played on a court 18m x 9m, which is marked with tactile lines. • Unusually the game is played in complete quiet so that the players can focus on the sound and location of the ball. • Players are allowed to defend the ball by any means within specific areas of the court. • There are three main rules concerning the manner of throwing. Firstly the ball must touch the floor within specific areas of the court to ensure defending players can locate the ball, secondly a throw must take place within 10 seconds of first contact by any member of the defending team and thirdly no player may take more than two consecutive throws. • Goalball is currently played in around 70 countries. FAMILIES MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS WELCOME FREE ENTRY TO ALL SPORTS HALL CLOTHING & FOOTWARE REQUIRED FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT KEITH LOUND 07526563528 GOALBALL NI----RNIB

Title:  NI Knights players selected for International Wheelchair Basketball Teams Date:   5th May News Details: Matthew Rollston from the Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team has been drafted into the GB Paralympic World Cup team competing in Manchester in May 2009. This is a fantastic achievement by Matthew who has been on the cusp of the squad over the past year, but has been working hard on his game behind the scenes. Its also recognition of the work of Knights coach Jason Kennedy who has refocused the Knights Club training sessions over the past couple of seasons. Good Luck MOOKIE! Meanwhile Calvin Watson, David Young & Jason Kennedy have been selected for the Ireland Wheelchair Basketball Team which will compete at the European Wheelchair Basketball Championships 'C' Division in Latvia, July 2009. Well done lads

Title:  Knights Juniors take 4th Place.... Date:   30th April News Details: The Knights Junior Team (Under 17's) travelled over to Nottingham to compete in the Play-Offs for the GB Junior Wheelchair Basketball League 26 April 2009. After a tough series of matches against the top Junior Wheelchair Basketball teams from throughout the UK, the Northern Ireland Young Guns finshed in a creditable 4th place. Sheffield Juniors took the 1st place prizes followed by Bury Bombers & Notts Jaguars. Knights Junior Co-ordinator Aubrey Bingham remarked "It was always going to be tough for our junior team to compete with the top teams but they definitely gave a good account of themselves. We had the youngest average age (13 yrs)and it should be noted that the top juniors in England/Wales attend weekly regional basketball sessions with high performance coaches , this is in addition to their own club training sessions"

Title:  Irish Wheelchair Tennis Championships 2009 Date:   28th April News Details: 4th Irish Wheelchair Tennis Open Championships will take place in David Lloyd Riverview Health & Fitness Centre, Beech Hill, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4, Ireland. The tournament will take place from Friday, 21st through to Sunday 23rd August. Our tournament is supported by Tennis Ireland and INVACARE Ireland. Contact Mark Barry Sports Development Officer Irish Wheelchair Association-Sport Tel: +353 1 8186476 Fax: +353 1 853 1256 Mobile: + 353 87 984 2384 Web: www.iwasport.com

Title:  NATIONWIDE SPECIAL SCHOOLS SPORTS HALL ATHLETICS RESULTS 2009 Date:   23rd April News Details: Lisburn Results MLD 1st CEDAR LODGE SCHOOL 2nd HARBERTON SCHOOL 3rd KILLARD HOUSE SCHOOL SLD 1st LISANALLY SCHOOL 2nd BEECHLAWN SCHOOL 3rd HILLCROFT SCHOOL L'DERRY RESULTS MLD 1st BELMONT HOUSE SCHOOL 2nd ROSSMAR SCHOOL 3rd ST BERNADETTE'S SLD 1st SANDELFORD SCHOOL 2nd FOYLEVIEW SCHOOL 3rd KILRONAN SCHOOL Well done to all the teams who competed and a special thank you to the sponsors NATIONWIDE and to all the volunteers from Lisburn City Council Sports Development Dept and North West Regional College Sports students. Get practising for Next Year !

Title:  KNIGHTS CLINCH GB DIVISIONAL TITLE Date:   20th April News Details: Northern Ireland's own Wheelchair Basketball team clinched the Great Britain League Division 1 North Title at the weekend with a hard fough victory over Sheffield Steelers at Antrim Forum. Sheffield came looking for revenge after the Knights had pipped them over in Sheffield earlier in the season. The Yorkshire outfit came out strong and raced into a 14-4 lead with the Knights struggling to get to grips with the game in Defence & Offence. However after a time-out and a change in personnel the Knights started to play some better basketball and by half-time had edged into a 31-30 lead. The 3rd quarter was pretty close but in the 4th the Knights started to build an unassailable lead and ran out 65-56 victors. This means that the Knights qualify for the overall Division 1 play-offs in Sheffield in May where they will be vying for the overall Div 1 title against teams from Milton Keynes, Birmingham & Sheffield.

Title:  New Disability Football Club in Bangor Date:   15th April News Details: BANGOR CASTLE DISABILITY FOOTBALL CLUB WHERE: BANGOR CASTLE LEISURE CENTRE – INDOOR HALL WHEN: WEEKLY CLUB ON WEDNESDAYS, STARTING 6 MAY 2009 AGES & TIMES: 7 – 14 year olds – 5.00pm – 6.00pm 15 and over - 6.00pm – 7.00pm WHO CAN JOIN: BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 7 + WITH A LEARNING AND/OR PHYSICAL DISABILITY COACHES: IFA / UEFA B LICENSE COACHES COST: £2 PER SESSION ACTIVITIES: SKILL PROGRESSION, TEAM PLAY AND SMALL SIDED GAMES INTERESTED? CONTACT ALAN CROOKS, IFA 9066 9458 Or acrooks@irishfa.com

Title:  KNIGHTS SET UP TITLE DECIDER Date:   9th April News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club have secured a place in the Great Britain League Divison 1 North title decider after their most recent victory v's Everton Greenbank at Lisburn Leisureplex. The Knights team controlled the game from the start and coach Jason Kennedy was able to experiment with different line-ups during the game in which the local lads came out 48-20 winners. This means that the title decider will be a home match v's Sheffield Steelers on Saturday 18th April at Antrim Forum, Tip 2:30pm. Everyone welcome, Free entry.

Title:  Gliding for People with Disabilities Date:   26th March News Details: Last year was not a particularly good year for gliding in Ireland as a direct result of the poor weather experienced for most of the year. Nevertheless the Ulster Gliding Club managed to fly more than seventy-five persons with various disabilities on specially appointed days between early April and early October. During this period the Club set aside most Wednesdays and Fridays to fly groups from day centres throughout the province and a considerable number of such centres took advantage of this facility. In particular the Club was delighted to welcome groups from centres in Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Coleraine, Dungiven, Derry, Lisburn, and several centres from the Armagh and Dungannon district. Also, the Club positioned two of their aircraft at St Angelo airfield in Enniskillen during the last week in August to enable those with disabilities from the south west of the province to enjoy the experience of gliding. The photograph below taken last April shows staff preparing to use the hoist to lift the lady sitting on the chair into the cockpit of the glider. The feedback from those who flew has been most encouraging and includes comments such as – • The experience as a first flight was exceptional and I would most surely come again. • Fantastic experience. Thank you very much. The best twenty-five minutes of my life. • Thought I wasn’t going to get a chance to glide because of my disability, but the Gliding Club had an alternative solution and made it possible. • Brilliant experience, great freedom on my own without my wheelchair. Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project, Armagh and Dungannon Health Action Zone explains: “Physically, the activity of directing the glider was good for the user’s co-ordination and mentally, the confidence gained from this feeling of control promoted a sense of achievement. Controlling the glider also helped concentration and required focus. As noted by many users, gliding was also a very relaxing experience, the silence of the flight and marvellous views and freedom produced a calming feeling. For those who were blind the sensation and feeling of gliding were even more apparent.” The beauty of the area over which the Club flies is clearly illustrated in the photograph below which shows the DG 505, one of the Club’s two-seaters, preparing to land. In the background is part of the Inishowen peninsula and in the foreground the Greencastle-Magilligan ferry has just departed from the pier at Magilligan. This year the Club will once again set aside most Wednesdays and Fridays for flying groups of persons with disabilities beginning on Wednesday 22nd April and finishing on Wednesday 30th September. Note that other days may be selected by special arrangement. Groups may be of any size up to a maximum of eight persons and the cost for an introductory flight which includes two months’ membership of the Club is £55. For further details and to book a day contact Jim Weston: telephone 02870358196, mobile 07525268959, email jamesweston1@btinternet.com.

Title:  Paralions Athlete Search Day - Sat 2nd May 2009 Date:   24th March News Details: Paralympic Sports on the lookout for Ireland’s next Paralympic generation The Paralympic Council of Ireland (PCI)announced details of the ParaLions Athlete Search Day to be held in Dublin City University Sports Complex on Saturday May 2nd. The event will feature Irish athletes who competed at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, along with a number of sports demonstrations and a series of exhibition stands for each sport involved. The athlete search day is a coordinated effort by all the Paralympic sports in Ireland to encourage people with physical disabilities and vision impairments to participate in sport, with the ultimate aim of unearthing Irish talent for the London 2012 Paralympic Games and beyond. Each sport will provide information on how to get involved, in addition to which, those attending on the day will be given the opportunity to try out sports alongside Irelands premier athletes. The sports demonstrations include Table Tennis, Boccia, Football, Wheelchair Basketball & Wheelchair Rugby. The highlight of the day will be a series of Athlete Testimonials in which Irish Paralympians will outline their story of their involvement in Paralympic Sport. The testimonials will be given by: * David Malone – four time Paralympian in swimming winning the gold medal at Sydney 2000 * Michael McKillop – Gold medalist and world record holder from the Beijing 2008 Games in athletics. * Padraic Moran – Quarter-finalist in his first Paralympic Games in Beijing in the sport of Boccia. If you have a physical disability or vision impairment, this is a fantastic opportunity to come along, meet Ireland’s Paralympic heroes and participate alongside them The Paralympic movement in Ireland wants to see you and urges you to attend for at least a portion of the day on May 2nd at DCU and, who knows, this could be start of your path to representing Ireland at the Paralympic Games. . . The sports participating on the day include: • Archery • Athletics • Boccia • Cycling • Equestrian • Football • Goalball • Judo • Rowing • Sailing • Swimming (if interested, bring your swim suit) • Table Tennis • Triathlon • Wheelchair Basketball • Wheelchair Rugby • Wheelchair Tennis Speaking about the ParaLions Athlete Search Day, Beijing 2008 Gold Medalist Michael McKillop stated: “It’s great to see the PCI mobilising all the Paralympic sports in order to showcase the opportunity that Paralympic sport provides. I urge all people with disabilities to come along on the day and get involved. It should be a great day out and hopefully we will see some of the people that come along progress to the Irish Team at future Paralympic Games”. Further information is available on www.pcireland.ie * ParaLions is a PCI awareness programme involving the provision of an online resource booklet for young people interested in taking up Paralympic sport which contains a questionnaire to assist the Paralympic Council of Ireland (PCI) in building a database of interested individuals with disabilities. The PCI use this database to channel these individuals to sports they are interested in, and crucially to sports that suit their Paralympic classification profile. **The Paralympic Council of Ireland was founded in 1987 and is responsible for the preparation and management of the Irish team in the lead up to, and at, the Paralympic Games every four years. ***Olympic style games for athletes with a physical disability were first held in Rome in 1960. Today, the Paralympics are elite sport events for athletes with physical and sensory disability. They emphasise the participants’ athletic achievements rather than their disability. The movement has grown dramatically since its first days. The number of athletes participating in Summer Paralympic Games has increased from 400 athletes from 23 countries in Rome in 1960 to 4000 athletes from 153 countries set to compete in Beijing in 2008. For further information: John Fulham, communications@pcireland.ie +353 87 2709182

Title:  KNIGHTS SHOOT DOWN FALCONS Date:   16th March News Details: Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball League Division 1 NI Knights Vs Furness Falcons 15th March 2009 Shankill Leisure Centre Belfast NI Knights hosted Furness Falcons this weekend hoping to repeat their win from the week before. With Falcons only travelling with six players and having only five of them fit to play it was looking good for NI Knights even before the tip. Falcons took the lead and in fact led until half way through the 1st Qtr before NI Knights started to get to grips with the game and raced away to end the Qtr 22-12. This was helped by some good defence but more importantly the outside shooting of McKillop contributed greatly to the lead. The 2nd Qtr saw McKillop continue with the hot hand and some nice fastbreak basketball from Rollston allowed coach Kennedy to run the bench. The guys coming off the bench didn’t disappoint and NI Knights finished the half 38-21. The 3rd Qtr was a dull affair with neither team getting going at all, it saw both teams only register ten points between them. NI Knights got into the game again in the 4th Qtr scoring freely again seeing McCarthy score a few nice baskets while keeping the good defence going, they finished the game 64-28, winning easily. Coach Kennedy said after the game’ It was a good win for us even if we stalled in the 3rd Qtr, but I got to play all ten players and give some of the guys valuable court time. It was particularly pleasing the see DeeBee Steele coming back after so long out of the game.’ Scorers Knights: McKillop 22, Kennedy 16, Rollston 8, Bingham 6, McAleese 2, Young 2, McCarthy 4, Watson 2, Steele 2 Report supplied by Jason Kennedy

Title:  Ulster Swimmers Shine in Sheffield Date:   10th March News Details: Ulster Swimmers Shine in Sheffield The Swim Ulster Junior squad returned from the Nationwide DSE British Junior Championships at the weekend with a haul of 23 medals in total – 10 gold, 8 silver and 5 bronze – plus 4 British Junior records. Top that with the fact that all 11 swimmers turned in personal best performances and you have a great weekend of swimming. Charlotte Hall of Larne Swim Club, and swimming in the Championships for the first time, was in sparkling form in the ‘B’ girls (15 to 18 years of age) returning home with 4 gold medals and British records in the 50 & 100 freestyle, 50 & 100 backstroke. An outstanding performance which she capped by anchoring the girls 4 x 100m freestyle relay to bronze medal position. Her 3 team mates in the relay, Ellen Meldrum (Coleraine), Bethany Firth (Ards) and 10-year-old Namphon Steele (Dungannon) also turned in great swims. A remarkable achievement considering both Bethany and Namphon fall into the younger group ‘A’ events (10 to 14 years of age) and were swimming against girls who were up to 7 years older. Charlotte’s club mate from Larne, James Hamilton was also in winning form bringing home 5 medals in total. James lifted gold in the 400 freestyle, silver in 100 breaststroke, and 3 bronze from 50m breaststroke, 100m freestyle, & 50m freestyle. With great times in all James reaped the rewards of a lot of hard work and dedication since last year’s championships. As did Laurence McGivern (Newry). Another 5 medals came home courtesy of Laurence. Gold’s in the 400m free & 50m free, silvers in 50m & 100m backstroke and bronze in the 100m freestyle saw Laurence complete a great weekend and provide a wonderful role model to the younger swimmers. James MacSorley (City of Belfast) added 3 more medals to the tally with gold in the 50m freestyle and silvers in the 100m free and 50m back. Great swims from a great team player, James always rises to the occasion and is an inspiration to his team mates. As is his sister Eimear MacSorley who picked up 2 gold’s in the 50 & 100m breaststroke. Swims all the more astounding given that she didn’t know up to the last minute if she would be fit enough to swim following recent illness. Gutsy performances from a real competitor. Last of the medal winners, but by no means least, 10-year-old Namphon Steele (Dungannon). Swimming in her first major event and against girls 3 years her senior Namphon stormed to 3 silver medals in the 50m free, and 50m & 100m butterfly. The diminutive Namphon produced 3 amazing swims from one so young and is a great prospect for the future. An increase from 8 medals in 2008 to 23 this year means that Swim Ulster officials at the event were over the moon with the great performances and team spirit that made this a truly great championship.

Title:  NI KNIGHTS pick up 2 away wins Date:   9th March News Details: Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball League Division 1 Furness Falcons Vs NI Knights 7th March 2009 Hoops Centre NI Knights were hosted by Furness Falcons for this fixture. This was the first time NI Knights had played Furness who were to prove to be an unknown quantity. NI Knights started with a zone and this seemed to play to Falcons strengths with Faulkener and Matthews scoring in the first to leave Falcons leading 11-9 at the end of the 1st Qtr. The 2nd Qtr was much the same with Falcons and NI Knights being evenly matched leaving the half time score at 21 each. NI Knights switched to a pressing defence for the 3rd Qtr and this was to provide to be the end of Falcons resistance, with them only registering one score in five minutes of play and indeed eight the whole 3rd Qtr and NI Knights pouring in 24, the Qtr ended 45-29 NI Knights. With a continued pressing defence in the 4th Qtr the game ended 63-39 NI Knights. Coach Kennedy said after the game’ Falcons surprised us with some good players and it was a test for us in the first half. However I think when we shook off the tiredness we played much better in the second half.’ Scorers Knights: Kennedy 24, Rollston 8, Young 8, McKillop 10, Mitchell 6, McAleese 7 Report supplied by Jason Kennedy Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball League Division 1 Everton Greenbank Vs NI Knights 8th March 2009 Greenbank NI Knights second game of the weekend was against the newly named Everton Greenbank. After the stuttering start to the game the day before NI Knights were determined to start much better and they did with McCarthy and McKillop shooting well from the outside in the first half. NI Knights also played much better zone defence which restricted Everton and left the score after the first half 35-13 NI Knights. This allowed coach Kennedy to run in all his players and experiment with different types of defence. The second half was much a repeat of the first with NI Knights dominating the game but for Everton a young Adam Mc Mullan looked a promising player for the future. The game ended 65-29 NI Knights. Captain Rollston was pleased with result and the weekend,’ We knew we should win these two games but you have to come and get the job done, which we did in the end. It was a bit of travelling and we started poorly yesterday but overall im pleased, especially with McCarthy who emerged as a player who can score and execute on the fast break.’ NI Knights now host Furness in two weeks time and will look to secure another win. Scorers Knights: Kennedy 15, Rollston 8, Young 3, McKillop 10, Mitchell 2, McAleese 10, McCarthy 17 Report supplied by Jason Kennedy

Title:  5 Star Disability Sports Challenge Launched Date:   6th March News Details: FIVE STAR DISABILITY SPORTS CHALLENGE Calling all primary five to seven school children! Can you push 100m in a racing wheelchair in 60 seconds? This was one of five sporting challenges issued yesterday by Sports Minister, Gregory Campbell and international footballer, David Healy to primary school children across Northern Ireland. The Five Star Disability Sports Challenge which includes wheelchair racing, wheelchair basketball, boccia, kurling and goalball was jointly launched at W5 by the minister and David. It is part of an innovative education and awareness project, led by Disability Sports NI, aimed at school children of all abilities. The minister said: "The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are just over three years away and with excitement growing, I want to see more disabled and non-disabled children within mainstream primary schools become more active in sport. This is one of the main aims of the new sports strategy, 'Sport Matters', which I will be launching shortly. There is so much to be gained from taking part in sport in terms of health, well-being and enjoyment of life." David Healy said: "It is great to be involved in this new and exciting project. It will give the children the opportunity to meet athletes with a disability and understand the challenges they face, and also encourage them to become more active in sport. With the focus now on the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games lots more people are going to get interested in sport and that is the legacy the games will leave for future generations." Angela Hendra, Chair of Disability Sports NI (DSNI) said:" We are simply delighted with the Five Star Challenge Education Project. We know it will showcase Disability Sport in a very positive way, challenge negative attitudes and will inspire both disabled and non-disabled children to participate and excel in sport." Over the life of the project, DSNI aims to involve at least 65 schools in Northern Ireland and have 13,650 children participate in the programme by March 2013. Each child who takes part in the challenge will receive a 'Five Star Disability Sports Challenge' certificate. The minister continued: "I am extremely proud to announce that Disability Sports Northern Ireland has been awarded the second Inspire Mark in Northern Ireland for the Five Star Disability Sports Challenge which will contribute to the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. Yesterday, children from Hazelwood Integrated Primary School demonstrated their sporting abilities in the five challenges and were the first to be presented with certificates by David and the minister. Earlier in the day the minister had chaired the third meeting of the Northern Ireland 2012 Leadership Group of which David is a member.

Title:  LADY TAVERNER'S 'SPIRIT OF SPORT' Nominations forms now available to download Date:   4th March News Details: Deadline for returned and completed is Friday 24th April 2009 Contact Elaine Reid at DSNI 9038 7062 for further details DOWNLOAD FORM

Title:  2009 SPECIAL SCHOOLS SPORTS HALL ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   25th February News Details: Deadline for entries for the 2 regional competitions closes on Friday 27th Feb. Open to all Special Schools in Northern Ireland. LAGAN VALLEY LEISUREPLEX, LISBURN 10th MARCH 2009 TEMPLEMORE SPORTS COMPLEX, L'DERRY 11th MARCH 2009

Title:  COME & TRY IT EVENT Date:   19th February News Details: ‘Come & Try it’ Event aimed at providing knowledge about some sports which are available to people with physical disabilities or Blind/Partially sighted people. The event will take the form of demonstrations by players/coaches involved in the activities and there will also be an opportunity for those in attendance to try out the activities first hand. The sports being offered have been specifically chosen because there are already participation/competitive opportunities available through local Clubs. DATE: Thursday 26th February 2009 TIME: 4-6pm & 7-9pm VENUE: Belfast Indoor Tennis Centre, Ormeau Embankment COST: FREE ATTENDANCE: You can either confirm your attendance through 1 of the contacts below or simply turn up on the day. You don’t have to attend for the whole 2 hrs of each block AIMED AT: People with physical disabilities, Blind/Partially Sighted people, People with permanent sports injuries, Health professionals, sports development officers, sports coaches also feel free to bring along family or friends ORGANISERS: This is a joint initiative between Belfast Community Sports Development Network, RNIB and Disability Sports NI. Rep’s from the organisers will be on hand to provide guidance and further information ACTIVITIES: Wheelchair Tennis, Boccia, Disability Badminton, Goalball, Hand Cycling, Wheelchair Basketball, Tandem Cycling & New Age Kurling CONTACTS: Kevin Gamble – BCSDN, Kevin@usdt.co.uk or Keith Lound – RNIB, 90329373 keith.lound@rnib.org.uk or Aubrey Bingham – DSNI, 9038 7062, abingham@dsni.co.uk

Title:  NI SENIOR BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009 Date:   3rd February News Details: 25 teams from all over Northern Ireland descended on the Antrim Forum to compete in the NI Senior Boccia Championships. To encourage more people with disabilities to take part in sports/physical Recreation, the 3 player had to have at least 1 player with a disability. All teams who attended were guaranteed at least 3 matches and after several closely fought group matches, the QUARTER-FINAL line-up was: GIFTED 2 MY GANG 6 MANOR 'A' 3 WILLOWBANK '2' 1 VOTE VICTORS 3 GLOUCESTER PK 'A' 2 JETS 5 FINAGHY FIGHTERS 2 SEMI-FINALS MY GANG 5 MANOR 'A' 4 VOTE VICTORS 4 JETS 2 3rd/4th PLAY-OFF MANOR 'A' 4 JETS 3 FINAL VOTE VICTORS 0 MY GANG 4 Well done to all the players involved and thank you to Oran Keenan - Antrim Borough Council Mayor, Janine Harvey - Antrim Borough Council Sports Development Dept., the pupils from Northern Regional College sports studies class and Elaine, Anita & Joanne from DSNI

Title:  HANDCYCLING DEVELOPMENT DAY IN DUBLIN Date:   3rd February News Details: Hand-cycle Workshop 21st February 2009 ALSAA Sports Centre (Near Dublin Airport) Programme Schedule 10:00 – 11:00 Registration and View and fit test hand-cycles on show 11:00 – 11:15 Welcome and Introduction to Cycling Ireland Handcycling Pathway By Denis Toomey, Chairman Cycling Ireland Disability Commission 11:15 – 11:45 Hand-cycling Classification and High Performance Pathway By Didier Simons, UCI International Classifier, "Development and Solidarity" UCI Paracycling project. 11:45 – 12:15 The latest stories from Handcycling UK and Handcycling Training Programmes By Dr Paul M. Smith (PhD), Senior Lecturer & BASES Accredited Exercise Physiologist (Research), Cardiff School of Sport 12:15 – 12:30 Irish Wheelchair Association Sports - Support to developing Handcycling in Ireland By Jean Daly, Sports Development Officer, IWA Association- Sport 12:30 – 13:00 Questions and Answers 13:00 to 14:00 Lunch Break 14:00 to 16:00 Handcycling trials on track (weather permitting) and Classification Assessment Jean Daly Sports Development Officer IWA Association- Sport Cork City ROC The Granary Bessboro Blackrock Cork M: 0871371333 Tel: 021 4350282 Fax: 021 4350288 Web: www.iwasport.com

Title:  ADAPT NI - ACCESS GRANTS AVAILABLE Date:   2nd February News Details: The ADAPT NI Grant Scheme offers £500 - £2000 for improving physical access to venues facilitating the participation of people with disabilities in social activities. Applications might include: - Auxiliary Aids - induction or infra-red hearing systems, text phones - Facilities - Signage, non-standard format information and communication support - Essential adaptations - Ramps, handrails, lifts, sanitary facilities CLOSING DAT 4pm 23rd FEBRUARY 2009 email info@adaptni.org Telephone 028 9023 1211 Fax 028 9024 0878 Text Phone 028 9023 4391 Post ADAPT NI Cathedral Quarter Managed Workspace 109-113 Royal Avenue Belfast

Title:  Multi-Skills Clubs Starting in Belfast Date:   13th January News Details: Brian's Belfast Lions - Multi-Skills Clubs will be starting in Belfast. The sessions are organised through Belfast City Councils Sports Development Dept. and are seeking to provide a fun and safe environment were kids of primary school age will learn physical activity fundamentals such as Running, throwing, catching, striking etc All the sessions are open to kids with disabilities as well as non-disabled kids. The coaches taking the sessions all have experience in providing activities for people with disabilities. To book your childs place on 1 of the 8 week blocks, just simply contact the appropriate centre and register. All Sessions are split into 2 age related blocks: 3.30 - 4.15pm - 6-8 yr olds and 4.15 - 5.00pm - 9-11 yr olds Session Dates: Mon 26th Jan '09 - Olympia LC Tue 27th Jan '09 - Shankill LC Wed 28th Jan '09 - Andersonstown LC Thu 29th Jan '09 - Ozone Centre Mon 2nd Feb - Olympia LC Tue 3rd Feb - Shankill LC Wed 4th Feb - Andersonstown LC Thu 5th Feb - Ozone Centre Mon 9th Feb - Olympia LC Tue 10th Feb - Shankill LC Wed 11th Feb - Andersonstown LC Thu 12th Feb - Ozone Centre Mon 16th Feb - Olympia LC Tue 17th Feb - Shankill LC Wed 18th Feb - Andersonstown LC Thu 19th Feb - Ozone Centre Mon 23rd Feb - Olympia LC Tue 24th Feb - Shankill LC Wed 25th Feb - Andersonstown LC Thu 26th Feb - Ozone Centre Mon 2nd Mar - Olympia LC Tue 3rd Mar - Shankill LC Wed 4th Mar - Andersonstown LC Thu 5th Mar - Ozone Centre Mon 9th Mar - Olympia LC Tue 10th Mar - Shankill LC Wed 11th Mar - Andersonstown LC Thu 12th Mar - Ozone Centre Mon 16th Mar - Olympia LC Tue 17th Mar - Shankill LC Wed 18th Mar - Andersonstown LC Thu 19th Mar - Ozone Centre

Title:  NI SENIOR BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009 Date:   13th January News Details: The NI Senior Boccia Championships 2009 will be held on Tuesday 3rd February 2009 at the Antrim Forum Sports Centre: Starting at 10:45am Finishing at 1:30pm This competition is suitable for all levels from beginner to experienced players. Teams should be 3 players (at least 1 of which must have a disability) £5 entry fee per team All matches played on competition sized boccia courts. For further information contact DSNI 9038 7062 or email@dsni.co.uk Team Entry Form Senior Boccia Rules

Title:  Knights Duo Claim GB Place Date:   22nd December News Details: After a rigorous selection process Knights players Paul McKillop and Matthew Rollston have been named in the GB Senior Wheelchair Basketball Squad. The duo, who currently play on the Knights senior squad in the GB league, will begin training with their new team mates in January as they begin preparations for the 2010 World Championships. The GB squad are the current Paralympic bronze medal winners after beating the USA in the 3rd/4th place play offs in Beijing.

Title:  MENCAP FOOTBALL TRIALS Date:   5th December News Details: National 11-a-side Football Trials Date: Sunday, 15 February 2009 Venue: Warwick University Time: 11:00am to 3:30pm Nominations are invited from footballers wishing to take part in the National Mencap football trials at Warwick University on Sunday, 3 February 2008. Fifteen players will be selected to represent Mencap in Switzerland for a European football tournament. The squad will fly to Geneva on Thursday 28 May and return on Monday 1 June 2009. There will also be a weekend training camp in South Wales on 1 to 3 May to prepare the squad for the event. Further details of the training camp will be given to players selected on the day at Warwick. The expected cost to players will be £240.00 which covers the cost of the training camp and all travel and accommodation in Geneva. Players selected should be prepared to pay a non-refundable deposit of £70.00 and be able to confirm their place within seven days of the trials date. The team selected for next year’s Geneva tournament will be made up predominantly of Novice level players. Please bear this in mind when nominating your footballers. Eligibility: o Players must be a member of Mencap or belong to a Mencap affiliated group o Players must have a learning disability. o Players must be male and over 16 years of age. o Players should participate at a Novice ability level. Clubs may nominate up to 8 players to participate in the trials. The closing date for nominations is 23 January 2009. After this date, any spare places will be offered to teams that have already Nominated. Nominations forms should be completed and returned to the address below; Directions and maps to follow. Kathy Anstey Mencap Sport 6A Calder Vale Road Wakefield, W Yorkshire WF1 5PE or e-mail sport@mencap.org.uk by Friday, 23 January 2009. National 11-a-side Football Trials

Title:  ROSSMAR TAKE NI SPECIAL SCHOOLS BOCCIA HONOURS Date:   28th November News Details: NI SPECIAL SCHOOLS BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008 17 teams from Special Schools across NI competed in the Annual Boccia Championships held at the Antrim Forum Sports Centre on 27th Nov. The event was jointly organised by Disability Sports NI & Antrim Borough Council’s Sports Development Dept. saw some exciting battles on the courts as the teams battled to be the Special Schools Boccia Champions. After a couple of action packed hours, the competition was down to the knockout stages with 8 teams left in contention. The 2 teams from Rossmar School (Limavady) ensured that the 2008 trophy was going to the North-West as the Rossmar teams won both semi-finals and so battled it out in the final for the bragging rights. In a closely fought final the Arsenal Rossmar team pulled out the winning shots to take the winners trophy with a 4-1 victory. In the 3rd/4th Play Off the Aim 4 the Jack team (Donard School, Banbridge) edged out the Double Zeroes (Mitchell House, Belfast) RESULTS Quarter – Finals United Rossmar 4 Dolphins 1 Double Zeroes 5 Cedar Lodge 1 Boccia All-Stars 0 Arsenal Rossmar 3 Loughan Heroes 0 Aim 4 the Jack 5 Semi-Finals United Rossmar 3 Double Zeroes 1 Arsenal Rossmar 4 Aim 4 the Jack 3 3rd/4th Play-Off Aim 4 the Jack 4 Double Zeroes 3 FINAL Arsenal Rossmar 4 United Rossmar 1 Boccia is a bowling game played from a seated position, on a Badminton sized court and is played right up to Paralympic level. The game is based on accuracy and subtlety rather than strength and power and was first developed for people with cerebral palsy but is now played widespread by disabled and non-disabled people. For further information on Boccia – Contact Disability Sports NI 90387062 or email@dsni.co.uk

Title:  RESULTS - NI NATIONWIDE SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008 Date:   13th November News Details: Nationwide NI Swimming Championships Photos If you would like to view and purchase any of the photo’s taken by DE Photos at the Swimming Championships on Saturday 8th November 08 please log onto their website at www.DEphoto.co.uk For the username and password please contact Elaine at the DSNI office RESULTS Event 1 Mixed 25M Backstroke S1-S6 1 Flanagan, Patrick Banbridge SOC 28.00 2 Marshall, Luke 41.31 3 Burns, Austen Newry 1:04.85 4 Quinn, Naoise Newry 1:25.28 Event 2 Mixed 25M Backstroke S7-13 1 Steele, Namphon 22.66 2 Cunningham, Edel Armagh SOC 34.96 Event 3 Mixed 25M Backstroke S14 & S15 1 McCarron, Conor Handson Swimming 21.71 2 Walker, Aden 21.84 3 Firth, Bethany 22.03 4 Gillen, Ryan Erne School 24.50 5 Ross, Emma Splash & Dash 25.60 6 Caldwell, Nathan Splash & Dash 26.25 7 Carlisle, Emma Ballymoney SOC 27.06 8 Horner, Edward T’field House Sch 27.93 9 Moore, Dale Armagh SOC 28.90 10 McDowell, Aaron Splash & Dash 30.03 11 Scott, Dale Splash & Dash 30.43 12 Warke, Megan Ballymoney SOC 30.65 13 Field, Paul 31.28 14 Craig, Mark T’field School 31.80 15 Aiken, Rachel Splash & Dash 32.00 16 Campbell, Sean Splash & Dash 33.49 17 Campbell, Jonathan Ballymoney SOC 33.86 18 Crawford, Matthew Splash & Dash 34.68 *19 Traynor, Agnes Erne School 36.00 *19 Breen, Ciaran Armagh SOC 36.00 21 Wharry, David Sharks Club 36.10 22 Lindsay, Andrew Dolphins Club 38.46 23 Davidson, Matthew Sharks Club 40.89 24 McKeown, Sean Sharks Club 41.12 25 Nolan, Kate Erne School 42.80 26 Magee, Katrina Newry 42.93 27 Chalmers, Emma Splash & Dash 43.40 28 Ferguson, Gillian Dolphins Club 43.65 29 Fillis, Jonathan Splash & Dash 43.84 30 Welsh, Andrew Dolphins Club 50.82 31 Madden, Cathal Riverside School 52.03 32 Neill, Peter Sharks Club 1:00.96 33 Murphy, Ronan Sharks Club 1:02.00 34 Sturgeon, Caileen Dolphins Club 1:14.40 35 Valllelly, Sean Ballymoney SOC 2:55.50 Event 4 Mixed 25M Breaststroke S1-S6 1 Marshall, Luke 48.35 2 Burns, Austen Newry 1:01.27 3 Quinn, Naoise Newry 1:28.84 Event 6 Mixed 25M Breaststroke S14 & S15 1 Emmet, Robert Newry 26.35 2 Haughey, Keiran Arvalee School 27.26 3 O'Neill, Joe Arvalee School 27.90 4 Timpson, Michael Arvalee School 28.59 5 Nugent, Patrick Arvalee School 28.78 6 Haughian, Joyce Newry 28.81 7 Carroll, Gary Newry 29.15 8 Walker, Aden 31.40 9 Irwin, Rebecca Arvalee School 31.46 10 Moore, Dale Armagh SOC 31.53 11 Firth, Bethany 31.68 12 O'Hara, Sinead Erne School 32.96 13 Craig, Mark T’field Sch 33.31 14 Horner, Edward T’field Sch 33.65 15 Sturgeon, Caileen Dolphins Club 34.60 16 McClorey, Connor Newry 35.62 17 Galbrath, Natalie Arvalee School 38.50 18 Breen, Ciaran Armagh SOC 39.06 19 Byrne, Michael Dolphins Club 39.25 20 Murray, Thomas Swimability 40.00 21 Wilson, Martin Arvalee School 40.16 22 Hammaho, Susan 41.50 23 Nolan, Kate Erne School 42.37 24 Eubanks, Paul Banbridge SOC 43.68 25 O'Hare,Ruaidhri T’field School 43.78 26 Lindsay, Andrew Dolphins Club 43.93 27 McCaugherty, James Arvalee School 45.53 28 Ferguson, Gillian Dolphins Club 55.78 29 O'Donnell, Conor Arvalee School 1:02.06 30 McCooey, Ashley Arvalee School 1:04.68 31 Megarry, Simon Dolphins Club 1:06.25 32 Neill, Peter Sharks Club 1:11.66 33 O'Neill, Nathan Arvalee School 1:11.76 34 Magee, Katrina Newry 1:15.93 Event 7 Mixed 25M Butterfly S1-S6 1 Marshall, Luke 54.69 Event 8 Mixed 25M Butterfly S7-13 1 Steele, Namphon 18.12 Event 9 Mixed 25M Butterfly S14 & S15 1 McCarron, Conor Handson Swimming 21.37 2 Murray, Kevin Armagh SOC 24.62 3 Carroll, Gary Newry 26.16 4 Cahill, Manus Newry 26.21 5 Byrne, Michael Dolphins Club 40.87 Event 10 Mixed 25M Freestyle S1-S6 1 Flanagan, Patrick Banbridge SOC 24.50 2 Marshall, Luke 47.69 3 Burns, Austen Newry 1:00.72 Event 11 Mixed 25M Freestyle S7-13 1 Archibald, Ryan Splash & Dash 17.06 2 Steele, Namphon 17.50 3 O'Mahony, Daniel 27.18 4 Cunningham, Edel Armagh SOC 35.49 5 Maxwell, Stephen 37.65 Event 12 Mixed 25M Freestyle S14 & S15 1 Emmet, Robert Newry 18.18 2 Firth, Bethany 18.31 3 O'Neill, Nathan Arvalee School 18.93 4 McKenna, Aoife Ballymoney SOC 19.35 5 Carroll, Gary Newry 19.46 6 Caldwell, Nathan Splash & Dash 19.56 7 Scott, Dale Splash & Dash 19.81 8 O'Neill, Joe Arvalee School 21.23 9 Campbell, Jonathan Ballymoney SOC 21.37 10 Craig, Mark T’field School 21.81 11 O'Hare,Ruaidhri T’field School 22.00 12 Gillen, Ryan Erne School 22.24 13 Nugent, Patrick Arvalee Sch 22.59 14 Haughian, Joyce Newry 22.84 15 Campbell, Sean Splash & Dash 23.16 16 Casey, Shae Riverside School 23.61 17 Doherty, Daniel 24.28 18 McDowell, Aaron Splash & Dash 24.31 19 Cahill, Manus Newry 24.46 20 Warke, Megan Ballymoney SOC 24.78 21 Eubanks, Paul Banbridge SOC 25.18 *22 Cunning, Kevin Splash & Dash 25.31 *22 Ross, Emma Splash & Dash 25.31 24 Moore, Dale Armagh SOC 25.93 25 Fillis, Jonathan Splash & Dash 26.00 26 McNicholl, Paul Ballymoney SOC 26.50 27 Galbrath, Natalie Arvalee School 26.62 28 Lindsay, Andrew Dolphins Club 26.68 29 Aiken, Rachel Splash & Dash 27.84 30 Wharry, David Sharks Club 28.03 31 Horner, Edward T’field School 28.08 32 Stewart, Ross Erne School 28.19 33 Chalmers, Emma Splash & Dash 28.71 34 Crawford, Matthew Splash & Dash 29.06 35 O'Hare, Hanna Newry 29.43 36 Hammaho, Susan 29.62 37 Prestley, Carla Arvalee School 29.68 38 Byrne, Michael Dolphins Club 29.70 39 Breen, Ciaran Armagh SOC 31.08 40 Field, Paul Michael 31.91 41 Crorey, Robert Banbridge SOC 32.06 42 Roulston, Jamie Arvalee School 32.34 43 Magee, Katrina Newry 32.75 44 Irwin, Rebecca Arvalee School 33.00 45 O'Hara, Sinead Erne School 34.15 46 Goad, Peter Swimability 34.53 47 Murray, Thomas Swimability 35.37 48 O'Donnell, Conor Arvalee School 35.62 49 McGuigan, Stephen Ballymoney SOC 37.60 50 McKee, Christoper Ballymoney SOC 38.78 51 Ferguson, Gillian Dolphins Club 39.12 *52 Lunney, Tony Banbridge SOC 39.71 *52 Wilson, Jessica Erne School 39.71 54 Sturgeon, Caileen Dolphins Club 39.98 55 Nolan, Kate Erne School 40.65 56 McIlhagger, Lisah Ballymoney SOC 40.71 57 McCooey, Ashley Arvalee School 41.68 58 Evans, Jonathan Newry 42.27 59 Greggory, Fergal Newry 44.96 60 McCaugherty, James Arvalee Sch 46.09 61 Madden, Cathal Riverside School 46.70 62 Barron, Thomas Riverside School 47.96 63 McMeekin, Samuel Ballymoney SOC 48.87 64 Connery, Jill Banbridge SOC 1:00.31 65 Cooke, Charlie Ballymoney SOC 1:05.01 66 Murphy, Ronan Sharks Club 1:09.12 67 Christie, Benjamin Ballymoney SOC 1:14.68 68 Downey, Aoife Newry 1:15.21 69 Megarry, Simon Dolphins Club 1:18.56 70 Valllelly, Sean Ballymoney SOC 2:40.18 Event 13 Mixed 50M Backstroke S1-S6 1 MacSorley, James 57.33 2 MacSorley, Eimear 1:28.32 3 Johnston, Adam 1:37.61 Event 14 Mixed 50M Backstroke S7-13 1 McGivern, Lawerence 34.64 2 Hall, Charlotte 36.16 3 Goldrick, Aggie 48.72 4 Kenny, Claire 1:03.83 5 Cunningham, Edel Armagh SOC 1:20.43 Event 15 Mixed 50M Backstroke S14 & S15 1 Morris, Conor Erne School 46.68 2 Meldrum, Ellen Splash & Dash 47.96 3 Connelly, Peader Newry 48.10 4 Leckey, Jack Lisburn 49.07 5 Martin, Adam Ballymoney SOC 50.32 6 Murray, Kevin Armagh SOC 53.27 7 Walker, Aden 55.41 8 Tyrrell, Brian Sunshine Club 56.35 9 Hawe, Danielle Armagh SOC 56.72 10 McKenna, Aoife Ballymoney SOC 57.38 11 Ross, Emma Splash & Dash 1:01.02 12 Doherty, Lee Erne School 1:01.25 13 Gillen, Ryan Erne School 1:02.90 14 Field, Paul 1:05.43 15 Aiken, Rachel Splash & Dash 1:06.37 16 Caldwell, Nathan Splash & Dash 1:07.56 17 Carlisle, Emma Ballymoney SOC 1:11.15 18 Haughian, Joyce Newry 1:11.35 19 Moore, Dale Armagh SOC 1:11.99 20 Campbell, Sean Splash & Dash 1:15.72 21 Penney, Mark Sharks Club 1:16.27 22 Dickson, Thomas Sharks Club 1:16.78 23 Warke, Megan Ballymoney SOC 1:19.28 24 Traynor, Agnes Erne School 1:19.78 25 Greggory, Fergal Newry 1:49.08 26 Evans, Jonathan Newry 2:12.01 Event 16 Mixed 50M Breaststroke S1-S6 1 MacSorley, James 1:12.60 2 Scully, James 1:13.49 3 MacSorley, Eimear 1:46.88 4 Johnston, Adam 2:05.85 5 Burns, Austen Newry 2:24.31 Event 17 Mixed 50M Breaststroke S7-13 1 Browne, Gareth Splash & Dash 39.63 2 Goldrick, Aggie 1:02.20 Event 18 Mixed 50M Breaststroke S14 & S15 1 Hamilton, James Sharks Club 40.75 2 Morris, Conor Erne School 51.93 3 Gordon, Barry Armagh SOC 53.89 4 Timpson, Michael Arvalee School 59.33 5 Leckey, Jack Lisburn Club 59.98 6 Grant, Lewis 1:00.43 7 O'Kane, Gary Sunshine Club 1:01.77 8 Murray, Kevin Armagh SOC 1:02.78 9 Emmet, Robert Newry 1:04.88 10 Gordon, Francis Armagh SOC 1:07.85 11 Fegan, Denise Banbridge SOC 1:23.93 12 McCooey, Ashley Arvalee Sch 2:07.12 Event 19 Mixed 50M Butterfly S1-S6 1 Cummings, Johnny 46.21 Event 20 Mixed 50M Butterfly S7-13 1 Keane, Ellen IWA 34.76 2 Steele, Namphon 42.08 Event 21 Mixed 50M Butterfly S14 & S15 1 Connelly, Peader Newry 49.56 2 Gordon, Gemma Armagh SOC 53.89 3 Cahill, Manus Newry 58.30 Event 22 Mixed 50M Freestyle S1-S6 1 Cummings, Johnny 39.73 2 Scully, James 44.14 3 MacSorley, James 47.14 4 Flanagan, Patrick Banbridge SOC 58.79 5 Johnston, Adam 1:20.59 6 MacSorley, Eimear 1:32.58 Event 23 Mixed 50M Freestyle S7-13 1 Hall, Charlotte 29.98 2 McGivern, Lawerence 30.54 3 Browne, Gareth Splash & Dash 32.94 4 Owen, Dean 39.03 5 Archibald, Ryan Splash & Dash 39.05 6 Goldrick, Aggie 43.84 7 Kenny, Claire 57.53 8 O'Mahony, Daniel 1:02.75 9 Cunningham, Edel Armagh SOC 1:16.73 10 Maxwell, Stephen 1:49.80 Event 24 Mixed 50M Freestyle S14 & S15 1 Bell, Matthew 27.07 2 Hamilton, James Sharks Club 32.47 3 Meldrum, Ellen Splash & Dash 37.25 4 Morris, Conor Erne School 39.72 5 Gordon, Francis Armagh SOC 39.96 6 O'Neill, Joe Arvalee School 41.97 7 Timpson, Michael Arvalee School 42.61 8 Grant, Lewis 42.74 9 Firth, Bethany 42.93 10 Carroll, Gary Newry 43.59 11 Gordon, Gemma Armagh SOC 44.71 12 O'Neill, Nathan Arvalee Sch 44.76 13 Murray, Kevin Armagh SOC 44.92 14 Doherty, Lee Erne Sch 44.97 15 McKenna, Aoife Ballymoney SOC 45.97 16 Scott, Dale Splash & Dash 47.45 17 Martin, Adam Ballymoney SOC 48.88 18 Tyrrell, Brian Sunshine Club 49.74 19 Caldwell, Nathan Splash & Dash 51.42 20 Campbell, Sean Splash & Dash 52.03 21 Haughian, Joyce Newry 52.28 22 Campbell, Jonathan Ballymoney SOC 53.63 23 Gillen, Ryan Erne School 53.65 24 Wilson, Martin Arvalee School 56.26 25 Penney, Mark Sharks Club 57.03 26 Warke, Megan Ballymoney SOC 58.21 27 Lindsay, Andrew Dolphins Club 59.52 28 McDowell, Aaron Splash & Dash 59.63 29 Cunning, Kevin Splash & Dash 1:01.33 30 Ross, Emma Splash & Dash 1:01.53 31 Nugent, Patrick Arvalee School 1:02.03 32 Carlisle, Emma Ballymoney SOC 1:04.09 33 Eubanks, Paul Banbridge SOC 1:04.28 34 Aiken, Rachel Splash & Dash 1:05.26 35 Dickson, Thomas Sharks Club 1:06.87 36 Fillis, Jonathan Splash & Dash 1:08.89 37 Field, Paul 1:09.32 38 Hammaho, Susan 1:11.02 39 Crorey, Robert Banbridge SOC 1:12.42 40 Traynor, Agnes Erne School 1:13.55 41 Irwin, Rebecca Arvalee School 1:14.37 42 O'Hare, Hanna Newry 1:14.75 43 Chalmers, Emma Splash & Dash 1:14.89 44 Byrne, Michael Dolphins Club 1:15.82 45 Crawford, Matthew Splash & Dash 1:17.13 46 McNicholl, Paul Ballymoney SOC 1:17.49 47 McCooey, Ashley Arvalee School 1:18.24 48 O'Hara, Sinead Erne School 1:23.26 49 McKeown, Sean Sharks Club 1:29.25 50 McGuigan, Stephen Ballymoney SOC 1:30.92 51 Sturgeon, Caileen Dolphins Club 1:32.25 52 Greggory, Fergal Newry 1:44.00 53 Ferguson, Gillian Dolphins Club 1:44.07 54 Evans, Jonathan Newry 1:44.78 55 McIlhagger, Lisah Ballymoney SOC 1:44.93 56 Davidson, Matthew Sharks Club 1:45.83 57 McKee, Chris Ballymoney SOC 1:47.11 58 Neill, Peter Sharks Club 1:53.64 59 Nolan, Kate Erne School 1:59.27 60 Cooke, Charlie Ballymoney SOC 2:55.35 Event 25 Mixed 100M Backstroke S1-S6 1 Cummings, Johnny 1:32.99 Event 26 Mixed 100M Backstroke S7-13 1 Hall, Charlotte 1:13.26 2 McGivern, Lawerence 1:15.05 3 Keane, Ellen IWA 1:23.20 Event 27 Mixed 100M Backstroke S14 & S15 1 Leckey, Jack Lisburn Club 1:54.77 2 Gordon, Francis Armagh SOC 1:57.86 3 Martin, Adam Ballymoney SOC 1:59.28 4 Walker, Aden 2:05.54 5 Gordon, Barry Armagh SOC 2:13.03 6 Doherty, Lee Erne School 2:24.95 7 Hawe, Danielle Armagh SOC 2:36.99 Event 28 Mixed 100M Breaststroke S1-S6 1 Cummings, Johnny 2:02.75 2 Scully, James 2:47.03 Event 29 Mixed 100M Breaststroke S7-13 1 Keane, Ellen IWA 1:28.58 2 Browne, Gareth Splash & Dash 1:30.29 Event 30 Mixed 100M Breaststroke S14 & S15 1 Hamilton, James Sharks Club 1:28.11 2 Connelly, Peader Newry 1:57.80 3 Gordon, Barry Armagh SOC 2:11.09 4 Gordon, Gemma Armagh SOC 2:18.58 5 O'Kane, Gary Sunshine Club 2:32.36 6 Grant, Lewis 2:54.51 Event 33 Mixed 100M Butterfly S14 & S15 1 Keane, Ellen IWA 1:21.35 2 Meldrum, Ellen Splash & Dash 1:53.73 3 Cahill, Manus Newry 2:17.49 Event 34 Mixed 100M Freestyle S1-S6 1 Scully, James 1:41.13 2 MacSorley, James 1:42.17 3 Johnston, Adam 2:54.35 4 MacSorley, Eimear 3:14.31 Event 35 Mixed 100M Freestyle S7-13 1 Hall, Charlotte 1:04.34 2 McGivern, Lawerence 1:06.80 3 Browne, Gareth Splash & Dash 1:15.45 4 Owen, Dean 1:23.72 5 Archibald, Ryan Splash & Dash 1:26.30 6 O'Mahony, Daniel 2:19.11 Event 36 Mixed 100M Freestyle S14 & S15 1 Hamilton, James Sharks Club 1:12.96 2 Connelly, Peader Newry 1:27.43 3 Gordon, Francis Armagh SOC 1:32.56 4 McCarron, Conor Handson 1:33.72 5 Hawe, Danielle Armagh SOC 1:46.72 6 Gordon, Gemma Armagh SOC 1:47.21 7 McKenna, Aoife Ballymoney SOC 1:48.59 8 Gordon, Barry Armagh SOC 1:49.01 9 Grant, Lewis 1:49.83 10 Martin, Adam Ballymoney SOC 1:55.07 11 Doherty, Lee Erne School 1:58.22 12 Fegan, Denise Banbridge SOC 2:31.47 13 Hammaho, Susan 2:47.74 14 Magee, Katrina Newry 3:11.81 Event 37 Mixed 100M Freestyle Relay Multi-Disability 1 Newry A 1:10.62 2 Splash & Dash A 1:13.15 3 Erne School A 1:19.65 4 Armagh SOC A 1:21.56 5 Ballymoney SOC A 1:38.59 6 Sharks Club A 1:41.59 7 Splash & Dash B 1:44.53 8 Splash & Dash C 1:51.44 9 Newry B 1:53.56 10 Armagh SOC B 1:56.00 11 Erne School B 2:35.04 12 Sharks Club B 3:14.90 13 Newry D 4:54.75

Title:  KNIGHTS CRUISE TO VICTORY IN SHEFFIELD Date:   13th November News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club came away from their weekend fixture v Sheffield Steelers II with a morale boosting victory under their belts. Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball League Division 1 Sheffield Steelers II Vs NI Knights 9th Nov 2008 - Sheffield This was only the second game of the season for NI Knights and they hoped to get the first win after narrowly losing to Wolverhampton last month. However Sheffield would provide a different challenge for NI Knights. NI Knights set out to press Sheffield from the start with the same starting five as last game and this proved to be a good tactic as they scored 8 unanswered points before Wild registered the first score for Sheffield. The remainder of the 1st Qtr saw baskets traded and ended 18-14 to NI Knights, but with Mitchell picking up three fouls NI Knights were forced to make a change of line up. A different set of players hit the court at the start of the 2nd Qtr with Young and McCarthy replacing Kennedy and Mitchell. This was to leave NI Knights open to the height of Sheffield but meant NI Knights would be much quicker and could continue with their press. Rollston and McKillop terrorised Sheffield with their quickness and some continued excellent shooting from McKillop assisted by McAleese saw NI Knights score 10 points without reply at one point and finished the half 37-27 to the good. The pace of the game was to tell in the 2nd half with Sheffield only scoring 7 points in the entire half while McKillop continued with the hot hand scoring almost at will. All NI Knights players saw minutes on court with Odgers coming on in the 4th Qtr and keeping the good work of the defence going and even managed to float in a nice basket from the middle of the key. The game ended 61-34 to NI Knights Scorers Knights: McKillop 31, McAleese 12, Kennedy 6, Rollston 6, Young 2, Odgers 2 Mitchell 2 Next action for the Knights is in the Irish League on Saturday 15th Nov at the IWA, Dublin for 1st Division teams and then on Sunday 16th Nov, at the same venue, for 2nd Division teams.

Title:  CEARA SCHOOL & MITCHELL HOUSE SCHOOL LIFT NEW AGE KURLING HONOURS Date:   7th November News Details: Nearly 40 teams from around Northern Ireland took part in the NI SPECIAL SCHOOLS NEW AGE KURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS, which took place at Antrim Forum Sports Centre yesterday. The Competition was split into Primary & secondary sections with lots of close group matches before the knock-out stages. In the Primary section, Ceara Hawks (Lurgan), Riverside (Antrim), Harberton Heroes(Belfast & Killard Hippos (Newtownards) all made it through to the Semi-Final stage: CEARA HAWKS 2 RIVERSIDE 1 HARBERTON HEROES 0 KILLARD HIPPOS 2 3rd/4th PLAY-OFF RIVERSIDE 1 HARBERTON HEROES 0 FINAL CEARA HAWKS 2 KILLARD HIPPOS 0 In the Secondary sections after the group matches, 8 teams had qualified for the Quarter-Final stage: KYLES KINGS 1 ROLLING STONES 3 KILRONAN KURLERS 0 DONARD KURLERS 2 LOUGHAN 1 GLENVEAGH MIGHTY DUCKS 0 MITCHELL NEW AGE CHAMPIONS 3 KNOCKEVIN 'B' 1 SEMI-FINALS ROLLING STONES 1 LOUGHAN 4 DONARD KURLERS 3 MITCHELL NEW AGE CHAMPIONS 4 3rd/4th PLAY-OFF KYLES KINGS 3 KNOCKEVIN 'B' 0 FINAL MITCHELL NEW AGE CHAMPIONS 4 LOUGHAN 1

Title:  IRISH NATIONAL SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS ON SAT 29th NOV '08 Date:   6th November News Details: Irish National Championships will take place on Saturday 29th November in the National Aquatic Centre, Dublin 15 DOWNLOAD FORM>>> Some important information to note; • Competition will run from 11.00am – 1.00pm on Saturday • Registration will take place from 10.00am • Entry Fee is €15.00 for Seniors and €10.00 for Juniors (Cheques & Postal Orders should be made payable to IWA-Sport) • Electronic Versions of the entry form are available online at www.iwasport.com • Completed forms can be emailed to auveen.wilson@iwa.ie • This will be a Long course competition (50 metres) All participants must be proficient swimmers over 50m • Irish Anti-Doping rules will be enforced at this competition. If you are for medical reasons taking a substance which is banned on the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) banned list or are using a method banned by WADA, please complete a Therapeutic Use (TUE). These forms are available on request from the sports office. • As with all tournaments and competitions all members of IWA-Sport are expected to uphold our Code of Ethics and Good Conduct • Only persons who have completed and returned the Photography Consent Form to the office will be permitted to take photos at the event • Strict Closing date for Receipt of entries is 14th November 2008 • Please note that manual timing will only be available at this event • Late Entries will not be accepted under any circumstance DOWNLOAD FORM>>>

Title:  2012 British Paralympics Website Date:   31st October News Details: Log on to www.bp2012.co.uk for information, videos and contacts regarding the Paralympic Games in 2012

Title:  Under 15's do Northern Ireland Proud with a 3rd PLACE finish at UK REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   29th October News Details: The NORTHERN IRELAND Under 15's squad have just returned from the UK Regional Junior Wheelchair Basketball Championships with a very creditable 3rd place under their belts ..... Results Group Matches East Midlands 10 Northern Ireland 15 Yorkshire 23 Northern Ireland 15 Northern Ireland 16 West Midlands 8 Semi-Final Northern Ireland 11 North West England 12 3rd/4th Play-Off Northern Ireland 13 East England 6 Well done to: Conn & Owen Nagle, James & Eimear MacSorley, Cameron Campbell, Padraic Farrell, Adam Bamford, Jack Agnew and Coach David McAleese for doing Northern Ireland proud. To put this result into some sort of perspective: The NI team had the youngest average age in the competition and were all from 1 club whereas all the other regions pick the best junior players from several clubs in their area.

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND SPECIAL POOL FESTIVAL 2008 Date:   27th October News Details: The NI Special Pool Festival will take place from 17th - 20th November 2008 at the Lodge Hotel, Coleraine. The Festival was introduced in 1993 with 32 players competing. In the intervening years the annual event has grown dramatically in numbers with over 400 individuals competing in the 2007 event on 14 specially installed pool tables. Originally set up as an event for People with Learning Difficulties only, it now incorporates competitions for those with physical disabilities and also mental health problems. For further festival information Contact: Trevor Harte 7035 6309 / 078 1443 2753

Title:  FOUR NATIONS DISABILITY BADMINTON COMPETITION Date:   23rd October News Details: The 4 Nations Pan-Disability Badminton Championships will take place on Saturday 22nd - Sunday 23rd November 2008 at Lisburn Racquets Club. For full details Contact: Tracey Hughes on 07890229135 OR 02892 588544

Title:  BADMINTON TASTER SESSIONS IN LISBURN Date:   20th October News Details: ULSTER BRANCH BADMINTON UNION OF IRELAND ATTENTION, ATTENTION !! ARE YOU GAME TO TRY SOMETHING NEW? MAYBE YOU WOULD LIKE TO RETURN TO A SPORT YOU ONCE PLAYED? DO YOU WANT TO HAVE FUN? THE PAN-DISABILITY LISBURN BADMINTON CLUB SUPPORTED BY THE NORTHERN BANK COMMUNITY GRANTS SCHEME PRESENTS FREE BADMINTON TASTER SESSION FOR ANYONE WITH A PHYSICAL, LEARNING OR SENSORY DISABILITY AT CITY OF LISBURN RACQUETS CLUB ON MONDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2008 AT 11am – 1pm OPEN TO THOSE AGED 8 YEARS OF AGE AND OVER (NO UPPER LIMIT), MALE AND FEMALE, AND ALL PHYSICAL, LEARNING AND SENSORY DISABILITIES REGISTRATION & PARTICIPATION IS FREE AND IS OFFERED ON A ‘FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS’. EACH PARTICIPANT WILL BE ASSIGNED TO A 1 HOUR SESSION. FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT TRACEY HUGHES ON 07890229135 OR 02892 588544 ALTERNATIVELY DETAILS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM DISABILITY SPORTS NI (DSNI) ON 028 9050 8255 AND 028 9050 8254 (TXTPH) CLOSING DATE FOR RETURN OF COMPLETED REGISTRATION FORMS IS TUESDAY 4 NOVEMBER 2008

Title:  KNIGHTS WBC NEWS Date:   16th October News Details: GB League Div 1 Wolverhampton Rhinos Vs NI Knights The first game for the NI Knights was away from home against the Rhinos from Wolverhampton. A new look team took to the court with Paul Gallagher, Chris O’Neill and Aubrey Bingham missing from the starting line up, however this opened the door for some of last seasons fringe players to make an impact. NI Knights started poorly going down early but rallied towards the end of the first quarter with a ten point unanswered run to lead going into the second. Baskets were traded for the rest of the game but Rhinos just shaded a close encounter 60-54 at the hooter. A full match report can be found on www.ukwbf.co.uk under the Match Reports, Div 1 North tab. Irish League IWA Clontarf Dublin Div 1 UCD 53 - NI Knights 18 NI Knights 28 - Killester 63 Div 2 North/South Wildcats 25 – NI Knights 24 NI Knights 28 – Galway/Dundalk Titans 22

Title:  SIGN LANGUAGE COURSE IN RANDALSTOWN Date:   8th October News Details: A Beginner's Sign Language Course (Level 101) is being run in Arches House, Randalstown, and is currently accepting enrolments. Contact Hazel, Sarah if you would like to enrol or require further information. Spaces are limited, so don’t delay!! Details of the course are as follows:- Start date: Thursday 16th October 08 Time: 7pm – 9pm Duration: 10 weeks Cost: £3 per hour (includes tea/coffee & biscuits each week) Total : £60 Topics include: Meeting people, Using Numbers, Weather, Transport & Directions. Along with learning the Finger spelling which would start with the Alphabet A-Z For more details please contact Arches office 94478471 or email : info@randalstownarches.com

Title:  TEDDY BEARS WIN NEW AGE KURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   6th October News Details: At the recent NI New Age Kurling Championships, held at Antrim Forum Sports Centre Sept 2008. The TEDDY BEARS conquered all and came away with the winners trophy. There were 22 teams from various parts of NI competing for the trophies on offer. After the group matches and quarter finals, 4 teams were left to battle it out for the silverware. In a closely fought final the team from Reconnect C (Brain Injury Centre, Belfast) were pipped by the Teddy Bears (Action Mental Health group from Craigavon/Banbridge area) 2-1 and in the 3rd/4th Play-off the Foyle Disability Resource Centre overcame the Antrim Fillies 1-0. Well done to all the teams involved and for their sportsmanship & enthusiasm on the day. Special Thanks to Janine Harvey, Ashley Whittley (Antrim Borough Council) & the On Eagles Wing performers for helping out on the day

Title:  Paralympic Results Date:   24th September News Details: SWIMMING Hannah Clarke (S6) competed in the 100m Breaststroke and finished 9th overall, picking up a PB on the way in a time of 2:06.33. Jonathon Cummings (S6) came 8th overall in the 100m Backstroke with a time of 1:29.26 and a PB in the 400m Freestyle finishing 9th in 5:50.54. Stephen Campbell (S11) finished 15th overall in the 100m Freestyle in a time of 1:08.08, 10th in the 100m Butterfly with a PB of 1:16.28 and 10th overall in the 400m Freestyle with another PB of 5:28.43. FOOTBALL Mark Jones, along with his Irish team-mates finished 6th overall in the men’s 7-a-side football. EQUESTRIAN Eilish Byrne (Gr.II) finished 8th in the Individual Freestyle Test and 11th in the Individual Test Championships. ROWING Karen Cromie (TRMix2) competed in the Trunk and Arms Mixed Pairs where Karen and her rowing partner finished 5th overall. ATHLETICS Michael McKillop (T37) won the Gold medal and broke the World Record in a time of 1:59.39. Jason Smyth (T13) won Gold in the 100m and 200m setting New World Records in both in times 10.62 and 21.43 respectively. IRELAND The Irish team experienced their most successful Games to date. The squad of 45 athletes returned home with 5 medals (3 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze), 5 world records and a final position of 34th on the medal table. Contributing to the team’s success were the following athletes: PARALYMPICS GB With an impressive squad of 206 athletes, Paralympics GB were hopeful of a top 3 placing in the medal table. However no one expected the impressive medal hall of 102 medals including 42 Gold to put them in second place just behind China.

Title:  JASON SMYTH CLAIMS 200m GOLD Date:   16th September News Details: NI'S Jason Smyth has claimed the 200m Gold Medal with a new world record of 21.44. Jason blitzed the rest of the field with a faultless display of sprinting. This is Jason's second Gold medal of the games as he also won the 100m title. Jason competes in the T13 Class, for athletes who are partially sighted. Well Done Jason

Title:  PARALYMPIC UPDATES Date:   15th September News Details: Jason Smyth claimed his first gold in Beijing on Saturday when he broke the World 100m T13 record in a time of 10.62seconds. He will be hoping to double his gold medal tally in the 200m T13 final on Tuesday after breaking another World record time in the semi-finals on Monday. Hannah Clarke was 5th of the 6 competitors in her heat of the women's 100 metres breaststroke SB5 in 2:06.33 Belfast's Karen Cromie and her Great Britain partner James Roberts finished 5th in their mixed double sculls final at the Paralympics. In the swimming pool Johnny Cummings of Coalisland finished 8th in his 100m backstroke final. Stephen Campbell was also in action at the Water Cube, with the Cookstown man finishing 6th in his 100m and 400m freestyle heats. Armagh-based dressage rider Eilish Byrne finished 8th at the Paralympics in the Individual Freestyle Test Grade II. Belfast's Mark Jones and his Irish team-mates were beaten 4-2 by Iran and 7-0 against Ukraine, but won 4-1 against China. Their final match is against Holland, the winner will finish 5th overall in the seven-a-side soccer games in Beijing. And finally, Michael McKillop dominated the 800m final to not only win gold for Ireland but set a new world record of 1:59.39, shattering his old record by almost 3 seconds.

Title:  McKillop gets GOLD! Date:   10th September News Details: Michael McKillop claims Ireland's first gold medal of the Paralympics in Beijing. The Belfast man beat his own T37 world record by almost three seconds as he sprinted to an emphatic win in 1:59.39. McKillop was in second place as the leaders went to the bell in 58.74 seconds but he unleashed a decisive burst with 250 metres remaining. The 18-year-old was claiming Ireland's first Paralympic gold since Sydney. The Irish athlete finished over three seconds ahead of Australia's Brad Scott (2:02.71) while France's Djamel Mastouri (2:03.04) was in third place.

Title:  Athletics Development Days Date:   3rd September News Details: ATHLETICS DEVELOPMENT DAYS - SATURDAY 13th SEPTEMBER 08 – MARY PETERS TRACK, BELFAST (2PM-4PM) OR - SUNDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER – L’DERRY (2PM-4PM) Athletics NI with the support of Disability Sports NI has established a NI Disability Athletics Squad which has been up and running at the Mary Peters Track, Belfast for almost two years. In this short period of the time the squad have travelled to the UK School Games and have won eight medals at the UK National Junior Championships, Disability Sports NI would like to provide other young people with disabilities with the opportunity to get involved in the athletics squad and will be hosting a trials day on Saturday 13th September 08 at the Mary Peters Track and Sunday 28th September from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. The session is open to anyone with a disability who is between the ages of 14 and 18, who would like to take part in athletics in a structured and competitive environment. Athletes who are selected for the squad will be expected to commit to monthly training sessions and will be encouraged to join their local athletics club in order to receive regular coaching and improve their technique and performance. The day will take the format of a coaching session with all athletes being given the chance to participate in a range of track and field disciplines. The session will be overseen by qualified coaches who will identify individuals who show promise and potential, selecting them to be part of the squad. If you would be interested in taking part in they day please contact: Elaine Reid Disability Sports NI Tel:028 9038 7062 Please note that the session will held outdoors and will go ahead whatever the weather, therefore suitable outdoor clothing is needed.

Title:  FANTASTIC FUNDING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN NI Date:   28th August News Details: UnLtd would like to inform you about funding that they have available for young people 17-21 who could make use of sporting or recreational equipment and cash for venue hire, coaches etc so that they can set up a short project that will make a positive impact on other young people through sport or recreation. They are looking for around 15 young people to fund before the end of September 2008. Up to £5000 is available and applicants will have a decision to them at the end of September 2008. They are particularly interested in funding young people with a disability or projects that benefit young people with a disability. The award money can pay for equipment, venue hire, trophies, medals, refreshments, some tutors fees etc. The young person tells us what they need and UnLtd will be happy to consider their application. UnLtd can provide support with filling out the form and if the young person receive’s an award we will be there to offer advice and direction through the project. Projects can be short term – young people could organise a mini tournament over the summer in whatever sport or recreational project they believe is suitable. Tell UnLtd what is realistic and what you want to do. Once the young person applies they will have a decision back to you in 4-6 weeks. UnLtd have 15 awards to make across Northern Ireland. Deadline for applications is last week in September 2008. Contact: Ciara Brennan UnLtd Development Manager ciarabrennan@unltd.org.uk 02890 244 007 www.unltd.org.uk Note: The lead in the project should complete Application form 17-21 and any additional members should complete the Team Member form ( max 2 team members). Two references must be submitted with the form as well as parental consent letter and a one page time table for the project. Approval letter from parent if applicant is under 18. Ciara Brennan Development Manager UnLtd Rooms 55-57 Scottish Mutual Building 16 Donegal Square South Belfast BT1 5JG www.UnLtd.org.uk Tel: 028 9024 4007 Fax: 028 9024 4307 CiaraBrennan@unltd.org.uk

Title:  Sitting Volleyball Taster Session Date:   21st August News Details: Sitting Volleyball Free Taster Session A free taster session for Sitting Volleyball has been organised by Claire Briggs alongside NI Volleyball Association and GB Sitting Volleyball Manager to give people with physical disabilities such as amputees, cerebral palsy, and spinal-bifida an opportunity to get a feel for the sport of volleyball. The session will be hosted at the UUJ Sports Complex on Saturday 6th September between 2pm - 4pm. For further details, please contact: Claire Briggs Tel: 028 90902702 Email: claire.briggs@belfasttrust.hscni.net

Title:  Matthew Bell All Set For European Swimming Championships Date:   19th August News Details: Matthew Bell of Andy Hunter Swimming (AHS) has jetting off to Poland to swim for Great Britain at the INAS-FID European Swimming Championships for People with Learning Disabilities. Matthew, who is coached by Andy Hunter, will compete in a number of events, 1500 Freestyle, 400 Freestyle, 200 Backstroke, 100 Breaststroke, and the 200 and 400 Individual Medley alongside his fellow team mates from England, Scotland and Wales. The event which is specifically aimed at elite S14 swimmers is being held in Poland from 16th – 21st August 08 and will attract competitors from throughout Europe. The GB squad is currently ranked number 1 at INAS-FID swimming competitions at both World and European level and Matthew hopes to contribute to the medal tally which will keep them at the top of the table. Matthew’s preparation programme has been funded and supported by Sport NI Lottery Fund, Athlete Support Programme. The support given by lottery has allowed Matthew to access the high level training he needs to compete at this level as well as giving him the opportunity to widen his experience at an international level. DSNI would like to wish Matthew and the rest of the Great Britain team the best of luck.

Title:  Fundraising & Marketing Post Date:   15th August News Details: Disability Sports NI is Northern Ireland’s main disability sports organisation, working to promote equality of opportunity for people with disabilities to take part in and enjoy sport and physical activity at a level of their choice. The organisation currently runs a range of projects, events and training courses which benefit over 3,500 people annually. We are currently recruiting the following post to increase the level of funds secured from the public and to increase public awareness of our work. Fundraising & Marketing Officer (Belfast) (Ref: FMO 08) Salary Scale: NJC Point 22-28 (£18,907-£22,845 under review) Essential Criteria will include: • A degree (or equivalent third level qualification), in a discipline which can be proven relevant to the duties of the post. • At least one year’s full-time experience, gained within the last five years of fundraising, marketing or communications. Further information and an application form are available from: Disability Sports NI, Adelaide House, Falcon Road, Belfast BT12 6SJ Telephone: 028 9038 7062; Fax: 028 9038 7063; Text: 028 9038 7064 Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00pm on Thursday 28th August 08.

Title:  Disability Multi Sport Camp in Castlereagh Borough Council Date:   1st August News Details: Castlereagh Borough Council's Sports Development Unit have announced the details of their exciting 'Disability Multi Sport Camp' VENUE: BELVOIR ACTIVITY CENTRE DATES: TUESDAY 26th - THURSDAY 28th AUGUST '08 AGE: 6 - 15 YRS TIME: 9.30am - 1.00pm COST: £7 PER DAY They will also be starting 'Multi Skills Sessions' in September '08: VENUE: BELVOIR ACTIVITY CENTRE DATES: TUESDAY 23rd SEPT '08 (every Tuesday for 8 weeks) AGE: 6 - 15 YRS TIME: 7.30pm - 9pm COST: £24

Title:  BLIND GOLF 'WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS' & 'BRITISH OPEN' COMING TO NORTHERN IRELAND IN AUGUST 2008 Date:   29th July News Details: British and World Blind Golf Championships to be held in Northern Ireland. NI Blind Golf Association are due to host two of the most prestigious events in the blind golf calendar. For the first time ever the British Blind Golf Championships and World Blind Golf Championships will be held back to back, with the double header attracting top blind golfers from around the world, all chasing the title of Champion. Massereene Golf Club in Antrim will play host to the British Open from the 6th – 8th August 08 while Belvoir Park Golf Club will be the venue for the World Championships taking place from the 10th – 12th August 08. The hosting of the two events has only been made possible through the generous support of Sport NI, Belfast City Council, Belvoir Park Golf Club and Disability Sports NI. If you would like further details on either event contact Jan Dinsdale of NI Blind Golf on 028 9187 8474.

Title:  Badminton Taster Sessions SAT 2nd AUGUST Date:   21st July News Details: ATTENTION, ATTENTION !! ARE YOU GAME TO TRY SOMETHING NEW? MAYBE YOU WOULD LIKE TO RETURN TO A SPORT YOU ONCE PLAYED? DO YOU WANT TO HAVE FUN? THE PAN-DISABILITY LISBURN BADMINTON CLUB SUPPORTED BY THE NORTHERN BANK COMMUNITY GRANTS SCHEME PRESENTS FREE BADMINTON TASTER SESSION FOR ANYONE WITH A PHYSICAL, LEARNING OR SENSORY DISABILITY AT CITY OF LISBURN RACQUETS CLUB ON SATURDAY 2 AUGUST 2008 AT 2 – 5PM OPEN TO THOSE AGED 8 YEARS OF AGE AND OVER (NO UPPER LIMIT), MALE AND FEMALE, AND ALL PHYSICAL, LEARNING AND SENSORY DISABILITIES REGISTRATION & PARTICIPATION IS FREE AND IS OFFERED ON A ‘FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS’. EACH PARTICIPANT WILL BE ASSIGNED TO A 1 HOUR SESSION. FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT TRACEY HUGHES ON 07890229135 OR 02892 588544 ALTERNATIVELY DETAILS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM DISABILITY SPORTS NI (DSNI) ON 028 9050 8255 AND 028 9050 8254 (TXTPH) CLOSING DATE FOR RETURN OF COMPLETED REGISTRATION FORMS IS MONDAY 28 JULY 2008

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND ATHLETES HEADING FOR 2008 BEIJING PARALYMPICS Date:   8th July News Details: 8 Northern Ireland Athletes have been named in the GB & NI and IRELAND PARALYMPIC Squads GB & NI Karen Cromie from Enniskillen has been selected to represent GB & NI at the Beijing Paralympics. Karen, who is an adaptive rower will compete in the trunk and arms mixed doubles with partner James Roberts from Wales as part of the GB & NI squad. Adaptive rowing will be making its debut at the Games and will be held in the Shunyi Olympic Rowing Park from 9th – 11th September. IRELAND Belfast lad Michael McKillop is the 800m T37 world champion Medal prospects Jason Smyth and Michael McKillop are among the Northern Ireland athletes named in Ireland's 45-strong team for the Beijing Paralympics. Sprinter Smyth and middle-distance man McKillop claimed world championship gold medals two years ago. The team also includes Armagh dressage rider Eilish Byrne, Tyrone swimmers Jonathan Cummings and Stephen Campbell, Saintfield swimmer Hannah Clarke. and Mark Jones (Belfast) is also in the CP football squad. The games get underway on 6 September and will run for 12 days. The Paralympic Games are elite Olympic style sports events for elite athletes with physical disabilities, or visual impairment, emphasising athletic achievement rather than disability. Approximately 4000 athletes, from over 153 countries across twenty sports will compete at the Beijing Games. Athletes compete in various classes of competition and are classified according to their disability. The Irish team comprises ten track and field athletes, four cyclists (with two sighted pilot riders), one archer, four boccia players (a form of bowls for athletes with severe physical disabilities), a team of twelve footballers, six swimmers, five sailors, two table tennis players, and one dressage rider. Footballers Mark Jones was part of the Seven-a-side football team, who recently played an exhibition game in Austria before the Euro 2008 quarter-final between Spain and Italy. The Irish team at 45 is the biggest squad since the Atlanta Games in 1996. This is regarded as something of a coup for the Paralympic Council of Ireland as many western nations are facing reductions in team size as a result of the escalating number of competing countries. The Irish team will come together for their final whole team training camp at the University of Limerick from 7-10 August, before departing for their holding camp in Beijing on 24 August.

Title:  IRISH WHEELCHAIR ASSOC. JUNIOR SPORTS CAMP 2008 Date:   7th July News Details: Sports Camp – DCU/IWA Sports Centre Tuesday 29 July – Thursday 31 July 2008 IWA –Sport is hosting a residential sports camp for junior athletes from 5 – 18 years. There will be 3 age appropriate groups (ie. 5-9, 10-14, 15-18 yrs). Locations: The majority of activities will take place in Dublin City University (DCU) Glasnevin and IWA Sports Centre Clontarf. Registration On the first day of the Camp, registrations for all participants will take place in the IWA Sports Centre Clontarf from 10.30am-12.00pm. We will be checking into accommodation in DCU after the day’s sports activities. For subsequent days all registrations will take place in the Main DCU Restaurant from 9.00 – 9.30 am. Day participants must register each day. It will be necessary for day participants to indicate a nominated person who will be responsible for collecting the day camp participant at the Irish Wheelchair Association Sports Centre at 5.30pm. All participants must be collected at the IWA Sports Centre Clontarf between 12.30 -1.00pm on Thursday 31st July when the camp concludes. Timetable A draft timetable of activities included. This is intended as a guide. Please note it may be necessary to change scheduled activities due to weather conditions or other prevailing factors. Clothing Should include several t-shirts, tracksuits, swimming gear (please include a swim cap, flotation aids and a towel). Waterproof raingear is advisable. Hopefully, suncream will be an essential requirement. The Accommodation We will be using the student apartment accommodation. Bed Linen and towels will be provided, however we would suggest bring some extra towels. Each Apartment has several bedrooms, with a fully equipped kitchen and sitting room. There are no television sets in the student accommodation. Participants are welcome to bring along hand held electronic devices e.g. MP3, Game Boy, DS etc. We are unable to accept responsibility for the security of these items. Another option would be to bring along board games, cards etc. Transport Full transport will be provided by the IWA Accessible Fleet for the duration of the camp for all junior camp participants. This is included in the entry fees. Meals For full camp participants all meals are included. For Day participants lunch only is included. Tuesday Lunch 1.00pm Packed Lunch IWA Clontarf Dinner 6.00pm Main DCU Restaurant Wednesday Breakfast 8.30am Main DCU Restaurant Lunch 1.00pm Packed Lunch IWA Clontarf Dinner 6.00pm Main DCU Restaurant Thursday Breakfast 8.30am Main DCU Restaurant Lunch 1.00pm Pack Lunch (TBA) Participants are permitted to bring along snacks. There is a convenience store located close to the accommodation. Medical & Personal Care Please fill out the attached forms. Please ensure that your child has sufficient personal hygiene supplies as we will not be in a position to supply these. The attached forms must be completed and returned with Booking Form by 26 June 2008 Form 2 - Parental Medical Consent form (pink) Form 3 - Medical Details (yellow) Form 4 - Summer Camp Care Form (white) Form 5 - Personal Care Information form (green) From 6 - Parent/Guardian Consent (purple) Wheelchairs - Please ensure that your child’s wheelchair is in a good state of repair. Although we have a limited number of sports chairs available, participants will be using their own wheelchairs for the majority of activities. Conduct & Lights out As with all IWA Sport events all camp participants are expected to uphold our Code of Ethics and Good Conduct. A “lights out” time will be advised on a daily basis, dependant on the evening activities and also age groups. In keeping with normal practice, as this is a junior sports camp, all staff, volunteers and parents are asked to note for the duration of the camp, alcohol is not permitted. Irish Wheelchair Association Blackheath Drive, Clontarf, Dublin 3, Tel: 00 353 1 8186400 Fax: 00 353 1 8333873 Email: info@iwasport.com Web: www.iwa.ie

Title:  Invitation to Tender from Federation of Disability Sport Wales Date:   20th June News Details: Invitation to Tender (National Governing Body Disability Equality Training) The Federation of Disability Sport Wales (FDSW) are seeking a consultant/consultancy team to tender for the further development of existing Disability Equality Training to suit the needs of National Governing Body Board of Directors, Administrative and non-coaching staff. FDSW have recently developed a workshop and associated resources aimed at Leisure Service Providers, and wish to add to their suite of Disability Equality Training for different audiences. The deadline for the receipt of Tenders is 12pm on Monday 21st July 2008. Please contact stephanie.larkin@fdsw.org.uk to receive an Invitation to Tender pack.

Title:  KNIGHTS WBC LIFT IRISH WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CUP Date:   16th June News Details: SATURDAY 14th /SUNDAY 15th JUNE 2008 - IRISH WHEELCHAIR ASSOCIATION, CLONTARF, ROI. The Knights have just returned home from Dublin with some further silverware for their trophy cabinet. Putting in some scintillating performances over the course of the day, the Knights stormed into the final where they defeated Killester (Dublin) 74-48. KNIGHTS: D.Young 4pts, J.McCarthy 4, J.Kennedy 32, M.Rollston 12, A.Bingham 20, S.Lynn, P.Mitchell & J.Odgers Player-Coach Jason Kennedy paid tribute to the team 'This was a nice way to finish up the season. There was plenty of intensity, good shooting and a fair degree of skill on show, We can now enjoy our summer break and return re-invigorated for next season' Also during the weekend, the Knights Development team led by Captain Paul McLister competed in the second tier Cup competition on Sunday 15th. They had 3 impressive wins en route to the final, however their opponents in the Final, Shannonside adopted a winning game plan and ran out 30-24 winners. KNIGHTS: C.Watson 6pts, G.Wallace 4, J.McCarthy 12, A.Ryan 2, J.Odgers, P.McLister, E.MacSorley, J.MacSorley, N.O'Neill & S.Kirk All in all, a superb weekend of Basketball, congratulations to IWA Sport and in particular Mark Barry and Orla Dempsey - IWA Sports Development Officers for all their hard work.

Title:  Niall McVeigh Adds To His Achievements Date:   12th June News Details: Niall McVeigh, the 2008 European Men’s Singles Disability Badminton Champion, has added further to his list of sporting achievements. A member of the Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club, 17 year old Niall was nominated by the club for the Armagh Sports Council’s Disabled Sportsperson of the Year 2008 award and was duly adjudged to be a worthy recipient of this accolade. Niall was unfortunately unable to attend the Awards Ceremony as he was on international duty with the Irish team at the European Championships in Germany. However, Bryan Holliday, President of the Ulster Branch Badminton Union of Ireland (UBBUI), was on hand to present Niall with his award on his return from his European endeavours.

Title:  Disabled Ramblers NI Date:   11th June News Details: There are two days organised by the Disabled Ramblers NI in June: Saturady 14th June: Return of the Vikings - Antrim Loughshore Park 'Return of the Vikings' is a great day out for all the family. As well as a river race, with teams competing in replica long-boats, there will be displays of Viking battle tactics and a living history exhibition as well as a chance to try your hand at archery. Not only is all this happening, but the Antrim Boat Club are holding their regatta and 'Torpedo Tern Day' will give you a chance to learn about the colony of Terns living off the Loughshore Park. The event runs from 2.00pm until 5.00pm. Scooters will be issued from Clotworthy Arts Centre in Antrim Timetable: 1.00 Gather at Clotworthy Arts Centre:Allocation of scooters:Briefing 1.30 Ramble-down Six Mile Water tow-path to Lough Shore Park 2.00 'Return of the Vikings' 'Torpedo Tern Day' and Regatta 5.00 Weather permitting - high tea at Lough Shore Coffee House (meal not pre-booked, order and pay at restaurant) Sunday 15th June: Clotworthy House and Antrim Lough Shore Park Ramble Timetable: 11.00 Gather at Clotworthy Arts Centre:Allocation of scooters:Briefing 11.30 Pre-lunch Ramble around Antrim Castle Gardens 12.30 Picnic lunch at Castle Gardens/Clotworthy Arts Centre 1.30 Ramble - down Six Mile Water two-path to Lough Shore Park and into Rea's Wood Nature Reserve. Return by same route 4.30 Ramble ends back at Clotworthy car-park and scooters returned 5.00 Meet at Red Panda restaurant in 'Junction One' shopping centre for high tea (meal not pre-booked, order and pay at restaurant) Getting there: Follow the M2 from Belfast until you reach the exit at Junction 1 (which comes after junctions 6 & 7) Follow the road into Antrim straight across the roundabouts until you pass a maxol petrol station on your left-hand side - then, at the next roundabout, take the road leading to the right - towards Randalstown. The entrance to Clotworthy is only a short distance up this road on the left. Follow the drive into the car park where there are disabled spaces close to the building. For further information regarding booking form, please contact: Mark Logan Tel: 07762 91 21 91

Title:  2008-2009 EVENTS CALENDAR NOW AVAILABLE Date:   10th June News Details: The DSNI 2008-2009 Events Calendar is now available. You can either download it via the 'Whats On' section of the DSNI website or contact DSNI for a copy. Tel 90387062 or email@dsni.co.uk

Title:  HAND CYCLING & TANDEM CYCLING 1O MILE TIME TRIALS Date:   10th June News Details: Cycling Ulster have set up a 10 mile time trial for Hand Cyclists and also for Tandem Cyclists as part of their event to be held on THURSDAY 12th JUNE 2008 at Woodgreen, Antrim Line, 6.45pm Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 in both the Hand & Tandem Cycling sections. Parking has been reserved for disabled cyclists within the nearest Lay-by, contact Tommy Lamb for specific details. For further information, Contact Tommy Lamb (Cycling Ulster) 94453203 or check out www.cyclingulster.com

Title:  Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club Date:   10th June News Details: ATTENTION, ATTENTION !! ARE YOU GAME TO TRY SOMETHING NEW? MAYBE YOU WOULD LIKE TO RETURN TO A SPORT YOU ONCE PLAYED? DO YOU WANT TO HAVE FUN? THE PAN-DISABILITY LISBURN BADMINTON CLUB SUPPORTED BY THE NORTHERN BANK COMMUNITY GRANTS SCHEME PRESENTS: FREE BADMINTON TASTER SESSION FOR ANYONE WITH A PHYSICAL, LEARNING OR SENSORY DISABILITY AT CITY OF LISBURN RACQUETS CLUB ON WEDNESDAY 25 JUNE 2008 AT 11AM – 1PM OPEN TO THOSE AGED 8 YEARS OF AGE AND OVER (NO UPPER LIMIT), MALE AND FEMALE, AND ALL PHYSICAL, LEARNING AND SENSORY DISABILITIES REGISTRATION & PARTICIPATION IS FREE AND IS OFFERED ON A ‘FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS’. EACH PARTICIPANT WILL BE ASSIGNED TO A 1 HOUR SESSION. FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACT TRACEY HUGHES ON 07890229135 OR 02892 588544 ALTERNATIVELY DETAILS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM DISABILITY SPORTS NI (DSNI) ON 028 9050 8255 AND 028 9050 8254 (TXTPH) CLOSING DATE FOR RETURN OF COMPLETED REGISTRATION FORMS IS FRIDAY 20 JUNE 2008

Title:  Hand and Tandem Cycling Demonstration Event Date:   9th June News Details: Have you an interest in cycling, and ever wondered about getting involved? Then why not come down to the 'Hand Cycling and Tandem Cycling Demonstration Event' in Carrickfergus. Location: Waterfront Criterium, Carrickfergus Date and Time: Monday Evening @ 7.45pm Contact: Darrell Erwin, 028 2564 3356 Anyone interested in seeing these activities first hand should come along.

Title:  Niall Crowned European Badminton Champion Date:   4th June News Details: NIALL CROWNED EUROPEAN BADMINTON CHAMPION 17 year old Niall McVeigh is the new European Men’s Singles Disability Badminton Champion. Niall, who plays for the Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club, was a member of the Irish team which competed at the recent European Disability Badminton Championships in Dortmund, Germany. Playing in the Dwarf Classification, Niall fought his way through to the final where his opponent was the strong Russian player, Alexandr Mekhdiev. Playing controlled badminton, Niall captured the first set 21/14. Mekhdiev then came back to take the match into a decider by capturing the second set 21/15. In a pulsating third set Niall showed his renowned fighting qualities and in the penultimate point of the match played a 24-stroke rally, recovering three times from having to dive across the court to keep the rally going, to reach match point and take the European crown 21/19. Such was the quality of this final that both players received a standing ovation. Niall did not have much time to rest on his laurels as he took to the court once again, this time in the Men’s Doubles final with his English partner Krysten Coombs. Their opponents were the top seeds and number one pair within the UK and Ireland, Andrew Martin and Oliver Clarke. The first set went to Martin and Clarke 21/15 due largely to too many errors from Niall and Krysten. However, in the next set the tables were turned with Niall and Krysten eradicating the mistakes and playing some astute rallies to take the set 21/16. In a topsy-turvy deciding set Martin and Clarke eventually established a 19/15 lead only to be pegged back to 19-all by way of some determined play from Niall and his partner. A second European crown was tantalisingly within Niall’s grasp, but unfortunately it was not to be with Martin and Clarke taking the third set 21/19 and the European title. The other member of the Irish team, Luke Irvine, also from the Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club, showed sustained improvement throughout the Championships and was rewarded when he won the bronze medal in the Men’s Doubles with his French partner, Pierre Estorges. Luke also showed that he is fast improving in the singles arena when he reached the quarter-finals where he lost to Oliver Martin, the third seed from England, 21/6 21/10. Niall and Luke were both financially supported for these European Championships by Sport Lisburn, Ulster Sport and Recreation Trust, Express Parcels, The Baird Group and the Ulster Branch Badminton Union of Ireland. Irish Team Manager Tracey Hughes and coaches Leslie Dewart and Eugene McVeigh were all delighted with the performances of both players. Niall and Luke’s next major event will be the Welsh 4 Nations Championships in Cardiff on 15 – 17 August 2008, where they will compete with other members of the Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club who will be competing in the wheelchair, standing and learning disability categories. Once again participation at such an event will require a heavy financial outlay. If any businesses and/or individuals would be interested in sponsoring the Club’s trip to Cardiff, please contact the Club’s manager, Tracey Hughes on 07890229135.

Title:  Irish National Wheelchair Tennis Championships Date:   30th April News Details: Date: Fri 15th – Sun 17th August 2008 Venue:David Lloyd Riverview, Clonsleagh, Dublin, ROI Contact: Mark Barry - Irish Wheelchair Association,Sport mark.barry@iwa.ie

Title:  Matthew Selected to Compete Alongside World Best Date:   28th April News Details: A huge congratulations to 18 year old Matthew Bell from Larne Swimming Club who has just been selected to swim for Great Britain at the INAS-FID European Swimming Championships for People with Learning Disabilities. Matthew, who is coached by Andy Hunter will compete in 8 events along side his fellow team mates from England, Scotland and Wales. The event which is specifically aimed at elite S14 swimmer is being held in Poland from 16th – 21st August 08 and will attract competitors from throughout Europe. The GB squad is currently is currently ranked number 1 at INAS-FID swimming competitions at both a World and European level and Matthew hopes to contribute to the medal tally which will keep them at the top of the table. Matthew’s preparation programme has been funded and supported by Sport NI Lottery Fund, Athlete Support Programme. The support given by lottery has allowed Matthew to access the high level training he needs to compete at this level as well as giving him the opportunity to widen his experience at an international level. DSNI would like to wish Matthew and the rest of the Great Britain team the best of luck.

Title:  ***Blind Golf Development Day*** Date:   18th April News Details: The RNIB are hosting a golf development day on Monday 9th June at Allen Park Golf Centre, Antirm. This is a fantastic opportunity to have some fun and learn the skills of golf from a Professional The development day is available to blind and partially sighted people of all ages. Friends and family are more than welcome to attend and take part. We have organised three sessions with a club pro. The times for the sessions are: 1. 2.00pm - 2.45pm 2. 2.45pm - 3.30pm 3. 3.30pm - 4.15pm There is no cost for the session. Contact Shannon Connolly at RNIB Northern Ireland on 02890329373 for further details.

Title:  Visually Impaired Football Development Day- L'Derry Date:   14th April News Details: Visually Impaired Football Development Day- L'Derry. The RNIB will be holding a development day for visually impaired football on Sunday 27th April. The development day will take place in Templemore Leisure Centre, from 1pm-3pm. IFA coaches and RNIB volunteers are attending the event so it would be brilliant to get a good turnout. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity for young children and adults to come and have some fun whilst meeting new people and learning new skills. We are hoping to set up a weekly Visually impaired football club in Derry at the start of May. Friends and family are more than welcome to join in!! Development Day!!! Where: Templemore Leisure Centre. L'Derry. Who can play: Males and Females with visual impairment. Junior squad- ages 5-15 Senior squad- age 15+ Friends and family are welcome to join in!! When: Sunday 27th April 2008 Junior session: 1pm-2pm Senior session: 2pm-3pm What to Bring: Training gear and training shoes suitable for an indoor hall. Why: Excellent opportunity to meet new people!! Learn new skills from qualified IFA coaches! Everyone’s welcome!! For further details contact: Shannon Connolly at RNIB NI on (028) 90 329373 or Martina O' Neill on 07999713245

Title:  DSNI ARE MOVING OFFICE Date:   14th April News Details: DSNI will be moving office and from the 1st May 2008, the new contact details are: Disability Sports NI Adelaide House Falcon Rd BELFAST Tel: 028 9038 7062 Fax: 028 9038 7063 Textphone: 028 9038 7064 The new office is located just off Boucher Road in Belfast. If you are coming into Belfast using the M1, then take the Balmoral/Outer Ring exit, take the 3rd turn off the roundabout unto Stockmans Lane. At the 1st set of traffic lights, turn LEFT unto Boucher Rd. If you are coming into Belfast using the M2, go unto the Westlink and at the Broadway roundabout turn LEFT unto Boucher Rd. To get to Adelaide House turn off Boucher Road unto Apollo Rd (Marks & Spencer food store on the corner) a short distance along Apollo Rd you will see the RIGHT hand turn unto Falcon Rd, then turn immediately LEFT through the gates into the courtyard, you will see Adelaide House straight ahead.

Title:  FLY FISHING COMPETITIONS, ENTRIES INVITED Date:   10th April News Details: IRISH DISABLED FLY FISHING ASSOCIATION John Joe Duffy Memorial Competition will be fished on Saturday, 31st May 2008 on Lough Erne 12.00 noon – 5.00 p.m. Going out from Rossigh, Castlearchdale. CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES: 25th April, 2008 Qualifying Competition to select the team to fish the Disabled International Match in Wales in 2009 will be fished on Annagh Lake, Cavan on 30th August, 2008. CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES: 2nd August, 2008 Entry forms and further details from E J Black, Hon. Secretary. Tel: 028 2564 2539

Title:  Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club Date:   8th April News Details: The Pan-Disability Lisburn Badminton Club had a very successful trip last weekend at the Badmintons Four Nations Championships in Largs. The club proved to be one of the best by picking up quite a number of medals: - Niall McVeigh took gold in the Dwarf Men's Singles and silver in both the Men's and Mixed Doubles events. - Emma Farnham took silver in the Dwarf Ladies' Singles and Doubles event. - Luke Kells and Colin O'Neill took gold in the Learning Disability Class 2 Men's Doubles. Also a mention for Luke Irvine, Michael Smith and Laura-Lee Jenkins who competed strong in the tournament. All the players had a fantastic weekend and as they said "they've caught the bug" and want to play in more tournaments!

Title:  Olympia Triathlon Club - 2008 Aquathons Date:   8th April News Details: Olympian Triathlon Club & Olympia Leisure Centre 2008 Aquathons Swim and run/walk ‘try –it’ events for fitness and fun Adult events: Saturday, 29th March 2008 • 400m swim & 5km run • Walker’s Challenge: 3km walk and 200m swim (Walk and run sections in Musgrave Park) Children’s events: Saturday, 26th April, 2008 25m swim & 300m run OR 200m swim & 1.2km run Start time for both events: 1pm (with registration in Olympia Leisure Centre: 12 -12.45 pm) Olympia Leisure Centre, Boucher Rd., Belfast. Further details and entry forms from available @ www.otcbelfast.com (Pre-entry only, no entries accepted on day) Entry fees: Adults £5 Children £3 Entries from People with Disabilities are particularly welcome. The event and facilities will be fully accessible. Break between swim and run sections. Closing date for adult race: 20th March; for children & youth event: 23rd April.

Title:  Irish Blind Sports Athletics Training Weekend Date:   8th April News Details: IRISH BLIND SPORTS ATHLETICS TRAINING WEEKEND Saturday 26th– Sunday 27th April 2008 Venue: Cork Institute of Technology - Fun weekend for people of all levels of all levels and abilities - try out a new event!! - In conjunction with Cork Sports Partnership Sports Ability Day. COST - Residential 100 Euros Non-Residential 25 Euros Price Includes: - 2 nights bed and breakfast accomodation in hotel - 2 days coaching sessions For futher inforamtion, contact: Daragh McDaid 087 9654 532 daraghmcdaid@yahoo.com or Kelly Boutilier 01 2020 118 kelly@ibsports.ie

Title:  KNIGHTS JUNIORS QUALIFY FOR GB LEAGUE FINALS Date:   2nd April News Details: After the 3rd and final round of matches in the GB Junior Wheelchair Basketball League, Northern Ireland's representatives the Knights Juniors finished 2nd in the Southern Division earning them a place in the play-offs where they will meet Sheffield Steelers Juniors in a Quarter-Final match up. The Knights came through their 12 Divisional matches with a record of 10 wins and only 2 defeats. Knights Juniors: G.Wallace, C.Rankin, Z.Lusty, E.MacSorley, J.MacSorley, C.Campbell, J.Agnew & P.Farrell The Junior League Play-Off Finals will take place on Sat 26th April at the Wildcats Arena, Nottingham. If you are interested in finding out more about the Junior Team. Contact Jason Kennedy 078 0143 6248

Title:  DAANI Begin Training Date:   28th March News Details: DAANI held their first football training session at the new high performance complex in Jordanstown University on the 8th March in preparation for the 2009 Dwarf World Games. Mal Donaghy of the IFA took a large group of boys and girls for the football session by which they had a fun time showing off their silky skills. DAANI will be keeping up with the training with Mal again on the 10th May at the high performance complex.

Title:  SWIMMING SESSIONS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Date:   28th March News Details: Swimability is a swimming group open to children and young people with any form of diability providing opportunities to enjoy the water, learn lifesaving skills and compete if they wish to do so. Venue: Muckamore Abbey Hospital Pool Thursday Evenings 7:00 - 7.30pm Non-Swimmers, 7.30 - 8:00pm Swimmers Contact Lynda Groves 9181 6452 or 079 6601 2695 lyndagroves@hotmail.com

Title:  NEW AGE KURLING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   19th March News Details: 3rd - 4th May, 2008, the Kurling World Singles and Doubles Championship at Warners Chalet Park, Hayling Island, Hampshire, there is still time to book and register to take part in these brilliant competitions, just contact Nick Gibbs of the Great Britain Kurling Association, we are also looking for you to join the GBKA so we can be recognised as a sport by Sport England just email Nick Gibbs on gbka_secretary@hotmail.co.uk

Title:  TALENTED JUNIOR SWIMMERS BRING HOME MEDALS Date:   14th March News Details: Congratulations to the Ulster and Irish swimmers who competed in this years DSE UK National Junior Swimming Championships held in Ponds Forge, Sheffield. The event, which was sponsored by Nationwide Building Society seen 6 of Northern Ireland’s most talented swimmers compete against 200 other young Paralympic hopefuls. At the end of the two day meet swimmers from throughout the UK had broken 3 World Records, 6 European Records and a host of British Records. Not to be outdone, local swimmers Eimear MacSorley, Laurence McGivern and James MacSorley, all of whom were representing Ireland brought home gold medals, while Ellen Meldrum and Matthew Bell added to Swim Ulster’s medal tally. A total of 17 medals were brought home by the 6 swimmers including a silver medal for the freestyle relay which included the newest member of the squad James Hamilton who was competing at the competition for the first time. A full list of medal winners is as follows: Gold Eimear MacSorley 50m Breaststroke 100m Breaststroke James MacSorley 100m Breaststroke Laurence McGivern 50m Backstroke Silver James MacSorley 50m Breaststroke 50m Freestyle Ellen Meldrum 50m Breaststroke Eimear MacSorley 50m Backstroke 100m Backstroke Laurence McGivern 50m Breaststroke 100m Backstroke Matthew Bell 100m Breaststroke Bronze Mathew Bell 100m Freestyle 100m Butterfly 50m Freestyle Ellen Meldrum 50m Backstroke 50m Freestyle

Title:  FERMANAGH ACHIEVES MAJOR FITNESS ACCOLADE Date:   12th March News Details: The Lakeland Forum Leisure Centre, in Enniskillen has become the first leisure centre in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales to achieve the prestigious ‘Inclusive Fitness Initiative’ accreditation Mark (‘IFI’), which recognises excellence in the provision of fitness facilities which are fully inclusive of people with disabilities. Fermanagh District Council was presented with the prestigious ‘IFI’ award by former Paralympic athlete and current Chairperson of Disability Sports NI, Angela Hendra MBE, at Fermanagh’s annual Sports Awards, held at the Killyhevlin Hotel in Enniskillen on Friday 7th March. Speaking immediately after the awards ceremony Mrs Hendra said “I am delighted that the Lakeland Forum has become the first ‘IFI’ accredited site in Northern Ireland. The accreditation clearly demonstrates the council’s commitment to ensuring that its sports and leisure facilities are truly inclusive of people with disabilities. The many positive changes made at the Lakeland Forum will mean that many more local people with disabilities will have the opportunity to lead a fit and active lifestyle in the area”. Accepting the accreditation plaque on behalf of Fermanagh District Council, Councillor Alex Baird, Chairman of Fermanagh District Council said “I am delighted to accept this plaque on behalf of all the leisure services staff in Fermanagh who worked so hard to achieve ‘IFI’ accreditation, but more importantly I’m very proud that the Lakeland Forum is the first Leisure Centre in Ireland to receive the accreditation. I think the award underlines our ongoing commitment to including more local people with disabilities in our sports and leisure programmes.” The accolade marks the completion of a major series of work, largely funded by the Sport Northern Ireland Lottery Fund, which has included the complete refurbishment of the fitness suite, the purchase of new accessible fitness equipment and the training of leisure centre staff. Congratulating the Council on the award Eamonn McCartan, Chief Executive of Sport Northern Ireland said, “We are pleased to have been able to fund such an innovative project that has the potential to improve the quality of life of hundreds of people with disabilities in the Fermanagh area. This investment underlines our commitment to extending the benefits of sport and physical recreation to the whole community, including people with disabilities.” The ‘IFI’ accreditation mark was achieved as part of a broader sports and leisure project being organised as a result of a partnership between Fermanagh District Council and Disability Sports NI. The project called the ‘Fermanagh Inclusive Sports & Leisure Project’ began in early 2007 and is concerned with the development of a range of sports and leisure opportunities for people with disabilities throughout Fermanagh. Ends For further information please contact: Kevin O’Neill, Development Manager, Disability Sports NI Tel: 028 9050 8255 Mobile: 07808 772402 Or Roisin Henry, Fermanagh Inclusive Sports & Leisure Officer, Disability Sports NI Tel: 028 6632 6936 Mobile: 07798 687843

Title:  Funding Information Evening Date:   7th March News Details: DSNI is hosting this years annual Funding Information Evening on Monday 10th March, being held in Ormeau Business Park from 6.30pm – 9.00pm. Representatives from Sport NI Lottery Fund, A4 Awards for All, NICVA, Ulster Sports Trust and The Big Lottery Fund will be attending on the night so if you or your club have a project in mind please come along and find out more about the various types of funding available. Please confirm your attendance by contacting the DSNI office on 028 9050 8255.

Title:  NEW AGE KURLING LEAGUE STARTING IN CASTLEREAGH Date:   6th March News Details: New Age Kurling 6 Week League in Cregagh Communtiy Centre. Monday 31st March at 11am-1pm. Contact Kelly Dougan at kellyd@castlereagh.gov.uk or Tel 02890 494543. Greater Belfast Area. Following on from a 6 week Boccia League we have decided to run a New Age Kurling League. It is aimed at everyone and anyone who would like to take part, all ages and abilities, the more the merrier! This Tournament will take place each Monday from 11am-1pm, in Cregagh Community Centre. It will start on Monday 31st March. For a team entry form please contact myself, Kelly Dougan, on the email or telephone number above. We look forward to seeing you there!! Kelly Dougan Community Sports Development Officer Castlreagh Borough Council Bradford Court Upper Galwally Belfast BT8 6RB 02890 494543 or 07903714593

Title:  IRISH BLIND SPORTS - MAY GAMES Date:   5th March News Details: MAY GAMES – DUBLIN – Saturday 10th may 2008 We are pleased to announce that the 28th May Games will take place on Saturday, 10th May 2008 at Aer Lingus Sports Club (ALSAA), Dublin Airport Low Vision athletics participants are invited to take part in track and field events – new entrants are especially welcome For preliminary information, please contact: Kate Dobbyn May Games Organiser 086-2585148 Email: katedobbyn@gmail.com or Irish Blind Sports Tel: (353-1) 2020118 Email: info@ibsports.ie

Title:  GAA Course Date:   19th February News Details: The 'GAA for ALL' course is open to all parents, coaches and teachers looking for fun useful advice to adapt games. Its free of charge and starts at 7.30pm in St.Micheals Grammar School Lurgan March 3rd and Bryansford GAA club, March 10. ALL WELCOME. For any further information please contact: Una McKay Regional Development Officer Ulster Council email: umckay@ulster.gaa.ie 07920528793

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND CEREBRAL PALSY SQUAD Date:   8th February News Details: NORTHERN IRELAND CEREBRAL PALSY SQUAD NEW PLAYERS WELCOME!!! WHERE: BILLY NEILL CENTRE, COMBER RD, DUNDONALD OUTDOOR ON GRASS WHO CAN PLAY: MALES, AGES 10+ WHEN: SUNDAY 17th FEBRUARY 2008, 1PM – 3PM WHAT TO BRING: FOOTBALL BOOTS AND TRAINING GEAR changing/showering facilities available. COST: FREE ACTIVITIES: Skill Progression, Mobility, Team Play and Competitive Games. Enjoyment. THE IFA ARE HOSTING THE 2008 HOME NATIONS CP CHAMPIONSHIPS IN JUNE. CAN YOU BE A PART OF THIS SQUAD??? For more information on CP Football or Disability Football in general please contact: Alan Crooks at the Irish Football Association on 028 90 669458 or by e-mail at acrooks@irishfa.com

Title:  WILLOWBANK WIN NI BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   4th February News Details: The Boccia team from Willowbank (Dungannon) narrowly pipped Station Rd (Armagh) to lift the coveted NI Boccia Champions Shield for 2008. The competition which took place on Mon 4th Feb '08 at Lough Moss Rec. Centre, Carryduff saw 28 teams from around NI battle for the title. Teams from Newry, Castlereagh, Portadown, Craigavon, Moy, Armagh, Dungannon, Holywood, Downpatrick & Belfast entered the 1 day competition, which is aimed at encouraging more people with disabilities to participate in active pastimes. Each of the 3 player teams (at least 1 player has to have a disability) played a number of preliminary matches before the Quarter Final line-up was decided: QTR- FINALS X-Men 0 Willowbank 5 Reconnect 1 Station Rd 4 Navara Boys 8 Amigos 0 Vote Vixens 4 Spooks 1 SEMI_FINALS Willowbank 3 Vote Vixens 1 Station Rd 3 Navara Boys 2 3rd/4th PLAY-OFF Navara Boys 5 Vote Vixens 1 FINAL STATION RD 3 WILLOWBANK 4 The final turned out to be a very tense affair with Station Rd going into a 3-0 lead after the 1st end, but Willowbank came back, winning 1-0 in the 2nd end and amazing pulling out a 2-0 win in the 3rd end, leaving the score tied at 3-3. The match was decided on a 1 ball play-off, with Willowbank coming through with the winning shot to take the title with a 4-3 victory. Well done to all involved, and a thank you to the Castlereagh Borough Council Community Sports Dev Unit for making the tournament run so smoothly and to Castlereagh's Lady Mayoress Morave Chambers for presenting the medals and trophies. Other Scores: Reconnect1 3 Down Diamonds 1 Moy2 3 Amigos 4 X-Men 7 Johnston Jokers 0 Reconnect1 2 Amigos 5 Down Diamonds 0 X-Men 4 Moy2 1 Johnston Jokers 3 Loughview Ladies 2 Willowbank 4 High Flyers 1 Navara Boys 5 Gifted 0 Vote Violets 5 Mountview Miracles 1 Navara Boys 3 Willowbank 3 Gifted 0 High Flyers 2 Vote Violets 1 Reconnect2 4 Evergreens 0 Vote Victors 0 Jets 7 Spooks 4 Vote Victors 0 Superstars 0 Reconnect2 6 Station Rd1 0 Spooks 4 Jets 2 Superstars 3 Struelle Stars 2 Station Rd2 3 Moy1 3 Bannvale Bears 2 Johnston Jollys 1 Vote Vixens 4 4 Steps 4 Struelle Stars 3 Station Rd2 3 Johnston Jollys 2 Moy1 1 Vote Vixens 4 Bannvale Bears 3 4 Steps 1 Reconnect1 3 Vote Violets 3 Mountview Miracles 1 Loughview Ladies 5 Station Rd1 3 Evergreens 2 Moy2 5 High Flyers 4 Mountview Miracles 0 Down Diamonds 8 Johnston Jollys 0 Vote Victors 5 Johnston Jokers 2 Loughview Ladies 1 Station Rd1 1 4 Steps 4 Evergreens 4 Struelle Stars 0 Superstars 0 Moy1 4 Jets 8 Bannvale Bears 2

Title:  NEW GLIDING DATES FOR 2008 Date:   29th January News Details: Ulster Gliding Club As reported previously the Ulster Gliding Club introduced to its fleet on 26th June 2007 a new high performance training glider which is equipped with special hand controls that make it suitable for flying by both able-bodied and by those with disabilities of the lower limbs. Then during August and September of last year the Club encouraged groups of people with various disabilities to come by special arrangement to Bellarena and experience the joy of gliding in the magnificent surroundings of the North Coast. So successful was the uptake of this offer that this year the Club has set aside 28 weekdays to enable pre-planned groups of those with disabilities to come and fly the new glider in the company of one of the Club’s highly qualified gliding instructors. Gliding dates: April 2008 Wednesday 2, 9, 16, 23 + 30 Friday 4, 11, 18 + 25 May 2008 Wednesday 7, 14 + 21 Friday 2, 9, 16 + 23 June 2008 Wednesday 25 July 2008 Wednesday 2, 9 + 30 August 2008 Wednesday 6, 13, 20 + 27 September 2008 Wednesday 3, 10, 17 + 24 In general, on any given Wednesday or Friday it is possible to fly four to six persons during the course of the day. The cost per person is £40 and in order to book one of the above dates or to enquire further please contact Jim Weston at your earliest convenience Email: jamesweston1@btinternet.com; Tel: 02870358196; Mobile: 07717473840). Please note that at 24th January six dates had already been booked: 4/4; 9/4; 16/4; 23/4; 7/5; 14/5. Dr J Weston 24th January 2008

Title:  MIXED FORTUNES FOR KNIGHTS TEAMS Date:   29th January News Details: On the weekend of 26/27 Jan '08 the Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club fielded teams in 2 different levels of competition with mixed success. The Knights Senior team who compete in Division 1 of the GB Wheelchair Basketball League, had 2 home fixtures - On saturday they were up against a team from the North-East of England in the shape of Newcastle Sharks, this promised to be a close affair and thats exactly how it panned out. The Knights played some good basketball but in fits and starts while Newcastle went with their tried and trusted method of utilising Forward Terry Bywater as much as possible. Bywater is a phenomenon and in the game he scored an incredible 40pts, including 2 pointers from ridiculous angles, 3 pointers and 100% shooting from the free throw line. In the end the scoreline of 58-63 in favour of Newcastle showed the competitive nature of the game, bur Mr Bywater was the difference. On the Sunday the Knights Senior Team played host to Sheffield Steelers, who have a number of past GB players in their ranks and although the Knights started well jumping into an 8-0 lead, the experienced Sheffield team gradually found their shooting range and proceeded to give the Knights a lesson in team play & shooting. The final score finished 50-81 for Sheffield. On a more positive note, the Knights Junior team who compete in the GB Junior League travelled to Birmingham for the 2nd Rnd of the League. The Juniors who are all under 16 yrs of age (including 1 8 yr old and 1 10 yr old) produced some fine displays defeating Junior outfits from London, Aylesbury, Mansfield & Wolverhampton to record stats of 4 wins out of 4 for the weekend. These victories mean that the Juniors are virtually assured of their place in the April Play-Offs.

Title:  BELFAST DEAF UTD REACH SEMI-FINALS OF BRITISH DEAF CUP Date:   29th January News Details: BELFAST Deaf United progressed to the semi-finals of the British Deaf Cup after a hard fought win against their Everton counterparts last Saturday evening. Played at the magnificent Ashfield Boys High School third generation artificial grass surface in East Belfast, BDU from the Down Area Winter League made an explosive start taking the lead in only the third minute, a great through ball from captain Eoin Cluskey split the Everton defence allowing Brian Babb to flick the ball past the advancing keeper sparking jubilant celebrations amongst the large BDU support. The Belfast side continued to dominate the opening exchanges with Chris Jones almost connecting with a tantalising cross from Richard Beattie and Roy McKee having two attempts blocked by desperate Everton defending following a couple of Cluskey corners. As the half progressed the more physical Everton team began to impose themselves more on the game and BDU were indebted to a fine reflex save from keeper Conor Mervyn in the 25th minute. The blustery conditions were making good football difficult but the game was lit up by a superb nine man passing move involving Eoghan Fee, Stephen Hesketh, McKee and Richard Dougherty ending with Babb sticking the ball in the back of the net only for the linesman’s flag to intervene. BDU finished the half strongly with Dougherty almost putting Babb through and Noel O’Donnell’s rasping long range free kick shaving the wrong side of the crossbar. Half-Time: Belfast Deaf UTD 1 – 0 Everton Losing the influential Dougherty to injury at half-time was a blow to BDU but substitute Adam McCormick settled quickly with the inspirational Beattie and McKee now dominating the midfield battle. A number of slick interchange passing moves involving Beattie, McKee, Babb and Jones saw BDU regularly open up the Everton defence only to be thwarted on five separate occasions by magnificent saves from the Everton goalkeeper. As the game entered its latter stages Everton pressed forward in search of an equaliser but the BDU defence superbly marshalled throughout by Barry Campbell and O’Donnell stood firm, with Mervyn dealing confidently with everything that came his way. The final whistle was greeted with relief and delight by the BDU Contingent. They now travel to England to play the winners of St. John’s Arsenal or Fulham in the semi-final on a date still to be confirmed. Speaking after the game BDU player manager Barry Campbell praised the professionalism and battling qualities of his side, and looked forward with optimism to the next round: “The semi-final will be a tough game but if we perform to our full potential we are certainly in with a decent chance,” said Campbell. BDU would like to thank the IFA and Ashfield Boys High School for their support and also the Holiday Inn Belfast for their recent sponsorship of the Club. Full-Time: Belfast Deaf UTD 1 – 0 Everton

Title:  KNIGHTS FACING 2 TOUGH BATTLES Date:   23rd January News Details: On Sat 26 + Sun 27 Jan '08 are crucial dates for the Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team competing in the Great Britain 1st Division. Their opponents on Saturday 26th, are Newcastle Sharks, the Toon team beat the Knights in the North-East earlier this season, so the Knights will be looking for home advantage to work for them. Tip-Off at Antrim Forum 1.30pm On Sunday 27th, the Knights face a stiff challenge when the Sheffield Steelers team will visit the Antrim Forum. Tip-Off 2.30pm Come along and watch some spoke bending action and give the NI lads your support. FREE ENTRANCE

Title:  Cycling Ulster set up Disability Commission Date:   17th January News Details: Cycling Ulster set up Disability Commission A new commission was set up in December 2007 within Cycling Ulster to promote and develop disability cycling in the province. The commission hopes to develop cycling both on a leisure and competitive basis, and will liaise closely with cycling clubs throughout Ulster to promote disability cycling. At present the physical disabilities aimed at will be those covered by the International Paralympic Committee. These include tandem cycling for those with sight loss, locomotor disorders such as upper and lower limb amputees or those who have reduced joint mobility or weakness, cerebral palsy and hand cyclists for wheelchair users. The commission will be headed up by Andrew and Emma Fitzgerald from Warrenpoint. Andy and Emma are both visually impaired and have been tandem cycling for some years. They are both members of the Irish Paralympic squad, and have represented Ireland at international competitions both in road and track events. Speaking recently about the new commission, Andrew commented. ` it is a new venture for Cycling Ulster, and we are proud to be involved with the development of disability cycling in Ulster. Cycling is a highly enjoyable activity with numerous physical and psychological benefits. We at cycling Ulster wish to make cycling an accessible sport for all physical disabilities, and our involvement with the Irish squad has enabled us to foster links with many organisations and clubs which will help in our endeavours.` Andy will chair the commission and his wife Emma is secretary. Emma added `we would love to hear from any individual who has a physical disability and who is interested in cycling. We will do whatever is possible to enable them to take up the sport, either as a leisure activity or on a more competitive basis.` Anyone interested please contact Andy or Emma on 02841752556 or e-mail on andy@conallphysio.wanadoo.co.uk

Title:  ARCHERY FOR BEGINNERS - SIGN UP NOW Date:   15th January News Details: DSNI has linked up with Kilmore Archery Club to offer Archery sessions for people with disabilities. Go into the 'Whats On' section on this website to read more......... Archery sessions are: Tuesday 15th January ’08 11:00am – 12.30pm Or 2pm – 3.30pm limited number of places (8 – 10 people per session) if you have a specific question relating to the suitability of the sessions for certain types of disability, please contact Wellesley McGown at the Archery Centre. 38326987 In the meantime if you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Aubrey Bingham, Disability Sports NI Development Officer on tel- 9050 8255

Title:  FATHER & SON PICK UP DSE AWARDS AT MAN UTD Date:   9th January News Details: Congratulations to father and son Eugene and Niall McVeigh who were regional winners at the recent DSE (Disability Sports Events) Awards. The duo travelled to Manchester Utd Football Club on 5th December 07 where Niall picked up his award for NI Regional Sports Person for his achievements at the 2006 National Junior Athletics Championships while Eugene collected the NI Regional Volunteer Award for his development work with the NI Disability Squad and the Dwarf Athletics Assocaition.

Title:  GET ACTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY - CASH GRANT AWARDS Date:   4th January News Details: The Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland are currently promoting their Get Active in the Community Grant scheme. The scheme is aimed at supporting local community and voluntary groups who are planning locally based physical activity programmes with people with disabilities being one of the main priority groups. Application forms are available through the Health Promotion Agency website www.getalifegetactive.com or through your local health board physical activity co-ordinator. Applications have to be completed by the 7th April '08, and projects must take place between May - Dec '08. Completed application forms should be sent to the following address only. Get Active in the Community Cash Grant Awards The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland Grant Administrators Community House Citylink Business Park Albert Street Belfast BT12 4HQ

Title:  KNIGHTS WIN CLOSE BATTLE Date:   3rd December News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team came back from 20-31 down at Half-Time to win a thrilling GB Division 1 encounter v's Liverpool Greenbank. The match was played in Newtownabbey at the Valley Leisure Centre and turned out to be a battle and a superb advertisement for Wheelchair Basketball. The Liverpool team started well, racing into a 6 pt lead with their 2 GB squad members, Ade Oregbemi & Abdi Jamaa pulling thestrings. The Knights gradually got into the game but were finding the going tough against the fast and agile Merseysiders. At the h/t break Liverpool were in a commanding 20-31 lead. The Knights knew what they had to do in the 2nd period as they had clawed back deficits like this before. So with greater focus on picking and targeting the Liverpool outside shooters the Knights started chiping away at the lead and after a magnificent 3rd qtr display with Paul 'Nelson' McKillop converting some tough baskets and Jason 'Kirby' Kennedy finding his shooting touch, the scores were even at 43-43. The Knights high work rate paid dividends in the final quarter and the Knights finished the match in control, winning 61-57. Knights Line-Up: Jason Kennedy 22pts, Paul McKillop 15pts, Paul Gallagher 10pts, Chris O'Neill 6pts, David McAleese 8pts, Davy Young & Jamie Odgers

Title:  LIMEGROVE SCHOOL, LIMAVADY WIN NI BOCCIA TITLE Date:   30th November News Details: The inaugural NI Special Schools Boccia Championship, organised by Disability Sports NI & Antrim Borough Council Sports Development Dept. took place at Antrim Forum Sports Centre, Antrim on Thurs 29 Nov. 21 teams from various Special Schools around NI entered the competition with the final results coming out: SEMI-FINALS Snickers (Limegrove, Limavady) 7 Erne Eagles (Enniskillen) 3 Sandelford Herons (Coleraine) 6 Longstone Stars (Belfast) 0 3rd/4th Play-Off Erne Eagles 2 Longstone Stars 3 FINAL Snickers 3 Sandelford Herons 1 Thanks to Nick Heard (CCEA) for attending and presenting Medals & trophy.

Title:  New Club for people with Disabilities in Lisburn Date:   28th November News Details: A new Multi Activity Club will be starting in Lisburn in January 2008. The Club is aimed at attracting people with disabilities in the Lisburn and will feature a range of exciting activities such as New Age Kurling, Table Top Games, Boccia & Swimming to name but a few. The idea is that participants will be able to influence which activities they would like to see on the programme. This is a pilot project through Lisburn City Council Sports Development Department and its success will depend on local people with disabilities supporting it by participating in the sessions. Each session will have a nominal £1 or £2 charge just to cover some of the activity leaders costs. For further information, Contact Conleth Donnelly 92509250

Title:  KNIGHTS JUNIORS MAKE IMPACT Date:   27th November News Details: The Knights Junior team, which features players under 16 yrs of age, made an impressive start to their 2007/08 GB Junior League (Southern Section) Campaign at Stoke Mandeville, Aylesbury, 24th Nov. The Young'uns had a tough 4 match schedule against opposition from differents parts of England. After an exhausting day the young Knights had chalked up 3 victories out of the 4 matches, beating Wolverhampton Rhinos Jnrs, South England Jns & Aldershot Jnrs and finally succumbing to favourites for the Southern Section title, Bury Bombers. James MacSorley, Geordi Wallace, Cameron Cambell, Zara Lusty & Eimear MacSorley all played their part in securing this excellent start. Next Round of matches in the GB Junior League will be in Birmingham 27th Jan '08

Title:  OUTWARD BOUND COURSE Date:   23rd November News Details: Belfast Activity Centre is currently organising an Outward Bound Course for a group of ten young disabled people aged between 14 and 24. Venue: Outward Bound – Ullswater, Lake District Date: Sunday 6th – Friday 11th April, 2008 Cost: The cost of the Course will be £200.00 (covers boat, bus hire, food, equipment, instructors and Course). Normally the Course alone would be £365.00 but due to a bursary from the N.Ireland Outward Bound Association and the UK Outward Bound Association this cost has been reduced dramatically. Activities: The Course will be a week long (Sunday to Friday) multi-activity programme. Activities will include: canoeing, rock climbing, ropes course, teambuilding games etc. If you are interested or have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact myself, Nicola Campbell at Belfast Activity Centre on 02890 600132 or email: nicola.campbell@belfastactivitycentre.com

Title:  Northern Ireland UNDER 15's claim 5th place at UK Regional Juniors Tournament Date:   19th November News Details: The NI Under 15s Wheelchair Basketball team have returned home with a very creditable 5th place in the UK Regional Junior Championships. The NI team started off with 2 defeat s against pre-tournament favourites North West England and v East Midlands, however the 1st day of competition ended on a high note with a thrilling 16-14 victory over South England A with young gun James MacSorley scoring 12pts. On the 2nd day of competition, the NI team were pipped by 6pts by East England, but finished off the tournament on a high with victory over South England B by 21 v 14. All the support staff commented on what a fantastic experience it was for the kids involved and are hopeful that they will be inspired to carry on their skills training and come back bigger and better next year. Team: Zara Lusty, Padraic Farrell, Eimear MacSorley, Conn Nagle, Jack Agnew, James MacSorley, Gareth Burton, Cameron Campbell & Charlie Cooke. Coach David McAleese Thanks are extended to Sport Northern Ireland for their support of the young NI team. The Championships is for 'regional' teams from around the UK. All the other teams at the competition have a distinct advantage over NI, in that they are picking from several local teams to make up a regional team, whereas there is only 1 team to pick from in NI. Also although its an Under 15 comp, the NI teams average age was 11 yrs old!

Title:  KNIGHTS MAKE SUPERB START IN IRISH LEAGUE Date:   19th November News Details: The Knights Development team travelled to Dublin for the 1st round of matches in the Irish League Wheelchair Basketball Division 2 on Sun 18th Nov. All the matches in the league are organised through the Southern based - Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), with all games played at the IWA complex in Clontaf, Dublin, so effectively all matches are away games for the Knights. The Development team is a mixture of Junior & Senior players and they certainly gelled well in their first competitive outings, beating Dublin Trailblazers 56 -10 with new player Calvin Watson from Ballynahinch scoring an incredible 21pts ably assisted by Jamie Odgers (Richhill) 14pts and Geordi Wallace (Broughshane) 14pts. In the Knights 2nd game, they defeated Galway Titans by 30pts with Jamie, Geordi and Calvin all getting an impressive pts tally. Knights Development Team: Calvin Watson, Jamie Odgers, Paul McLister, Andy Ryan, Daniel Black, geordi Wallace & Steven McAleese

Title:  DSNI SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 Date:   14th November News Details: LAGAN VALLEY LEISUREPLEX, LISBURN 10 NOV ‘07 Mixed 25 SC Metre Backstroke S1-S6 =========================== 1 Wallace, Geordi 42.25 2 Marshall, Luke 44.15 3 Johnston, Adam 55.62 Mixed 25 SC Metre Backstroke S7-13 =========================== 1 Dempster, Toni 26.84 2 Cunningham, Edel 31.00 -- Valllelly, Sean DQ Mixed 25 SC Metre Backstroke S14/15 ============================== 1 Meldrum, Ellen 22.00 2 Firth, Bethany 22.14 3 McKenna, Aoife 24.59 4 Gillen, Ryan 25.09 5 Martin, Adam 25.43 6 Sproule, Tyrone 25.68 7 Doherty, Lee 26.62 8 Stockdale, Greame 28.33 9 Welsh, Andrew 28.87 10 Caldwell, Nathan 28.90 11 Williams, Billy 30.00 12 Field, Paul Michael 31.46 13 Aiken, Rachel 31.93 14 Campbell, Sean 31.96 15 Martin, Jack 33.12 16 Watson, Anne Marie 33.31 17 Ferguson, Colleen 33.56 18 Nolan, Kate 34.09 19 Moore, Dale 34.46 20 Greehy, Ben 35.54 21 Crawford, Matthew 35.62 22 Magee, Katrina 38.09 22 Boone, Richard 38.09 24 Scott, Dale 38.65 25 Traynor, Agnes 39.53 25 Lindsay, Andrew 39.53 27 Chalmers, Emma 43.81 28 Carlisle, Emma 45.40 29 Murray, Thomas 46.46 30 Greggory, Fergal 1:21.61 Mixed 25 SC Metre Breaststroke S1-S6 ============================= 1 Wallace, Geordi 35.68 2 Burns, Austen 1:00.09 3 Marshall, Luke 1:01.50 4 Quinn, Naoishe 2:00.75 Mixed 25 SC Metre Breaststroke S7-13 ============================= 1 Woodside, Rachel 29.93 2 Anderson, Larry 50.72 Mixed 25 SC Metre Breaststroke S14/15 =============================== 1 McCarron, Conor 26.53 2 Martin, Jack 29.65 3 Cahill, Manus 32.03 4 McKeown, Christine 34.09 5 Traynor, Agnes 36.25 6 Welsh, Andrew 39.34 7 Nolan, Kate 45.15 8 Lindsay, Andrew 47.00 9 Haveron, Chakira 48.25 10 McKeown, Sean 48.28 11 Magee, Katrina 1:07.03 Mixed 25 SC Metre Butterfly S1-S6 ========================== 1 Marshall, Luke 1:04.71 Mixed 25 SC Metre Butterfly S14/15 ============================ 1 Rea, Jamie 17.75 2 Gordon, Gemma 22.93 3 McCarron, Conor 23.18 4 Carroll, Gary 24.03 5 Cahill, Manus 27.43 Mixed 25 SC Metre Freestyle S1-S6 =========================== 1 MacSorley, James 22.62 2 Wallace, Geordi 35.62 3 Johnston, Adam 45.40 4 Marshall, Luke 50.84 5 Burns, Austen 1:07.87 6 Quinn, Naoishe 2:06.18 Mixed 25 SC Metre Freestyle S7-13 ========================== 1 Archibald, Ryan 16.62 2 Goldrick, John 21.68 3 Dempster, Toni 22.43 4 Woodside, Rachel 22.53 5 Cunningham, Edel 32.15 6 Topping, Richard 32.59 7 McIlhagger, Lisah 55.28 8 Valllelly, Sean 2:02.71 Mixed 25 SC Metre Freestyle S14/15 ============================== 1 Hamilton, James 18.80 2 Scott, Dale 19.37 3 Dodds, Cormac 19.56 4 Firth, Bethany 19.65 5 Doherty, Lee 20.11 6 McCarron, Conor 20.53 7 Caldwell, Nathan 20.56 8 Carroll, Gary 20.62 9 Gillen, Ryan 20.65 10 Martin, Adam 20.68 11 Greehy, Ben 21.03 12 Eastwood, Gerard 21.90 13 Campbell, Sean 22.46 14 Patton, Philip 22.50 15 Martin, Jack 22.93 16 Williams, Billy 24.12 17 Stockdale, Greame 24.65 18 Welsh, Andrew 25.13 19 Sproule, Tyrone 25.46 20 Watson, Anne Marie 26.40 21 Aiken, Rachel 26.74 22 McDowell, Aaron 26.96 23 Magee, Katrina 27.18 24 Doherty, Daniel 27.34 25 Lindsay, Andrew 28.35 26 Cahill, Manus 28.90 27 Crawford, Matthew 28.93 28 Moore, Dale 29.00 29 Cunning, Kevin 29.28 29 Traynor, Agnes 29.28 29 Crockett, Curtis 29.28 32 Gamble, Jordan 29.37 33 Field, Paul Michael 29.56 34 Noel, Connor 29.71 35 Chalmers, Emma 31.50 36 Haveron, Chakira 31.65 37 McNicholl, Jesse 31.96 38 Carlisle, Emma 32.93 39 Ferguson, Colleen 34.16 40 Murray, Thomas 34.50 41 McNicholl, Paul 34.55 42 Stewart, Darren 35.68 43 Goad, Peter 35.78 44 Breen, Ciaran 36.28 45 Nolan, Kate 39.03 46 Lynch, Caolan 39.34 47 McKeown, Sean 39.65 48 Diak, Gareth 39.71 49 McGuigan, Stephen 40.09 50 McDonald, Catherine 43.25 51 Davidson, Matthew 45.40 52 McClory, Connor 48.71 53 Johnston, Ellyn 51.11 54 Connery, Jill 58.90 55 Greggory, Fergal 1:03.13 56 Rickard, Mark 1:03.53 57 Evans, Jonathan 1:19.96 Mixed 50 SC Metre Backstroke S1-S6 ============================ 1 McDonald, Darragh 54.82 2 MacSorley, Eimear 1:35.41 Mixed 50 SC Metre Backstroke S7-13 ============================ 1 McGivern, Lawerence 36.88 2 Goldrick, Aggie 55.36 3 Kenny, Claire 1:07.72 4 Cunningham, Edel 1:14.05 Mixed 50 SC Metre Backstroke S14/15 ============================== 1 Rea, Jamie 42.73 2 Gordon, Francis 50.77 3 Martin, Adam 52.71 4 Meldrum, Ellen 53.33 5 Maguire, Desmond 53.46 6 Murray, Kevin 58.74 7 Hawe, Danielle 1:00.62 8 Caldwell, Nathan 1:02.62 9 Doherty, Lee 1:03.22 10 Campbell, Sean 1:06.87 11 Aiken, Rachel 1:10.83 12 Gillen, Ryan 1:15.06 13 Eccles, Matthew 1:18.80 14 Hardaker, Siobhan 1:20.87 15 Moore, Dale 1:23.53 16 Stockdale, Greame 1:29.59 17 Breen, Ciaran 1:36.84 18 McConville, Carla 1:42.45 Mixed 50 SC Metre Breaststroke S1-S6 ============================ 1 MacSorley James 1:26.87 2 Scully, James 1:30.30 3 MacSorley Eimear 1:41.91 4 Burns, Austen 2:18.38 Mixed 50 SC Metre Breaststroke S7-13 ============================ 1 Browne, Gareth 41.42 2 McGivern, Lawerence 46.77 3 Kenny, Claire 1:28.82 Mixed 50 SC Metre Breaststroke S14/15 =============================== 1 Hamilton, James 46.37 2 Connelly, Peader 53.55 3 Morris, Conor 54.89 4 Gordon, Barry 57.55 5 Murray, Kevin 1:03.68 6 Gordon, Gemma 1:10.39 7 Grant, Lewis 1:18.76 8 McKeown, Christine 1:35.37 9 Fegan, Denise 1:37.19 10 Breen, Ciaran 1:45.84 -- Rea, Jamie DQ Mixed 50 SC Metre Butterfly S14/15 ============================= 1 Bell, Matthew 31.17 2 Rea, Jamie 43.75 3 Meldrum, Ellen 55.89 4 Morris, Conor 1:00.90 5 Cahill, Manus 1:02.89 Mixed 50 SC Metre Freestyle S1-S6 ========================== 1 McDonald, Darragh 38.95 2 MacSorley, James 57.93 3 Scully, James 58.24 4 MacSorley Eimear 1:34.44 5 Wallace, Geordi 1:36.87 6 Burns, Austen 2:29.45 Mixed 50 SC Metre Freestyle S7-13 =========================== 1 Browne, Gareth 33.05 2 Archibald, Ryan 37.54 3 Goldrick, Aggie 50.06 4 Aiken, Rachel 1:02.34 5 Kenny, Claire 1:05.02 6 Cunningham, Edel 1:12.93 7 Topping, Richard 1:25.80 Mixed 50 SC Metre Freestyle S14/15 ============================== 1 Rea, Jamie 34.40 2 Hamilton, James 40.65 3 Gordon, Francis 41.25 4 Connelly, Peader 41.89 5 Gordon, Barry 42.76 6 Meldrum, Ellen 43.17 7 McKenna, Aoife 44.00 8 Morris, Conor 44.78 9 Hawe, Danielle 44.84 10 Murray, Kevin 45.25 11 Maguire, Desmond 46.16 12 Gordon, Gemma 46.60 13 Grant, Lewis 47.56 14 Gillen, Ryan 48.44 15 Caldwell, Nathan 49.45 16 Doherty, Lee 50.42 17 Campbell, Sean 50.72 18 Martin, Adam 51.09 19 Greehy, Ben 53.66 20 Scott, Dale 54.81 21 Eastwood, Gerard 55.22 22 Williams, Billy 55.67 23 Watson, Anne Marie 56.62 24 Stockdale, Greame 1:00.58 25 Doherty, Daniel 1:04.98 26 Lindsay, Andrew 1:05.06 27 Magee, Katrina 1:06.89 28 Cunning, Kevin 1:07.90 29 Moore, Dale 1:10.90 30 Fegan, Denise 1:11.64 31 Chalmers, Emma 1:17.13 32 Eccles, Matthew 1:19.79 33 Topley, James 1:20.10 34 Crawford, Matthew 1:23.88 35 Crockett, Curtis 1:23.97 36 Ferguson, Colleen 1:24.49 37 Hardaker, Siobhan 1:27.20 38 McGuigan, Stephen 1:30.41 39 Breen, Ciaran 1:31.68 40 Diak, Gareth 1:32.16 41 Welsh, Andrew 1:38.06 42 Palastanga, Kerry 1:51.36 43 McConville, Carla 1:52.41 44 Boone, Richard 2:01.00 45 Davidson, Matthew 2:32.75 Mixed 100 SC Metre Backstroke S1-S6 ============================= 1 McDonald, Darragh 1:55.39 2 MacSorley James 2:23.27 3 MacSorley, Eimear 3:21.11 Mixed 100 SC Metre Backstroke S7-13 ============================ 1 McGivern, Lawerence 1:18.25 Mixed 100 SC Metre Backstroke S14/15 ============================= 1 Connelly, Peader 1:54.73 2 Gordon, Francis 2:15.39 3 Hawe, Danielle 2:34.88 4 McConville, Carla 4:28.46 -- Eccles, Matthew DNF Mixed 100 SC Metre Breaststroke S1-S6 ============================== 1 Scully, James 3:26.39 Mixed 100 SC Metre Breaststroke S7-13 ============================= 1 Browne, Gareth 1:37.39 Mixed 100 SC Metre Breaststroke S14/15 ============================== 1 Hamilton, James 1:42.35 2 Morris, Conor 2:03.89 3 Gordon, Barry 2:07.46 -- McKeown, Christine DNF Mixed 100 SC Metre Butterfly S14 & S15 ============================= 1 Bell, Matthew 1:13.41 Mixed 100 SC Metre Freestyle S1-S6 =========================== 1 McDonald, Darragh 1:25.25 2 Scully, James 2:09.79 Mixed 100 SC Metre Freestyle S7-13 =========================== 1 McGivern, Lawerence 1:11.66 2 Browne, Gareth 1:16.61 3 Archibald, Ryan 1:22.03 4 Owen, Dean 1:22.17 Mixed 100 SC Metre Freestyle S14 & S15 ============================== 1 Connelly, Peader 1:33.48 2 Gordon, Francis 1:37.36 3 McKenna, Aoife 1:44.85 4 Gordon, Barry 1:48.79 5 Murray, Kevin 1:51.53 5 Gordon, Gemma 1:51.53 7 Hawe, Danielle 2:04.38 8 Grant, Lewis 2:05.26 9 Eccles, Matthew 2:52.03 10 Topley, James 2:53.00 Mixed 100 SC Metre Freestyle Relay Multi-Disability ============================= 1 Splash & Dash'A' 1:16.43 2 Armagh SO Club'A' 1:21.73 3 Newry Sportability 'A' 1:21.96 4 Erne Special School'A' 1:28.21 5 Ballymoney SO'A' 1:42.37 6 Splash & Dash'B' 1:46.46 7 Armagh SO'B' 2:06.55 8 Dolphins'A' 2:07.00 8 Splash & Dash 'C' 2:07.00

Title:  KILRONAN TAKE SPECIAL SCHOOLS NEW AGE KURLING TITLE Date:   25th October News Details: Kilronan School (Magherafelt) won the 2nd NI Special Schools New Age Kurling at Antrim Forum defeating the team from Beechlawn in a closely fought final 2-1. In the 3rd/4th Play-Off Mitchell House despatched St Gerards 3-0. 31 team from a variety of Special Schools throughout NI participated in the excellent event organised by DSNI and Antrim Borough Council Sports Dev Unit. Thanks to Janine & Elaine from Antrim Borough Council, Shannon & Yousra from RNIB, Elaine, Anita & Andy (DSNI) and Patricia Row from CCEA who presented the medals/trophies.

Title:  LONDON JOY for Northern Ireland VI (Visual Impairment) Team Date:   15th October News Details: TOURNAMENT SUCCESS FOR NI VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SQUAD The Northern Ireland Visual Impairment Squad won the inaugural Primary Cup held by the English based Football Association for the Visually Impaired. This indoor five-a-side competition took place at the Sobell Leisure Centre in Islington, London on 6/7 Oct. Despite tough opposition, the Northern Ireland lads played exceptionally well to defeat Swansea City, Tottenham Hotspur and London side, Thames Hamlett. Special mention goes to two of the younger players who made a huge impact on the day. Sixteen-year-old Luke Walsh of Belfast was outstanding in the semi final, scoring a hat-trick to help the lads to a fine 5-2 win against Swansea, and 16-year-old Conor Thompson who scored the winner in the Final from the penalty spot with the match tied at 2-2. Congratulations to all the players involved. This is an extraordinary feat for these budding football stars, in what is only their second major competition. The squad is coached by Alan Crooks and Mal Donaghy of the IFA Disability Football department. Well done lads! Northern Ireland squad: Niall Dempsey, Luke Walsh, Simon Gough, Conor Thompson, Brian Mc Master, David Telford, Stephen Elliot, Robbie Doherty. For further details on Visual Impairment football training, contact: Shannon Connolly at RNIB on 02890329393 or s.connolly@rnib.org.uk Hope the NI Team can emulate their heroics in Sweden on Wed night!

Title:  KNIGHTS FIND THE GOING TOUGH Date:   15th October News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team have lost their opening 2 matches in the Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball League - Division 1 Knights battled with Sheffield Steelers in their first game of the season, but although the local lads produced some bits of magic, they just couldnt do anything with the offensive threat of Sheffield forwards Ian Seger & Jonathan Hall. Knights 48 Sheffield 55 At the weekend the NI team travelled to Lancashire for a match up against the experienced Tameside Owls outfit. It proved to be an embarassing defeat for Knights with the game effectively lost in the 1st qtr with the score standing at 24-8. The Tameside team were scoring at will with the knights unable to get their offence into any sort of rhythm. At the end of a disappointing match from a Knights view, the final score read: Tameside 76 Knights 39 On 20th & 21st Knights have 2 away games v Wolverhampton and against St Helens.

Title:  Deaf Football Development Day Date:   8th October News Details: St. Columbs Park, Limavady Rd, Londonderry (Astroturf) Sunday 21st October 2pm - 4pm Boys and Girls 7+, with any level of Hearing Impairment Training Gear and Trainers Cost is FREE To Register, Text your Name and Age to: 07894614324

Title:  Could rowing be the right sport for you? Date:   4th October News Details: Redgrave, recently described the challenge of rowing as “doing the best you can with the physical attributes that you have.” Adaptive rowing gives you a chance to compete on level terms. It is the only sport to have fully inclusive World Championships, and – if you’re good enough – you can join in able-bodied rowing clubs and crews. But to row for your country, you need more than talent. You need the hunger to succeed. If you see yourself as a potential champion, contact the Amateur Rowing Association for selection information on 020 8237 6767 or www.ara-rowing.org Potential GB rowers are invited to attend open trials with successful applicants coached by leading international coaches as part of a world class high performance programme alongside GB Rowing’s Olympians at the new rowing lake at Caversham near Reading. To learn more visit www.worldrowing.com In Beijing in 2008, rowing will be included in a Paralympic Games for the fi rst time and GB Rowing’s adaptive squad is aiming to win gold. Adaptive rowing is for both men and women and offers opportunities for athletes with a disability to compete on their own, as a double or in a coxed four. Rowing calls for strength, stamina and balance. It’s not easy but in Beijing, or indeed in London in 2012, it could be you on the podium. Click here to Download...

Title:  Northern Ireland Swimming Championships Date:   3rd October News Details: Date: Saturday 10th November Venue: Lagan Valley LeisurePlex in Lisburn Disability Sports NI is currently organising the annual NI Swimming Championships. This year’s event is being held on Saturday 10th November 2007 at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex in Lisburn and for the first time will be supported by Nationwide. The event is designed to give people with disabilities the opportunity to take part in competitive swimming in a fun and exciting environment and is open to anyone with a physical, sensory or learning disability, who can swim at least 25 metres unaided. The event will be time banded as always, meaning swimmers will compete against others of similar standard, however this year the event will also be banded by class. This means that swimmers will be competing against others of a similar disability, as well as standard. Details on classification can be found attached to the entry form. To ensure swimmers are placed in the correct heat each entry must provide accurate times for the events they would like to compete in and details of their class. If no times are provided the swimmer will be placed in the fastest heat. If a competitor’s class is not known please provide a brief description of the swimmer’s disability. To enter the event simply complete an entry form and return to Disability Sports NI by Friday 26th October 2007, if you require an entry form please contact DSNI. Once your entry form has been received further details will be posted out. If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact the DSNI office.

Title:  Well Done Amigos!!! Date:   27th September News Details: 42 Teams battled it out for the winners medal in the New Age Kurling Championships, held in the Antrim Forum. The quarter finals were made up of 8 teams in which only 4 could go through and they were as follows; Young Ones v Amigos (Amigos) X-Men v Headstart 1 (X-Men) Spooks v Rathmore Eagles (Rathmore Eagles) Gifted v Vote Victors (Vote Victors) The semi-finals seen 4 strong teams fight for their place in the final with Vote Victors defeating Rathmore Eagles and the Amigos proving too powerful for the X-men. The Amigos faced Vote Victors in the final and resulted in a 3 : 0 win over the Victors. Would like to thank all the teams for participating in the Championship and hope to see you all again soon!

Title:  New Age Kurling Championships, Come to Antrim Date:   26th September News Details: Record entry of 44 teams. Thursday 27th September, 11am - 1.30pm, Antrim Forum

Title:  NI’s 1st BADMINTON CLUB EXCLUSIVELY FOR ATHLETES WITH LEARNING, SENSORY, OR PHYSICAL Disabilities Date:   17th September News Details: ULSTER BRANCH BADMINTON UNION OF IRELAND (UBBUI) INTRODUCING NORTHERN IRELAND’S FIRST-EVER BADMINTON CLUB EXCLUSIVELY FOR ATHLETES WITH LEARNING, SENSORY, OR PHYSICAL DISABILITIES THE ‘PAN-DISABILITY LISBURN BADMINTON CLUB’, ESTABLISHED BY THE UBBUI, IS OPEN TO ATHLETES THROUGHOUT NORTHERN IRELAND & LAUNCHES ON SATURDAY 6 OCTOBER 2007 AT 6.30 – 8.30pm AT THE NATIONAL BADMINTON CENTRE, CITY OF LISBURN RACQUETS CLUB, 36 BELFAST ROAD, LISBURN FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MEMBERSHIP FEES AND TO REQUEST AN APPLICATION FORM PLEASE CONTACT: TRACEY HUGHES ON 028 9258 8544 OR 07890229135. ALTERNATIVELY DETAILS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM DISABILITY SPORTS NI (DSNI) ON 028 9050 8255 AND 028 9050 8254 (TXTPH) PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS ARE WELCOME TO COME ALONG ON SATURDAY 6 OCTOBER 2007 AT 6.30PM AND TRY THE GAME OF BADMINTON BEFORE DECIDING TO JOIN

Title:  Local Athletes Compete in 2007 UK School Games Date:   31st August News Details: Congratulations to the Northern Ireland athletes who have just returned from the 2007 UK School Games in Coventry. Eimear and James MacSorley gave strong performances in the pool with James securing a 4th place finish in the 100m breaststroke with a time of 2.58.54 while Eimear achieved a time of 1.33.22 in the 50m freestyle and 3.23.85 in the 100m backstroke. David Spence, who was the only disabled athlete to represent Northern Ireland on the track achieved 4th place in his heat of the 200m wheelchair race to secure his place in the final where he finished 5th overall. This is the second year of the UK School Games which is aimed towards the UK’s most talented young athletes age 16 and under. The 4 day multi-sport event is designed to replicate major events such as the Paralympic Games.

Title:  Campbell wins silver at IBSA World Championships in Brazil Date:   30th August News Details: Stephen Campbell won the Silver Medal in the final of the 200 metres individual medley at the International Blind Sports (IBSA) World Games in Brazil, which took place from 1st-6th August 2007. Stephen followed his breakthrough performance at the IPC World Championships in Durban last December with this fine medal winning performance. Six swimmers competed in the final of the 200 metre individual medley. Stephen started in lane five and in the first 50m butterfly was neck and neck with the Spanish and Mexican swimmers. In the next 50m backstroke, Stephen moved into second place. The eventual winner, Enhamed Mohamed of Spain pulled away from the field, leaving the battle for the silver and bronze medal positions between Stephen and another Spaniard. Stephen's real strength came in the next breaststroke section where he worked hard and gained a few seconds on Eduardo Cruz of Spain. Stephen then pulled away in the final 50m freestyle section and came home in the silver medal position with a time of 2.57.02. Stephen also narrowly missed out on a medal in the men's 100m butterfly event with less than one second separating 3rd, 4th and 5th places. He did however have a personal best time in this event and the 50m freestyle. IBSA created the World Games to promote the integration of visually impaired athletes across the world. The cities of Sao Paulo and Sao Caetano do Sul in Brazil hosted 1,700 participants from 66 different countries throughout the event. Athletes competed in six sports including athletics, goalball, judo, swimming, powerlifting, and football.

Title:  1 Year Placement at Disability Sports NI Date:   22nd August News Details: If you are currently studying in a Sports/Leisure related course and are interested in a 1 year placement with DSNI. Please Contact Elaine Alexander - DSNI 90508255 or ealexander@dsni.co.uk for further information

Title:  DAANI 2009 World Games in Belfast Date:   14th August News Details: DAANI (Dwarf Athletics Association Northern Ireland Region) A new website has been launched by the DAANI to help promote the 5th Dwarf World Games which is being held in Belfast in 2009. To host this prestigious event is a fantastic coup for the local DAANI group and they are working hard behind the scenes in preparation for the event. Eugene McVeigh - DAANI says "We are very excited at being given the honour to host the 2009 Games and the website is an excellent way to promote the event" Check out www.daani.org for World Games information The first ever Dwarf World games were held in Chicago, USA in 1993, they then came to the Peterborough, UK in 1997. Toronto, Canada hosted the dwarf world games in 2001 and France in 2005. This is a truly unique opportunity for NI to host the 2009 world games and show DAANI and Belfast want to give NI dwarf athletes every opportunity to Compete with other Athletes from around the world. We would hope that events like this will encourage other family members with restricted growth conditions to get more involved in sports and then be able to compete in events like these with confidence. DAANI are at present working with DSNI and other sports bodies to help train our athletes for these major events it is also through these training programs that we hope that our athletes will at least get the chance to qualify for the Paralympics London 2012.

Title:  Ulster Badminton announces new Pan Disability Badminton Club Date:   12th August News Details: Over the summer months the Ulster Branch Badminton Union of Ireland has been working hard to establish Ulster’s first disability badminton club. With 2 successful tasters days held at Lisburn Racquet club with over 50 participants coming along to try the sport, UBBUI has announced the first night of training to be on Saturday 6th October from 6.30 -8.30pm at Lisburn Racquets Club. Training will be held on a weekly basis and all sessions will be run by qualified badminton coaches. The club is open to anyone with a disability who is interested in taking up the sport of badminton at either a recreational or competitive level and is open to all ages. If you would like to get involved in the club please contact Tracey Hughes on 07890229135. Volunteers Wanted Ulster Badminton is currently looking for volunteers to help out at their new Pan Disability Badminton Club. The first night of training will be held on Saturday 6th October at Lisburn Racket Club from 6.30 – 8.30pm and will run on a weekly basis through until April. If you could like to get involved or would like further information please contact Tracey Hughes on 07890229135.

Title:  BADMINTON TASTER SESSION FOR ANYONE WITH A DISABILITY Date:   10th August News Details: MAYBE YOU WOULD LIKE TO RETURN TO A SPORT YOU ONCE PLAYED? DO YOU WANT TO HAVE FUN? ULSTER BRANCH BADMINTON UNION OF IRELAND PRESENTS BADMINTON TASTER SESSION FOR ANYONE WITH A DISABILITY AT CITY OF LISBURN RACQUETS CLUB ON SATURDAY 11 AUGUST 2007 2-5pm Open to those aged 8 years of age and over (no upper limit), Male and Female, and all disabilities Registration & participation is FREE and is offered on a 'First Come, First Served' basis. Each participant will be assigned to a 1 Hour session. For further details Contact TRACEY HUGHES 07890229135 or 92588544 Alternatively details may be obtained from Disability Sports NI 90508255 and 90508254 (txtphone) as well as the Ulster Badminton office 90383810 Closing date for return of completed registration forms is FRIDAY 27 JULY 2007

Title:  DISABLED RAMBLERS NI Date:   25th July News Details: The Disabled Ramblers NI next rambles will be on SUNDAY 5th AUGUST '07 in An Creagan, OMAGH. & SUNDAY 19th AUGUST '07 in the ULSTER FOLK & TRANSPORT MUSEUM For further details Contact Vonnie McWilliams at Shopmobility Belfast - Tel 9080 8090

Title:  NI DISABILITY ATHLETICS SQUAD GIVE UK ATHLETES A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY Date:   24th July News Details: NI DISABILITY ATHLETICS SQUAD GIVE UK ATHLETES A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY Northern Irelands first ever disability athletics squad demonstrated their speed and strength last weekend at the DSE UK National Junior Championships held in Blackpool. The squad of 8, who are all member of the NI Disability Athletics Squad brought home a total of 11 medals including 3 Gold after competing against over 400 competitors at the two day event. The squad who have been training at the Mary Peters Track, Belfast on a monthly basis in preparation for the largest junior disability athletics competition is run by NI Athletics Federation and supported by Disability Sports NI. Speaking on behalf of NI Athletics is Development Officer Jackie McKernan, ‘We are absolutely delighted with the performances of all the athletes. For many of the squad this was their first time competing at this level and the standard of competition at the event is very high so to secure 11 medals is a great achievement.’ Both days of competition seen Northern Ireland athletes on the podium with 7 medals won on day one and 4 medals on day two, with the squad accumulating a total of 104 points to put them in 11th place at the end of the competition. However for one squad member the highlight of the weekend was not only being awarded the Gold medal in the Javelin but also achieving a UK National Record. Niall McVeigh from Newry threw 16.68 meters to achieve the status of National Record Holder. For many of these athletes the UK National Championships is hopefully the first step towards International representation as explained by DSNI’s Competition and Performance Officer, Elaine Alexander, ‘The UK National Junior Athletics Junior Championships is one of the most prestigious events in the athletics calendar and without a doubt many of the participants involved in the weekend will go on to represent Great Britain at a Paralympic level, so for Northern Ireland athletes to claim medals and a National Record demonstrates the potential of our local athletes. With 2012 just around the corner it is vital that our athletes get the necessary support and opportunities and the programme provided by NI Athletics is doing just that’ Since returning home from competition the squad have returned to local competitions and will resume training again at the Mary Peters Track on Saturday 21st July 07. Medal Winners NAME EVENT MEDAL Niall McVeigh Javelin Gold - NR Niall McVeigh Shot Gold Luke Irvine 100m Gold Luke Irvine Javelin Silver David Cheng Long Jump Silver Luke Irvine Shot Silver Niall McVeigh 100m Silver David Spence 100m Silver David Spence 200m Silver Dean Stewart Long Jump Bronze Craig Sturgeon 100m Bronze Picture Caption NI Athletics squad picture alongside Coach Michael Smith and Escort Deborah Spence -Ends- Notes to Editor: Disability Sports NI is Northern Ireland’s unified disability sports organisation representing the vast majority of disabled sports people. For further information contact: Elaine Alexander of Disability Sports NI on 028 9050 8255

Title:  DEAF SWIMMING TEAM ANNOUNCED Date:   18th July News Details: The Ireland Team to compete at the 2nd World Deaf Swimming Championships 2007 has been announced: Ireland Swimming Team Alan Turner (Coach/Manager) John Kealy Vincent McArdle David McIlroy IDSA Official Ken Taylor (Swimming Director) To pass on your best wishes to the team, email us at info@irishdeafsports.net or text Ken Taylor 0044(0)7850892391 Your message will be relayed to the team! Visit our website: www.irishdeafsports.net http://w2007.ncpes.edu.tw

Title:  Visually Impaired Junior Cricket Club Date:   30th May News Details: Visually Impaired Junior Cricket Club For Blind or Partially Sighted children and their siblings ages 6-16 July and Aug 2007 One afternoon each week Venue and Day to be confirmed (Greater Belfast) Qualified Coach from Northern Ireland Cricket Association Adapted game and equipment to take account of sight difficulties If interested phone Kathy Milligan at RNIB NI 9032 9373 Click here to Download...

Title:  RNIB & Woodvale Cricket Club Family Fun Day Date:   30th May News Details: 6-a-side Cricket Barbeque Band Magic Show Linfield Team Face Painting and lots more... Click here to Download...

Title:  JUBILANT JANET IS THE WORLD CHAMPION.......FOR THE 4th TIME! Date:   23rd May News Details: Jubilant Blind World Ski Champ Returns to Belfast The newly crowned World Disabled Water Ski Champion Janet Gray MBE arrived home in Belfast today after winning the World Disabled Water Ski Championships for an amazing fourth time. The blind athlete who is funded by Sport Northern Ireland marked her comeback to the sport in magnificent style at the 2007 World Disabled Water Ski Championships held in Townsville, Northern Queensland, Australia, by winning gold in all three disciplines of ‘slalom’, ‘tricks’ and ‘jump’ and equalling her world record in the ‘tricks’ discipline. In addition Janet’s individual performance was pivotal in helping the British ski team win gold in the team section of the event. The performance is particularly remarkable considering that Janet only returned to the sport in July past, after a two and half year absence from the sport following a horrific training accident in Florida in which she sustained life threatening injuries. Despite the accident Janet was determined to ski again and her victory in Australia is the outcome of a two year long rehabilitation process overseen by a team of specialists at the Sports Institute for Northern Ireland at Jordanstown. Her victory at the World Championships was unexpected as Kevin O’Neill of Disability Sports NI explained: “Janet is a remarkably talented athlete who up until the time of her accident had totally dominated her sport. Although Janet sustained terrible injuries in her accident, knowing how determined she is, I was confident that Janet could compete in the Worlds again, but I don’t think anyone including Janet herself believed that she would perform to such a high standard and come home with a world title in all three disciplines. I’m simply delighted about her performance.” Commenting on Janet’s performance Professor Eric Saunders OBE, Chairman of Sport Northern Ireland said: “This is a tremendous achievement from one of Northern Ireland’s leading sports women and on behalf of Sport Northern Ireland we congratulate Janet. Janet has now become a role model inspiring and motivating many, both within her sport of Water Skiing and the wider sports community.”

Title:  FANCY TRYING GLIDING? Date:   8th May News Details: On Tuesday 26th June 2007, the Ulster Gliding Club (UGC) based at Bellarena, Near Limavady, will be unveiling their new K21 adapted glider, which has hand controls enabling those with a lower limb disability to experience the thrills of Gliding. If you would like to book a gliding slot on the 26th June, Tel Disability Sports NI 90508255 for details If this date does not suit but you are interested in Gliding, there will be several other Gliding dates available for people with disabilities, both at Bellarena and at St Angelo, Enniskillen, Contact DSNI for details

Title:  LOCAL SWIMMERS EXCEL AT NATIONAL DEAF SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   25th April News Details: 4 Local Deaf swimmers have returned from the National Deaf Swimming Championships, held on Saturday 21st April 2007 at Warwick University Pool with an impressive medal haul. The NI swimmers won 12 medals in total: RUTH KELLY - 3 Bronze JAMIE REA - 2 Bronze LISA KELLY - 4 Gold SARA KELLY - 2 Silver & 1 Bronze This is a major achievement for UDSC (Ulster Deaf Sports Council) as this was the first time they had taken young Deaf to a National competition and they are justifiably proud of the young athletes. Ken Taylor - IDSA Swimming Director The Irish Deaf Sports Association are currently on the lookout for potential swimmers who are interested in aiming for participation at DEAFLYMPICS in Taiwan in 2009: Deaf/Hard of Hearing? Interested in Learning to Swim? Interested in improving your swimming to International level? Our aim is to encourage our Deaf Young to improve their swimming to International standard for Deaflympics in Taiwan in 2009. Please contact by text message: Ken Taylor IDSA Swimming Director +44 (07850892391) or ken.taylor@southerntrust.hsci.net

Title:  FUNDING OPPORTUNITY Date:   18th April News Details: SPORT RELIEF FUNDING “Using sport to tackle the exclusion and isolation experienced by some of the poorest and most disadvantaged communities” Aims / Objectives of Sport Relief Grants Sport Relief was set up by Comic Relief and BBC Sport to use the power and passion of sport to tackle poverty and disadvantage Community organisations are invited to put forward proposals that plan to use sport to make a real and lasting impact on the lives of people who are clearly excluded or disadvantaged – and who have not been involved in sport Applications should show how the project has been planned and how the beneficiary group have been involved in planning the project. The beneficiaries must be people who are excluded or disadvantaged through low income, rural or social isolation, age, disabilities, race, sexuality or gender. The initiative should seek to prioritize initiatives that are grassroots based and are using sport and exercise as a means of addressing the needs of disadvantaged local neighbourhoods Projects will be prioritized that provide evidence of a sustained beneficial impact on the lives of people who are clearly excluded or disadvantaged. It is hoped that a number of initiatives addressing the needs of people aged over 60 years will be supported. Sports Relief Grants Funding Themes Projects seeking funding should identify how they address one of the two themes: Theme I increasing access to sport and exercise for people who face social exclusion and isolation; Theme II helping people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives to regain their confidence and self-esteem. Examples of Eligible Projects Theme(I): • A group of Asian women meeting for mutual support getting involved in keep fit or other sports activities • Movement to Music classes for isolated older people • A group of disabled people wanting to undertake sport or a club wanting to increase sporting opportunities for disabled people • A bowling club wanting to extend its activities to provide short mat bowling to older/disabled people in an area Examples of Eligible Projects Theme (II): • Women’s refuges wanting to undertake sport or exercise with the women or their children • People with mental health problems wanting to help rebuild their lives through sport • Refugees or asylum seekers using sport to help cope with traumatic experiences • Positive sport activities for children with behavioural problems • People with substance misuse issues using sport to aid recovery Who can Apply: Applications are sought from community organisations working with the more disadvantaged and excluded communities and groups. Proposals from this type of organisation rather than requests from sporting organisations for running costs will be prioritised. What funding will not cover: The criteria exclude funding the following: • to individuals; • to statutory organisations, including schools; • to fund trips abroad; • to fund buses, mini buses or other community transport schemes (not including transport costs forming part of a project); • to fund building costs, including access adaptations to buildings How much can one apply for: Grants will range from £1,000 - £10,000. It should be noted however that the total budget (In Northern Ireland) for 2007 is £60,000 and for 2008 is £60,000 When to Apply: Applications will be considered in 5 rounds. The closing date for each round is 4pm on the following dates: 23rd March 2007; 20th April 2007; 26th July 2007; 14th November 2007 and 5th March 2008. Further details and application forms are available from; Christina Vint or Cormac McAleer Community House Albert Street Belfast BT12 4HQ Tel 02890245927 email - cvint@communityfoundationni.org or cmcaleer@communityfoundationni.org Alternatively look at the web site; www.communityfoundationni.org

Title:  BASKETBALL AT TEMPLEMORE Date:   18th April News Details: The final round of the NI Wheelchair Basketball League took place at Templemore Sports Complex, Derry on Sat 14th April. The day organised through DSNI, Knights WBC, Derry City Council & Derry Healthy Cities saw 4 matches being played plus the opportunity for local disabled people to take part in a coaching session. SENIOR SECTION Knights WIZARDS 34 Knights GRIZZLIES 33 Knights CAVALIERS 38 Knights WIZARDS 50 DEVELOPMENT SECTION Knights PISTONS 20 Knights BULLS 35 Knights PISTONS 36 Knights LAKERS 28 For further information on Basketball opportunities in the Derry area: Contact: Fiona McCann - Derry Healthy Cities 71611384 or Teresa Bradley - Derry City Council 71361566 x6657

Title:  DISABLED RAMBLERS NI Date:   18th April News Details: The Disabled Ramblers NI organise a range of rambles throughout Northern Ireland. The group organise rambles at various locations around NI which have previously audited in terms of their access for people using mobility scooters. The first ramble in their 2007 season is on SUNDAY 20th MAY, at GOSFORD PARK, MARKETHILL with a scheduled start time of 11:30am Registering for the event is essential, to register or to find out further details about future rambles or the Disabled Ramblers group in general, Contact Disabled Ramblers (through Shopmobility Belfast) 90808090

Title:  UST Guidelines & Application Form Available Date:   12th April News Details: The Ulster Sports Trust Awards for People with Disabilities is an annual grants programme administered by Disability Sports NI and funded by the Ulster Sports Trust. The Programme provides talented individuals with disabilities between the ages of 12 and 21 with financial support towards preparation, training and competition costs. A ‘talented’ individual is defined as a sports person with the potential to compete at an international level or with distinction at British or Irish Championships. Grants will normally be in the region of £100-£500 per person but will not exceed 50% of total costs. Funding will not be awarded to training or competitions which have taken place prior to the appropriate closing date. Applications for funding can be made twice a year by completing and returning the attached form to Disability Sports NI by the following closing dates: Friday 4th May 2007 Friday 2nd November 2007 Applications which are not fully completed will not be considered. All application forms should be posted to the following address: Disability Sports NI Unit 6, Ormeau Business Park 8 Cromac Avenue Belfast BT7 2JA For further information and advice please contact the DSNI office: Tel: 028 9050 8255; Textphone: 028 9050 8254 Fax: 028 9050 8256 Click here to Download...

Title:  BADMINTON COACHING COURSE Date:   11th April News Details: Calling all Coaches and those interested in working in the area of Disability Badminton Coaching Badminton to those with a Disability Course, Baldoyle Badminton Centre 21st/22nd April Badminton Ireland is delighted to offer a further training opportunity geared towards increasing your awareness and skills when working with players with a disability. We are extremely fortunate to have a very experienced group facilitating this course which includes: Lyndon Williams – Welsh Badminton Union Jim McKay – Classification Officer for the International Badminton Association for the Disabled (IBAD) Norman Greenhouse and Fiona Reid – Disability Badminton Coaches with Welsh Badminton Union Dave Quarry – Wheelchair Badminton Player Nicola Tustain – CP Badminton Player The course will run from 10am – 6pm in Baldoyle Badminton Centre each day and over the course of the two days, participants will gain practical experience of Wheelchair Badminton, learn how to adapt fun games and activities for badminton to include those with a disability, learn about the rules for Disability Badminton for the various classifications and learn how to coach Disability Badminton. This is not a formal qualification but will benefit anyone coaching or interested in doing badminton with disability groups. The cost of this course is €30 per person which includes lunch on both days. If you would like to attend or have any questions about this course, please contact Mary Browne at the Badminton Ireland Office 01-8393028 or e-mail mary.browne@badminton.ie Places may be limited subject to demand and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

Title:  SPECIAL SCHOOLS SPORTS HALL ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 Date:   4th April News Details: The Annual DSNI Special Schools Sports Hall Athletics Championships took place on 13 & 14 March in Lisburn & L'Derry respectively. Special Schools from all over Northern Ireland were invited to enter teams into 1 of the Regional events. At this year's competitions, 33 Schools entered teams, with over 400 young people with disabilities getting the chance to try their hands at a range of Indoor Athletics disciplines i.e. Obstacle & Jigsaw Relay, Seated Ball Throw, Speed Bounce, Javelin & Target Throw. LISBURN MODERATE SECTION 1st ROSSTULLA (Newtownabbey) 2nd THORNFIELD HOUSE (Newtownabbey) 3rd HARBERTON (Belfast) SEVERE SECTION 1st HILLCROFT (Newtownabbey) 2nd LOUGHAN (Ballymena) 3rd LISANALLY (Armagh) L'DERRY MODERATE SECTION 1st SANDELFORD (Coleraine) 2nd BELMONT HOUSE (Derry) 3rd ERNE SCHOOL (Enniskillen) SEVERE SECTION 1st KILRONAN (Magherafelt) 2nd FOYLEVIEW (Derry) 3rd ELMBROOK (Enniskillen)

Title:  WATCH THIS SPACE for New DSNI 2007-2008 Events Calendar Date:   4th April News Details: New Exciting events calendar currently being produced. It will feature a range of sports and Leisure activities aimed at providing opportunities for people with disabilities to get involved at a participation level as well as a number of competitive opportunities. Watch this Space...................

Title:  DARRELL RACING THROUGH GRUELLING MARATHON SCHEDULE Date:   9th March News Details: Darrell's Competitions Schedule: 24 March Larne 1/2 Marathon 1 April Taunton Marathon 15 April Paris Marathon 22 April London Marathon 7 May Belfast Marathon Wheelchair Racer Darrell is pounding out the miles on the roads and pumping some iron in his his local gym in preparation for the events. Darrell says "My aim is to put in some impressive times and to better my current personal best, which sits at 2 hrs 19mins. I would also like to acknowledge the Front Page Inn, Ballymena for helping me out with some much needed funding" Good Luck Darrell and remember 'What goes Uphill, must come Downhill'

Title:  CRAIGAVON WATER SPORTS CENTRE OPEN DAYS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Date:   7th March News Details: Craigavon Watersports Centres’ Outdoor Pursuits for Disabled People Thursday 26th April, 10.30am to 1.30pm, Or Saturday 28th April, 1.30pm – 4.30pm Activities include: Costs £1.50 per session Sailing (10 people per session) Climbing (16 people per session) Kayaking (16 people per session) Cycling (16 people per session) Waterskiing (6 people per session) CWSC invites students with a disability to join them for a session of land or water based activities. Have a go at one or more of the above activities. Spaces are limited on the day, so book early by contacting Kelley on 02838-342669 or e-mail Kelley.rushton@craigavon.gov.uk Craigavon Watersports Centre, 1 Lake Road, Craigavon, BT64 1AS There are individual club sessions throughout the year and school group booking also available. £1.50 per person per session.

Title:  KNIGHTS EDGED OUT IN THRILLER Date:   7th March News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team just lost out to the high flying Sheffield Steelers in their latest GB League Match. The Sheffield team can boast 3 current GB Internationals as well as the former GB Team Coach in their ranks so this was always going to be a tough battle for the NI boys. But what a superb, gritty performance the Knights put in even though they were missing a couple of their regular starters. The intensity level for the whole match was breathtaking as both sides fought for the win. Sheffield held a slender 18-20 advantage after the 1st qtr. In the 2nd qtr the Knights just couldnt find their shooting rhythm as the Steelers went in with a 24-35 H/T lead. The 3rd qtr was very even but the Knights couldnt eat into the Sheffield lead however the Knights came out in the final qtr with some fantastic defensive work and with some fine outside shooting, but it was the Sheffield boys who were relieved to hear the final whistle. KNIGHTS 60 SHEFFIELD 67 Next GB League matches for the Knights : Sat 10th March v West of Scotland 2:30pm at Antrim Forum Sat 17th March v Newcastle 12:00 at Antrim Forum

Title:  New Season of Wheelchair Tennis Coaching Sessions Date:   7th March News Details: All sessions are held at - Ozone Indoor Tennis Centre, Ormeau Pk, Belfast Coaching Session times are as follows: BEGINNERS/JUNIORS SESSION 7-8pm Monday's starting 22nd Jan '07 INTERMEDIATE SESSIONS Time TBC Tuesday's starting 23rd Jan '07 ADVANCED SESSIONS Time TBC Thursday's starting 25th Jan '07 For further details on these sessions, Contact: IVOR JESS 94422248

Title:  ARCHERY CLUB for People with Disabilities in NEWTOWNARDS Date:   20th February News Details: A new Archery Club aimed at people with disabilities will be starting on THURSDAY 15th MARCH when an initial Open Night will be held. The Club will then run on consecutive Thursday nights from then on. The Open night on 15th March will run from 7 - 8.30pm at Ards Arena, South Street Newtownards. The night will consist of an unstructured come and try session with light refreshments provided etc. The club will run on Thursdays and be adult only (Over18's) initially with a view to a junior section over the forth coming months. FREE TO JOIN For Further Information Contact: Ryan Haire Link to Active Participation (L.A.P) 02891 827864 / 07760124163

Title:  KNIGHTS WIN ON THEIR TRAVELS Date:   13th February News Details: The Knights GB League team returned from their weekend travels with 1 win & 1 loss. On Saturday evening the Knights played Oldham Owls, Coach Kennedy knew it was going to be a tough battle as Oldham's line-up included both current & former GB internationals, the Knights fought & scrapped over every inch of the court but ended up on the wrong end of the 68-41 scoreline. On Sunday the Knights were up against Liverpool Greenbank, it was a 10am start but the Knights came out of the blocks quickly and opened up a commanding lead. There was no let up in intensity throughout the 4 quarters and Knights won with an impressive 93-31 scoreline. Next matches: SUNDAY 25th FEB - NI League Ards Leisure Centre 1-6pm, Various matches SATURDAY 3rd MAR - GB League Antrim Forum, v Sheffield Steelers 3pm SATURDAY 10th MAR - GB League Antrim Forum, v West of Scotland 2:30pm SATURDAY 17th MAR - GB League Antrim Forum, v Newcastle Sharks 12:00noon SATURDAY 14th APR - NI League Templemore Sports Complex, L'Derry 1-6pm various matches

Title:  SAILING, CANOEING, KAYAKING, WATER SKIING, CLIMBING & CYCLING Date:   13th February News Details: CRAIGAVON WATERSPORTS CENTRE (CWSC) have announced the dates for the 2007 Outdoor Pursuits for people with disabilities programme: Activities include: SAILING, CANOEING, KAYAKING, WATER SKIING, CLIMBING & CYCLING Groups and individuals can at anytime call to book in for a session with an instructor - Contact Kelley Tel: 38342669 DATES (TUESDAY'S 6:30pm - 8:30pm) May 8th & 22nd June 5th & 19th July 3rd & 17th Sept 4th & 18th (SATURDAY'S 10:00am - 12:00) May 12th & 26th June 9th & 23rd July 7th Aug 25th Sept 1st & 15th Cost £1.50 per person per session, £5.00 for accompanying person.

Title:  GIFTED TEAM SECURE NI BOCCIA TITLE Date:   5th February News Details: Craigavon Leisure Centre was the venue for the NI Boccia Championships on Sat 3rd Feb. Teams from Craigavon, Portadown, Lurgan, South Belfast, East Belfast, & Ballymena competed in the tournament which was aimed at promoting the sport among people with disabilities as each team had to have at least 1 player with a disability in their ranks. After several closely fought group matches, Bannvale, Gifted, Amigos, Finaghy, Ballymena SOC 2, Vote Victors, Chancers & Vote Violets progressed through to the Qtr-Finals. Gifted squeezed out Bannvale with a 4-2 scoreline, Amigos beat Finaghy 8-0, Vote Victors beat Ballymena SOC2 5-0 & the Chancers nudged past Vote Violets 2-1. In the Semi-Finals, 2 of the competition favourites, Gifted & Chancers met. The Chancers had defeated Gifted 5-3 & 4-0 in the group stage but Gifted exacted their revenge in a tense Semi-Final, eventually winning 3-0 to book their place in the final against Vote Victors, who beat the Amigos Team 5-3 in the other Semi-Final. Amigos came through 4-0 in the Bronze medal match by beating the Chancers 4-0. The final was a closely fought affair with the Gifted team just pipping Vote Victors in the final end to take the title. For further information on the Boccia tournament, please contact DSNI 1st GIFTED 2nd VOTE VICTORS 3rd AMIGOS 4th CHANCERS Thanks to Clare Dodds, Paul Careless, Nuala O'Connor, Colleen Murray, Clare Bell & Julie-Ann Kyle for their help

Title:  NI BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   30th January News Details: STOP PRESS: WE HAVE JUST 1 PLACE LEFT AT THE NI BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS BEING HELD ON 3rd FEB. IF YOU CAN ENTER A TEAM (which should include at least 1 player with a disability) PLEASE CONTACT DSNI ENTRY TO THE COMPETITION IS FREE

Title:  NEW DSNI 'ACTIVE' MAGAZINE Date:   30th January News Details: Keep a look out for the new and improved 'Active' magazine, which will be available in the next few weeks. Active is packed with articles from around NI, including how the NI Football team fared at the recent World Cup in Germany, Janet Gray's comeback to competitive Water-Skiing and how facilities and programmes for people with disabilities in Fermanagh have received a massive boost!!!!

Title:  ATTENTION ALL NORTHERN IRELAND SUPPORTERS Date:   16th January News Details: 15/01/2007 The IFA Grassroots Development Programme has teamed up with BBC NI, the RNIB NI, and the George Best Foundation to provide quality commentary to blind and / or partially sighted Northern Ireland Fans. Are you unable to see or do you have difficulty seeing the action at Windsor Park? Do you know any fans who have sight problems? Well this will no longer be a problem at NI Internationals and you won't have to rely on your mate to tell you what is happening. The IFA is introducing Soccer Sight at the Sweden game on 28th March. People with sight problems will be given an earpiece and will have the action audio described to them by a trained commentator - no need to leave your usual seat. Any blind or partially sighted people who are block bookers, ticket holders or who would like to start attending games due to this development should contact Barry Macaulay at RNIB NI 90329373 or e mail barry.macaulay@rnib.org.uk

Title:  HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL FROM DISABILITY SPORTS NI Date:   5th January News Details: The New Year sees some exciting developments at DSNI. New Inclusive Leisure Officer coming into post in Fermanagh...........Based at the Lakeland Forum working with local groups and setting up activity sessions for pwd in the area NI Boccia Championships............ Sat 3rd Feb @ Craigavon Leisure Centre, groups welcome to enter teams, contact DSNI 90508255 or Craigavon Borough Council Sports Development Unit Range of DSNI courses being held across Northern Ireland............courses in Dungannon, Newtownards, Derry, Belfast, Newry & Newtownabbey, for further information on the courses, contact DSNI ACTIVE magazine being relaunched Jan/Feb 2007............The magazine will include articles on Fermanagh IFI project, Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club, Work Out at the Waterfront Aerobathon, Sports Hall Athletics Competitions, NI Swimming Championships, Talented Athletes update, Janet Gray's comeback, Archery Development Sessions, Athletics Development Squad and much more, for more information or to find out how to include articles in the magazine, contact DSNI

Title:  FANCY TRYING YOUR HAND AT ARCHERY? Date:   20th December News Details: If Yes, then contact DSNI Tel: 90508255 or abingham@dsni.co.uk for full details and booking forms. The 'Introduction to Archery' sessions will take place on WEDNESDAY 17th JANUARY 2007 @ KILMORE ARCHERY CENTRE (3 mls from Moira village) There are 2 sessions available: 11am - 1pm aimed at those with Learning Disabilities 7:30pm - 9:30pm aimed at those with physical/sensory disability Both sessions will be overseen by experienced Archery Instructors and will feature an introduction to the facility, equipment familiarisation as well a Have-a-go session Cost is ONLY £5:00 per person! The places are filling up fast so get your places booked ASAP.

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND BOCCIA CHAMPIONSHIPS 2007 Date:   20th December News Details: Disability Sports NI will be organising the Championships in partnership with Craigavon Sports Development Department. Teams will be made up of 3 players (at least 1 of which must have a disability) Matches will be played to proper Boccia competition rules and all teams will have the opportunity to play a number of matches. If you would like to participate in the NI Boccia Championships, its very easy. Simply contact Disability Sports NI and register your interest, complete an event booking form and return it to DSNI before the entry deadline Tel: 90508255 or abingham@dsni.co.uk

Title:  Can't stop talking about FOOTBALL... Date:   5th December News Details: During a Grassroots Football Team building day at Tollymore, Newcastle Ian Stewart (IFA) put forward the idea of all the 16 Grassroots Development Officer and the 3 Grassroots Managers raising funds to provide transmitters and receivers for blind/ partially sighted people who wish to attend Northern Ireland Internationals. The scheme is well established at Clubs in England and Scotland. Without any hesitation all the Grassroots Development Officers and Managers agreed to give their time free to implement this idea. Further to this meeting Ian met with Norman Mc Narry (George Best Foundation), Barry Macaulay (RNIB, N.I) and Eleanor Ellison (RNIB, UK) to ask for their organisations support. After being given the support from the George Best Foundation and the RNIB we all met with Shane Glynn (BBC N.I) to ask if BBC N.I would run a competition to find two people who after training would be competent with commentating to blind/partially blind supporters at International matches and fortunately Shane and the BBC have given the Soocer Sight their full support. It is envisaged that the competition for two commentators will commence on Saturday 2nd Dec with the Soccer Sight Scheme offically being launched in March 2007 at the Northern Ireland v Sweden Euro 2008 qualifier. In the meantime there are plans to trial the equipment at the Linfield v Portadown game at Windsor Park on 20 January. The IFA/RNIB Junior Visually Impaired Football Club will attend the game and be the guinea pigs for the new equipment.

Title:  BEYOND BOUNDARIES III: ECUADOR Date:   30th November News Details: BEYOND BOUNDARIES III: ECUADOR We are looking for young people with disabilities to take part in an expedition of a lifetime In series 1 they crossed Central America from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific Ocean; series 2 you saw them conquer the African wilderness. Now the ‘Beyond Boundaries’ series on BBC2, wants to take you to the volcanic landscapes and dense rainforests of Ecuador. Diverse Bristol TV are now looking for applicants willing to go on a 4 week expedition in some of the most challenging, yet exciting terrain on earth. Are you an amazing young person? Do you want to take on this unique adventure? If you feel you are up to the challenge, are aged between 16 and 21 and can make yourself available for four weeks in March/April 2007, then please find an application form at www.diverse.tv , or you can contact us by phone, email or post and we will send you an application form: Phone: 0117 9069364 (ansaphone) Email: bbteam@diversebristol.tv Address: Beyond Boundaries Ecuador, Diverse Bristol, Fifth Floor, Embassy House, Queens Avenue, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1SB

Title:  SWIM STARS COMPETE FOR ROYAL MAIL CUP Date:   30th November News Details: The 2006 NI Swimming Championships was hosted as part of the Royal Mail Ready Willing and Able for Sports Programme on Saturday 11th November. Over 120 swimmers from throughout Ireland travelled to Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Lisburn to compete in the day long event. As well as attracting recreational swimmers competing for the first time, some of Ireland’s most promising young stars took to the water in search of medals. Commonwealth Games swimmer Johnny Cummings and fellow members of the Irish squad set the pace for the day, winning an abundance of medals and improving their PB’s but it was Dublin swimmer, Paul Byrne who lifted the Royal Mail overall winners cup, not only for having the best improved times but for the sportsmanship he displayed throughout the day.

Title:  MIXED FORTUNES FOR KNIGHTS IN GB LEAGUE Date:   23rd November News Details: Nottingham Jaguars 32 NI Knights 74 Sheffield Steelers 69 NI Knights 48 Jaguars Vs Knights Magnum Sports Centre 18th Nov 2006 This weekend saw the Knights face a double header against Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Jaguars who were first up on the Saturday. The game tipped at the Magnum sports centre with Knights fielding a different look line-up as coach Kennedy wanted to give some experience to his little used players. In fact Kennedy and Bingham traded places as coach and player for this game. The 1st Qtr started with O'Neill getting the first basket of the game quickly followed by a score from Brown for Jags, however Knights scored 8 pts without reply, a situation which was to be a common feature of this game, lead by Rollston they finished the Qtr 20-7 in the lead. The 2nd Qtr was a closer affair with GB star Hall getting more involved scoring 9 pts in the Qtr, but Knights just shaded it 14-11 in this Qtr with some good passing play leaving the half time score 34-18. For all this game was over as a contest by the half and, the 3rd Qtr compounded this and the Jags suffering as Knights scored at will and executed some very good flowing half court plays. Gallagher spent most of his time in his own half as Knights fast break went into overdrive , and lead by Kennedy scored 24 points to the Jags 6 in the 3rd. Ending the Qtr with a 12pt unanswered streak leaving the score going into the 4th Qtr 58-24 Knights. The 4th Qtr was much the same with Knights outscoring Jags 16-8. The score at the end was Jaguars 32-74 Knights. After the game coach Bingham was delighted with the win and how the team played, " I was especially pleased with the way Mitchell played, he is very new to the sport but he has come on really well scoring 12 pts in this game. But not only that, he is looking to create for his team mates too and should be a regular fixture in a few years. We had two players out sick in Young and Mc Aleese and I swapped places with our regular coach, so overall it was a great performance, but we know its only short lived as we have Sheffield tomorrow which promises to be a lot tougher." Final Score: Jaguars 32 Knights 74 Scorers: Rollston 26, O'Neill 18, Kennedy 14, Mitchell 12, Gallagher 4. Steelers Vs Knights Northern General Hospital 19th Nov 2006 The Knights travelled to Sheffield the previous evening and arrived at the court well rested, even if the scheduled tip was a bit earlier due to referee committments. Knights knew this game was going to be a lot tougher than yesterday, with Steelers boasting a host of former and current GB stars, welcoming back Price and Finbow to the fold this season. With this resolve Knights started the game looking to be aggressive, but were qiuckly knocked off their stride by the play of Steelers who won the 1st Qtr comfortably 15-7. For all looking on it seemed a formality that Steelers would cruise to victory but Knights had other ideas and after a few subs by coach Kennedy, Knights started to hold their own and frustrated Steelers offence holding them to 12 whilst scoring 20 pts themselves. Young who came on in the 2nd Qtr was inspirational and tough on defence and helped Knights go into the half tied at 27 pts each. Knights came out in the 3rd Qtr pumped up and ready to give Steelers a rough time but after five minutes of the 3rd Steelers lead by 36-31, and after eight minutes it was still only 38-33 Steelers. However with Knights struggling to come to terms with the winter sun shining right into their eyes in the 2nd half they failed to score enough points and after a scrappy 3rd Qtr Steelers lead by 8 pts, leading 44-36. Knights and Steelers traded baskets early in the 4th Qtr but a streak of 8 unanswered points ended the courages Knights comeback despite the best attempts by Bingham and O'Neill. The game ended with the score 69-48 Steelers. After the game coach Kennedy said, " What a game, it looked at the start that we were going to have no chance but we could have had an upset if things had swung our way. In fact we missed at least 12 points on easy shots or lay-ups at crucial stages of the contest. If we could have taken the lead maybe it could have been a different result and the sun in the 2nd half was a nuisance but nothing more than that, we missed most of our lay-ups in the 1st half. I was pleased with the way we played defence at times and with our attitude, especially Young who was a real menance on defence. Overall it was a good weekend for us, even if we are a bit disappointed at loosing to Steelers, we still played very well in bith games." Final Score 69-48 Steelers Scorers: Bingham 13, Rollston 13, O'Neill10, Gallagher 8, Young 2, Kennedy 2 Knights take a break for GB Div 1 North for a while and hope to come out firing against newly promoted Wolverhampton Rhinos in a series of back to back fixtures against them, starting with the away trip on January 6th 2007.

Title:  WORK OUT AT THE WATERFRONT - ALL SPACES HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED !!! Date:   13th November News Details: DSNI's 'Work out at the Waterfront' Aerobathon on Thursday 7th Dec has proved a great hit, with all places being filled well before the closing date. Over 200 participants will take part in this year's event, so if you havent got your entry in already, i'm afraid you are too late.

Title:  KNIGHTS OUTSMARTED BY OWLS Date:   13th November News Details: Knights Vs Oldham Owls Antrim Forum 12th Nov 2006 Knights 42- Oldham 49 Oldham Owls took the short trip from Manchester to Belfast this weekend and, with two of their star forwards missing Knights thought they would have a good chance of winning, despite the Oldham team having a few ex-GB internationals in their line up. The 1st Qtr started with Knights scoring from Rollston and after some good defence causing a few turnovers Knights jumped into a quick 14-3 lead in the 1st Qtr. Oldham are too long in the tooth to be panicked by this and after a timeout by coach Stainton and a line-up change Oldham scored the last 6 pts of the Qtr to trail 14-9. Knights thought this could be their day but with the experience of Peel, Johnson and Tarkenter for Oldham this still wasnt going to be easy. The 2nd Qtr was to prove a turning point and Oldham lead by Peel and Johnson poured in 18 pts in this Qtr while Knights could only manage a very poor 6 pts with Bingham hitting two baskets and Gallagher the only other. This left the half time score 27-20 to Oldham. The Knights players were very disappointed but resolved to come out fighting in the 2nd Half. The 3rd Qtr saw much better play from Knights and whilst Oldham struggled from the line early in the 3rd Qtr Knights came back into it once again lead by Bingham and Gallagher. At one point Knights came to within two points of the Oldham lead but couldnt just find the extra score in what was a very low scoring Qtr, the 3rd Qtr finishing 35-30 Oldham. Knights werent going to give up and started the 4th Qtr brightly, but some dubious fouls on McAlesse saw him fouled out at the start of the Qtr and Knights had to change their line up. On came Kennedy and junior player McCarthy to replace Mc Alesse and Rollston. This saw Kennedy make two baskets immediately and Knights thought they were back in it, however despite always bitting at the heels of Oldham, Knights missed two crucial lay-ups and this effectively ended their challenge and had to resort to bombing from long range and fouling Oldham to stop the clock. The game ended Oldham winning 49-42. After the game coach Kennedy said " This has been a frustrating start to our season winning two and loosing two, but at least we havent been totally outclassed and with a bit more steel and intelligent play we can beat these teams that we have lost against and make the league race an exciting one. I maybe should have used my timeouts better but sometimes the game just draws you in. I was however pleased with the way we didnt give in and with the play of junior player Johnny McCarthy when he came on. Its not easy against the experienced players Oldham had but he did well, definately one for the future if he keeps improving". Knights now have a daunting double-header away to Nottingham and Sheffield and know that they must win both games to have any chance of challenging for honours this season. Scorers: Bingham 14, Gallagher 12,Rollston 6, Kennedy 4, McAlesse 4, O'Neill 2

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND u15 WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAM TAKE 4th PLACE AT REGIONAL GAMES Date:   6th November News Details: The Northern Ireland Under 15's Wheelchair Basketball Team have just returned from a weekend of competition at Stoke Mandeville, where the Norwich Union sponsored Regional Junior Wheelchair Basketball Championships took place. The NI team had a record of 3 wins & 3 losses which earned them 4th place. The way the regionals works is that each Regional team can choose the best players from all the Club teams in their region, so eg: Yorkshire team picked the best under 15 players from Sheffield, Cardinals & ?????? whereas the NI team select only from the Knights Club as they are the only Club in NI. The NI team put in some superb displays, with great work rate shown in every match, 10 yr old Padrig Farrell from Magherafelt made his competitive debut and enjoyed the whole experience. Young James MscSorley played some great Basketball and his sister Eimear got in on the act also and scored 6 pts in 1 game alone. Geordi Wallace from Broughshane was everywhere and at times the opposition thought there may be 2 of him on court such was his tenacity. Charles Rankin from Belfast had the tough task of keeping a close eye on the Main big players in each match and he did a very good job, while young Zara Lusty from Bangor was in her usual feisty form and didnt let anyone past her without a battle. Well done to all the guys and also a mention for our Team Manager, Escorts & physio who supported the team superbly in every match and gave them great vocal backing. Next up is the GB Junior League, which caters for players 16 and under, the NI Knights start off their campaign in Stoke Mandeville at the end of November. For further information on the Junior Club, contact Aubrey Bingham 079 68452406

Title:  KNIGHTS WINNING RUN HALTED Date:   30th October News Details: Knights Vs Greenbank Antrim Forum 28th Oct 2006 Final score 55-76 This week the Knights played host to the new look Greenbank side and even though they recorded an easy win last weekend, Knights knew this would be a tough game with Jon Pollock and James Blythe joining the team. As soon as the game tipped Knights knew they were in for a tough time from the very experienced and quick Greenbank guard line up. The visitors opened the scoring with Blythe and the score see-sawed back and forth until Pollock who has just returned from the professional leagues in Europe started running the Greebank attack in the fifth minute, and after the first of his three pointers saw Greebank take an early 7 pt lead in the 1st Qtr. However Knights as usual were dogged and refused to lay down and kept plugging away and the 1st Qtr ended a very high scoring 26-20 to the visitors with another three from Pollock for good measure at the end. Coach Kennedy had some hard but encouraging words at the break, but after scoring the first points in the 2nd Qtr Knights conceeded 8 pts in a row leaving the score 32-24 to the visitors. After a quick timeout Knights came out more determined and after some furious play from both teams Knights pulled one back at the half out scoring Greenbank 13-12 and leaving the score after 2 Qtrs at 38-33 Greenbank. With the game down to 6 pts now and after holding Greenbank to just 12 pts in the 2nd Qtr Knights looked to come out firing in the 3rd Qtr. Once again in the 3rd Qtr Knights defence was good and, at one point half way through the Qtr the score was tied at 43 all. This was mainly due to some good work on defence and the fact Pollock just couldnt seem to get loose to shoot from outside, however Blythe and Jama managed a few buckets each and the 3rd Qtr ended 53-49 Greenbank with a typical Pollock ' Three' their last basket of the Qtr. Going into the 4th Qtr Knights were very much in contention but as soon as the Qtr started that belief seemed to just fade. Pollock started to really show his class running the game just how he wanted to and Knights were pulverised 23-6 in the 4th Qtr. This may have had something to do with fatigue with the starting 5 playing the whole game as coach Kennedys options were limited due to points and experience on the bench. The final score reading 76-55. After the game coach Kennedy had this to say about Greenbank " We knew they were going to be tough especially at the guard positon, but Blythe and Kelly did some real damage at the forward position too. They played excellently and as a team, which is a very dangerous combination. When you have such good individuals who can play so well as a team they can be hard to beat, which they proved today. They came out very strong and fast but we had prepared for that all week in training so we werent surprised. Maybe the easy game last week didnt help but we were in it for 3 Qtrs, and we outscored them in two of those, unfortunately the game lasts 4 Qtrs. We were given a master class today in guard play by Pollock, who I am very privileged to have seen play at last, but we didnt give up and kept at it and I dont think the large margin of defeat reflected what was for the crowd a very entertaining game. Im proud of our guys for their efforts and some of our play was very good at times too but, I think the writing was on the wall early in the 4th Qtr when Orogbemi ,as he was falling out of his chair whilst up on one wheel and falling away from the basket scored an amazing bankshot, after that I knew we had no chance of winning". Though disappointed coach Kennedy looks forward to the return fixture in Liverpool in Feb 2007, " Im confident we can give them more of a game next time, but meanwhile we have Oldham Owls next which promises to be another red hot encounter on Nov 12th at the Antrim Forum. The league this year is wide open with the return of a few players from European teams and we just hope to be in the mix at the end of the season as the standard is much higher this year" Scorers Knights: Gallagher 17, Rollston 12, Mc Alesse 10, Bingham 8, O'Neill 8

Title:  NI NEW AGE KURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2006 Date:   24th October News Details: NI NEW AGE KURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS -SPECIAL SCHOOLS 18 Special Schools from all over Northern Ireland competed in the competition. HARBERTON SCHOOL (Belfast) were victorious defeating KILLARD HOUSE (Newtownards) in a closely fought Final. ERNE SCHOOL (Enniskillen) picked up the Bronze medals in the 3rd/4th Play-Off NI NEW AGE KURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS - SENIORS In the Senior championships a total of 13 teams competed. The teams from Craigavon area dominated the tournament and it was no surprise that 3 teams from the area took the honours: 1st - The DEADLY DUO 2nd - GIANTS 3rd - GIFTED 4th - SHAKESPEARE

Title:  KNIGHTS WIN IN SCOTLAND Date:   23rd October News Details: West of Scotland Vs Knights Linwood Sports Centre 22 Oct 2006 This weekend saw the Knights travel to Scotland to play the newly promoted West of Scotland at Linwood sports centre. However they were missing Mitchell due to illness which meant they were restricted with points and unable to play either Kennedy or Steven McAlesse. With just six players Knights had to be careful avoiding getting into foul trouble and started the game rather tentatively despite Knights scoring the first basket WOS went into an early 14-4 point lead, much to the delight of the partisan home crowd. WOS then strangely called a timeout and then momentum shifted from them to the Knights who lead by Rollston and Bingham finished the 1st Qtr 18-14 in the lead. The 2nd Qtr started much as the 1st finished with the Knights maurading defence causing WOS all sorts of problems and Knights reeled off 10 more pts without reply leading 28-14 with just four minutes of the 2nd Qtr gone. Once again Knights showed their class and finished the half 42-20 in the lead. The 3rd and 4th Qtrs were much the same with Knights leading the way in the scoring stakes. However WOS never gave up and with some good long range shots from Davidson they kept the game interesting. The final score was 84-44 to the Knights and for all who saw it it was a very one sided game, but good natured. After the game coach Kennedy said " It was a good game for us at this point, and loosing Mitchell was a blow to us as we were unable to play all our players, but those who played did very well. We look forward to our next game against the revamped Greenbank side next week and to having a full squad available. We would like to thank WOS for keeping at it" Scorers: Bingham 28, Gallagher 20,O'Neill 16, Rollston 10, D McAlesse 8, Young 2

Title:  DWARF ATHLETICS ASSOCIATION - NORTHERN IRELAND REGION ANNOUNCE SPORTS PROGRAM AUTUMN/WINTER 06/07 Date:   19th October News Details: DAANI Sports Program for Autumn/Winter 2006/2007 Saturday 21 October 2.00pm 4.00pm Cycling, Craigavon Water Sports Centre Monday 23 October Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Queens PEC Saturday 28 October 2.00pm 4.00pm DSNI Athletics Development Day, Mary Peters Track, Age Group 10/16 Years Monday 6 November Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Queens PEC Saturday 11 November 9.00am 5.00pm DSNI Swimming Championships Lagan Valley Leisure Plex, Lisburn Monday 20 November Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Queens PEC Saturday 25 November 2.00pm 4.00pm Archery, Belfast Activity Centre Saturday 2 December 12.00noon 2.00pm Dry Slope Skiing Craigavon Monday 4 December Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Queens PEC Saturday 16 December 2.00pm 4.00pm Climbing, Belfast Activity Centre Saturday 13 January 2007 2.00pm 4.00pm Cycling Craigavon Water Sports Centre Monday 22 January Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Monday 5 February Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Saturday 17 February 2.00pm 4.00pm Orienteering Belfast Activity Centre Monday 19 February Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm Monday 5 March Badminton Coaching 8.00 pm 9.00pm Monday 19 March Badminton Coaching 8.00pm 9.00pm IFA Pan Disability Football Traning, Thursday Evening, Under 12, 7.00pm 8.00pm Under 17, 8.00pm 9.30pm. Belver Recreation Centre Belfast. Athletics, Football and Badminton are for members with Restricted Growth; all other activities are for ALL family members. For more info contact Eugene McVeigh 07814128800

Title:  DSNI to employ 'Sports and Leisure Officer' in Enniskillen Date:   27th September News Details: Disability Sports NI is Northern Ireland’s main disability sports organisation, working to promote equality of opportunity for people with disabilities to take part in and enjoy sport and physical activity at a level of their choice. We are currently recruiting the following development post which is funded initially for a five year period by the Sports Council for Northern Ireland Lottery Fund. Inclusive Sports & Leisure Officer – Enniskillen (Ref: ISL 06) Salary Scale: £18,450 - £22,293 (NJC Point 22-28) The successful applicant will be responsible for the development of an innovative sports and leisure programme which will give people with disabilities in Fermanagh the opportunity to lead a fit and active lifestyle. A key element of the officer’s work will involve supporting the development of Northern Ireland’s first ‘Inclusive Fitness Suite’ at the Lakeland Forum Leisure Centre, Enniskillen. Essential Criteria will include: • A degree (or equivalent third level qualification), in a discipline related to the duties of the post. OR Three years experience (paid or voluntary) gained within the last five years of sports development, community development or working with people with disabilities. Further information and an application form are available from: Disability Sports NI, Unit 6, Ormeau Business Park, 8 Cromac Avenue, Belfast BT7 2JA, Telephone: 028 9050 8255; Textphone: 028 9050 8254 Closing date for receipt of applications is 5.00pm on Friday 13th October 2006 Position supported by SPORTS COUNCIL for NORTHERN IRELAND & FERMANAGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Title:  JUNIOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED FOOTBALL CLUB Date:   26th September News Details: Junior Visually Impaired Football Club WHERE: Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Lisburn Leisure Park (Indoor) WHO CAN PLAY: Males and Females age 6 to 18 with sight loss WHEN: Saturdays. Weekly 12pm – 1pm STARTING: Saturday 30th September 2006 WHAT TO BRING: Training gear and training shoes suitable for an indoor hall. Changing/showering facilities available. COST: FREE WHAT: Skill Progression, Mobility, Team Play and Competitive Games. Enjoyment. For more information on Visual Impairment Football or Disability Football in general please contact: Alan Crooks or Mal Donaghy at the Irish Football Association on 028 90 669458 or by e-mail at acrooks@irishfa.com or mdonaghy@irishfa.com

Title:  EXCELLENT START BY KNIGHTS in GB WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL LEAGUE Date:   25th September News Details: The Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team started off their 2006/07 in style, with an excellent 66-47 victory over Nottinghamshire Jaguars at Queens PEC, Belfast on Sat 23rd Sept. The match was staged during the successful Queens Basketball Tournament, providing the stage for the local wheelchair basketballers to show off their skills and style in front of their peers from the 'running game'. Knights Coach: Jason Kennedy, started off the match with his strongest starting five - Gallagher, Rollston, Bingham, McAleese and O'Neill. The Knights all action, stifling defence caused the Nottingham guys all sorts of problems and the Knights converted well on offence to lead 22-8 after the 1st qtr. The Knights continued to dominate in the 2nd & 3rd quarters wowing the watching crowd with some excellent fast break basketball. Leading 62-28 going into the final quarter allowed Coach Kennedy to experiment with different line-ups and also give players some invaluable court time and although the Jaguars used this to eat into the Knights lead, their dominance earlier in the tie enabled the Knights to close the game out in comfort. FINAL SCORE: KNIGHTS 66 Nottingham Jaguars 47 Scorers: Dave McAleese 8pts, Matt Rollston 13, Aubrey Bingham 22, Paul Gallagher 9, Chris O'Neill 8, Jason Kennedy 4, Stafford Lynn 2 Next up for the Knights is an away trip to Glasgow to face WEST of SCOTLAND on Sat 22nd OCT.

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO SAILING FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES Date:   25th September News Details: 2 Introduction to Sailing Sessions: Friday 29th Sept '06 @ Craigavon Water Sports Centre Some spaces still available, only £1:50 per person Contact DSNI for further details

Title:  BLUSTERY WEATHER PUTS GLIDING BACK 1 WEEK Date:   22nd September News Details: The Gliding sessions scheduled for Fri 22, Sat 23 & Sun 24th Sept had to be postponed due to the inclement weather conditions across NI. The Gliding sessions will now take place on Fri 29th, Sat 30th Sept & Sun 1st Oct. There are still 1-2 places left due to the change of date, if you would like to book a place contact DSNI immediately on 90508255

Title:  THE BELFAST OPEN 2006 WHEELCHAIR TENNIS TOURNAMENT Date:   20th September News Details: The Belfast Indoor Tennis Centre was again the venue for the ninth Belfast City Council Open Wheelchair Tennis Tournament which has just taken place 15th – 17th Sept. A total of thirty competitors travelled from England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland for the three days of intense competition, with a view to securing the prize silverware. The main draw singles which consisted of twelve competitors was won by Nottingham’s young and much improved player David Phillipson, after he came through a tense final with local player Jason Black, Phillipson eventually won 6/2 2/6 7/6 David Phillipson went on to have a very successful weekend by also winning the main draw doubles title with his well sun tanned partner Paul Simmons from Hutton Gate, when they beat the pairing of Jason Black and Leyland’s Tony Knappett in a quite one sided final 6/2 6/1 The B Division proved to be a very competitive grouping as a total of ten players battled it out to eventually set up a singles final between Welsh lad Phillip Cochrane and local player Matthew Rollston. On the day Cochrane was in fine form and went on to win another three set thriller 6/2 2/6 7/6 The two B Division singles finalists Rollston and Cochrane were paired up in the B doubles competition and together they fought their way to set up a final with Dublin’s Michael Cunningham and Colorado man Marcus Causton. Like David Phillipson, Cochrane managed to secure the doubles as well as the singles when he and Rollston won in straight sets 7/5 6/3 The C Division was a keenly contested Group of eight players with Cardiff’s Martin French winning the singles final by beating Kettering player Dermot Bailey in straight sets 6/2 6/3 In the C Division doubles Martin French teamed up with Lincoln’s Cate Wright, together they progressed to the final where French again faced up to Dermot Bailey who had paired up with local player David McAleese. The final was a close enough affair with Bailey and McAleese coming through to win 2/6 6/4 7/6 The tournament once again proved to be a jam packed three days of sincere competition and the competitors and their associates were this year again treated by Belfast City Council to a very enjoyable tournament dinner in the plush surroundings of Belfast City Hall. For further detail Contact: IVOR JESS 94422248

Title:  WHEELCHAIR TENNIS TOURNAMENT ACTION IN BELFAST Date:   15th September News Details: Today (Fri 15th Sept) sees the start of the prestigious BELFAST OPEN WHEELCHAIR TENNIS TOURNAMENT, the tournament is being held at the Belfast Indoor Tennis Centre, Ormeau Pk, Belfast Around 30 players from all parts of the UK & Ireland will be vying for the title, with local players Stafford Lynn, Ivor Jess, Matt Rollston & Jason Black hoping that they can bring the Championship trophy back to Northern Ireland. Come along and see some superb sporting action, matches run from: Friday 15th - 9am -7pm Saturday 16th 9am - 6pm Sunday Finals Day 10am - 3pm

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND MLD TEAM IN WORLD CUP QUARTER-FINALS Date:   7th September News Details: NORTHERN IRELAND THROUGH TO QUARTER FINAL OF WORLD CUP! 06/09/2006 by Caroline Menary The Northern Ireland MLD (moderate learning difficulty) team is through to the Quarter Final of the MLD World Cup in Germany after beating Japan two goals to one on Thursday 7 September in front of six thousand Fans at Hicrup FC in Munster. The Northern Ireland team will play South Africa in the Quarter Final to be played on Tuesday and Manager Alan Crooks is delighted with the team’s progress: “The Players deserve a lot of credit. We have been training twice a month over the last few months in preparation and the team spirit in the camp is sky high. Every Player is giving 100% for the shirt and I am extremely proud of the way the team is playing and what they have achieved. Regardless of the result in the Quarter Final on Tuesday our Boys are a credit to their families and wonderful Ambassadors for Northern Ireland”.

Title:  DAVID McALEESE WINS SILVER MEDAL Date:   4th September News Details: David McAleese from Bangor has just returned from the EUROPEAN WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS, held in Istanbul, Turkey David was a member of the successful Great Britain Under 22 Squad which won the Silver medal. The GB team won all their matches in the lead up to a final showdown with SPAIN, in the final they were pipped 65-54 by the Spanish Young Guns. CONGRATULATIONS DAVID !!!

Title:  “TALK WITH YOUR HANDS” COMPETITION Date:   1st September News Details: Enter a unique Art Competition for the chance to have YOUR artwork projected onto the Belfast Skyline. The “TALK WITH YOUR HANDS” competition is running as part of a national campaign for “Learn to Sign Week” which runs from the 2nd – 8th October. Both Deaf and Hearing visual artists of all ages from all over the UK are being asked to enter images that represent and celebrate Sign Language. The successful entries will be projected onto the side of the Europa Hotel in Belfast on the evening of Friday the 6th of October by the Belfast Lord Mayor and Northern Ireland snooker star, Joe Swail! Please send your electronic images to zoer@bda.org.uk or in CD Rom format to Suite 3, Cranmore House, 611B Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GT by Friday 22nd September 2006. For more information on Sign Language and “Learn to Sign Week”, check out www.signcommunity.org.uk. Include your name, age and contact details with entry. For enquiries contact: Tel: 02890 38 77 01, Text: 02890 38 77 06, Email: zoer@bda.org.uk

Title:  THERE'S NO STOPPING JANET GRAY ! Date:   29th August News Details: Janet Gray has just returned from the European/African/Middle East Water Skiing Championships, held in Heron Lakes, Middlesex with an impressive medals tally of 3 GOLD & 1 BRONZE. Janet who is just returning to competitive Water Skiiing after a long injury lay-off found that she has lost little of her hunger, skill & competitive edge, winning the GOLD medal in the Tricks & Slalom, GOLD in the team competition and a BRONZE in the Overall Tricks section. Janet also equalled her OWN WORLD record twice. WATCH THIS SPACE !!!

Title:  SUCCESS FOR NI WHEELCHAIR TENNIS PLAYERS IN DUBLIN Date:   29th August News Details: Doagh man Stafford Lynn has just returned from the Irish Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships with the Singles & Doubles titles under his belt. Stafford was in fine form throughout the tournament, as he fought through Ireland's finest Wheelchair Tennis talent in the Single's event, to come away with the Singles title beating fellow NI player Ivor Jess, 6-2, 6-1. The tournament was held in the Clonskeagh David Lloyd Tennis Centre in Dublin 25-27 Aug with top Wheelchair Tennis players from all over Ireland in attendance, all hoping to take home the championship trophies. In the Doubles competition, Stafford Lynn & Ivor Jess teamed up together. They made their way through to the final with some impressive Tennis eventually beating Dublin pairing, Marcus Causton & Mark Barry in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3. Matt Rollston from Rathfriland made the step up into the A Division for the first time and finished in an impressive 3rd place, defeating Dublin's Michael Cunningham 6-4, 6-2. Ballymena's Michael Munnis finished Runner-Up in the B Division when he lost to up & coming Dublin player Mark Rowan. Following their achievements at the event, Stafford added "the high standard of competition at the Dublin event will hold us in good stead for our forthcoming "Belfast City Council Open", being held at the Belfast Indoor Tennis Arena 15-17 Sept 2006. For further details, Contact IVOR JESS 94 422248 or 07811 692485

Title:  DAVID IS FULL OF EASTERN PROMISE Date:   22nd August News Details: David McAleese - Knights Wheelchair Basketball Team has been selected for the Great Britain Under 23 Squad competing at the European Wheelchair Basketball Championships in Istanbul, Turkey August 2006. Congratulations & Good Luck to David

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND WHEELCHAIR TENNIS PLAYERS IN ACTION AT BRITISH OPEN Date:   21st August News Details: 3 NI Wheelchair Tennis players have just returned from competing at the prestigious BRITISH OPEN WHEELCHAIR TENNIS SUPERSERIES EVENT, NOTTINGHAM, JULY 2006. SPOKES IN MOTION WHEELCHAIR TENNIS CLUB PLAYERS: Stafford Lynn (Doagh, Ballyclare), Matthew Rollston (Rathfriland) & Ivor Jess (Glenavy) fought out several tough battles and returned home with some silverware. Stafford made it through to the final of the Second Draw Singles Consolation Event, eventually losing to Wolfgang Stieg (Austria) 6-3, 6-3. On route to the Final Stafford was involved in a classic three set, 3.5hrs marathon match with compatriot Ivor Jess, the local lads knowing each others games inside out, battled for every point with Stafford coming through 4-6, 6-2, 7-5. In the B Doubles, up & coming player Matthew Rollston, teamed up with English player James Kestell and the duo won the title defeating a South African pairing in the Final. All great preparation for the up coming Belfast Open Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, 15 - 17 Sept '06, Ozone Tennis Centre, Ormeau Pk, Belfast. For further info Contact: Ivor Jess 94 422248 Also, the IWA will be hosting their 1st Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, 25-27 August 2006, in Dublin. For further information Contact: Mark Barry +353 1818 6400 info@iwasport.com

Title:  IRISH DEAF SWIMMING TEAM WIN 13 medals at Deaf European Championships Date:   10th August News Details: The Irish Deaf Swimming Team have just returned from the Deaf Swimming Championships in Greece with an impressive medal haul - 9 GOLD, 1 SILVER & 3 BRONZE On top of the medals, 2 European records were also broken - EOIN HADLEY 200m Freestyle and MENS 4 x 100m medley Congratulations to all the athletes involved and a big thank you to IDSA, Ken Taylor, Alan Turner, Sarah and Vicky (physio) For further information Contact: Ken Taylor - UDSC Wilton House 5/6 College Square North Irish Deaf Sports Association - info@irishdeafsports.com or FAX +353 1 8500499

Title:  DWARF ATHLETICS ASSOCIATION - NORTHERN IRELAND HOST EUROPEAN & OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   10th August News Details: DAANI hosted athletes with restricted growth in the European & Open Championships - Belfast 4-6 August 2006 The Championships were a tremendous success with athletes from India, Denmark, France, Morocco, Holland as well as UK, Ireland and Northern Ireland participating in Track & Field Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Table-Tennis, Football, Uni-Hoc and Swimming. For further information on the Championships or for general information on sporting opportunities for people with restricted growth - Contact Eugene McVeigh 078 141 28800emcveigh@fsmail.net

Title:  GOAL BALL in KILKEEL Date:   25th July News Details: DSNI have teamed up with RNIB to run a Goal Ball session for beginners. If you are interested in attending to watch, observe or help out, contact Thomas Quigley at RNIB in Belfast or DSNI 90508255for further information

Title:  D.A.A. EUROPEAN ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS Date:   24th July News Details: Contact DSNI for further information on the Championships which are taking place in venues across Belfast 4th - 6th August 2006

Title:  DSNI CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2006/07 Date:   29th June News Details: To receive all the up to date information relating to the DSNI Events Calendar 2006/07, complete the enquiry form on this website. PROVISIONAL Calendar of Events JUNE 2006 Sat 17th Tandem/Hand Cycling at Craigavon Water Sports Centre.....aimed at Hand Cyclists + Tandem Cyclists and their family and friends JULY 2006 Sat 22nd Intro to Fly Fishing at Tildarg Fisheries, Newtownabbey......£10 per participant - which includes lunch, Tea/Coffee and instruction from a qualified angler. The day will run from 10am - 3pm and is aimed at those with physical or sensory disabilities AUGUST 2006 Tues 8th Launch of Royal Mail Programme - Custom House Square, Belfast Thurs 10th Goalball at Kilkeel, in partnership with RNIB.......aimed at those with visual impairments SEPTEMBER 2006 Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd & Sun 24th Gliding at Bellarena, Nr Limavady ......Run in partnership with the Ulster Gliding Club. Book your place on 1 of the days through DSNI........all disabilities welcome Walking for Health Event - Prov Lisburn/Belfast area......A leisurely walk along a suitably accessible route followed a delicious buffet lunch.......all disabilities welcome Intro to Sailing - TBC.........all disabilities welcome OCTOBER 2006 Athletics Development Day - Belfast Fri 20th 11am -1pm NI New Age Kurling - Special Schools Championships - Antrim Forum........aimed at Special Schools Sat 21st 1pm - 3pm NI New Age Kurling - Senior Championships (+16) - Antrim Forum.........teams of 2 players (1 of which must have a disability) NOVEMBER 2006 Sat 11th NI Swimming Championships - Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Lisburn.........all disabilities 13th - 16th NI Special Pool Championships - Lodge Hotel, Coleraine.........mostly Learning disability, but also Physical disability section Basketball Development Day - TBC........all disabilities DECEMBER 2006 Thurs 7th Work Out @ Waterfront - Belfast........aimed at Special Schools and Adult/Day Centres JANUARY 2007 Wed 17th Intro to Archery - Kilmore Archery Club, Kilmore, Nr Lurgan..........2sessions, 1 aimed at Learning Disability, the other aimed at all disabilities FEBRUARY 2007 NI Boccia Championships (+16) - TBC.......teams of 3 players (1 of which must have a disability) Basketball Development Day - TBC..........all disabilities MARCH 2007 Tues 13th Special Schools Sports Hall Athletics Championships - Lisburn..........Special Schools Wed 14th Special Schools Sports Hall Athletics Championships - L'Derry.......Special Schools Basketball Development Day - TBC.........all disabilities

Title:  USRT Sports Awards Date:   28th June News Details: THE KEN REID AWARD Sponsored by Leonard Cheshire NI The late Ken Reid OBE was the first Regional Chairman of Leonard Cheshire in Northern Ireland and had a deep commitment to the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of community life. The award was presented to: MATTHEW BELL (Swimming) – Longstone Special School, Dundonald Matthew has been involved in disability swimming for more than 5 years, competing in his class at National and International events. Since 2004, he has been competing at UK Senior Level and in 2005 was selected to be part of the GB squad becoming the first person from Northern Ireland to compete as part of the GB Squad at the World Games. Matthew is a well mannered boy, liked by both his peers and teachers and has demonstrated great potential within his sport. CLAIRE CONWAY (Swimming) – Assumption Grammar, Ballynahinch Claire has developed many qualities that have enabled her to blossom into a mature young adult but has been most successful at swimming. She competed in her first UK Championships when only 12 and by the age of 14 had already progressed to the Senior Championships, competing regularly at UK Senior Events. In 2003, Claire was selected for the International Squad and competed at the Paralympic Games in Athens in 2004 achieving a Personal Best in the 100m Fly. Claires talent has continued to grow and she is now an official member of the Paralympic Council for Ireland Swimming Panel for Beijing 2008.

Title:  INTRODUCTION TO FLY FISHING Date:   27th June News Details: SATURDAY 22nd JULY 2006 10am - 3pm This day has been arranged in conjunction with Tildarg Fishery and is aimed at those with physical or sensory disabilities. Attendees will be introduced to the Sport and shown some of the techniques by a qualified angling instructor. Rods/Reels etc will be made available on the day. Cost £10 pp which Lunch & Tea/Coffee There are limited places available, to book your place or find out more, Contact Disability Sports NI (DSNI) 90508255 or email@dsni.co.uk

Title:  DSNI TRAINING COURSES Date:   14th June News Details: Tuesday 20th June - Inclusive Games Training Course, Shantallow Community Centre, L'derry 11am -3pm Tuesday 18th July - Inclusive Games Training Course, Magherafelt Rec. Centre 10am - 2pm Friday 15th September - Disability Awareness Training Course, Antrim Forum 10am - 4:30pm Friday 13th October - Inclusive Games Training Course, Antrim Forum 11am - 3pm

Title:  NI ARCHERY SOCIETY Hosting 25th Year Celebration Date:   1st June News Details: As part of their 25th anniversary celebrations. The Northern Ireland Archery Society will be hosting a Come & Try it Day. DATE: SAT 10th JUNE 2006 VENUE: BOUCHER RD PLAYING FIELDS, BELFAST TIME: 11am - 6pm INFO: A variety of equipment and plenty of instructors will be on hand. FREE ENTRY, For further information, Contact Wellesley McGown 3832 6987

Title:  Learn to Scuba Dive with DV Dive Centre. ...FREE COURSE AVAILABLE... Date:   26th May News Details: WHY ?........ Escape, Explore, Experience !!! WHERE ?.... Anywhere there's Water !!! HOW ? ....... Contact DV Diving Scuba Diving is a non competitive sport! Imagine the feeling of weightlessness, the joy of breathing underwater seeing fish and mammals in their own environment. Dv Diving are planning to run some Pool Try Dives for people with disabilities and their families. After this initial pool dive names will be entered in a PRIZE DRAW and one name drawn out August 2006 and given a FREE PADI Open Water Diver Course worth £500. Which includes all Pool Lessons, Manuals, equipment So if your up for a lot of FUN!! want a challenge and dont mind getting your hair wet then give Scuba a try! DvDiving can also run Boat trips, Seal Watching and Boat Handling Courses !! DV Diving is a PADI Five Star Dive Centre, BSAC Premier Diving School,TDI Facility, RYA Training Centre and HSE recognised scuba assessment centre based at Strangford Lough, County Down, Northern Ireland. All our instructors are professionally qualified Divers/Instructors, First Aid specialists/ HSE Commercial Divers/ Power Boat Handlers Contact: Robert Catherwood (Dv Diving) Tel 07738589663

Title:  LADY TAVERNERS 'Spirit of Sport' AWARDS Date:   22nd May News Details: The Annual Lady Taverner's 'Spirit of Sport' Awards took place on Friday 19th May 2006 at the Europa Hotel, Belfast Congratulations to the Award Recipients: On the day Barry McCloskey from Derry was the main award winner. Barry is a 13 yr old who has shown determination and commitment in developing his sporting skills despite considerable difficulties in his early childhood. He learned to swim in 2003, and has steadily developed, obtaining his 200m badge earlier this year. He is a member of the Inter-School sports team, plays Basketball and received his Level 1 certificate in Horse Riding in May of this year. The confidence Barry has gained from participating in sport has had a very positive influence on his school work. He is a kind and fun loving boy who has used sport to overcome the difficulties in his life. Barry attends Glasvey Special School, Ballykelly and was nominated by his teacher, Elizabeth O'Halloran. Other Award recipients at the glitzy presentation Lunch were: Eimear & James MacSorley - Knights Wheelchair Basketball Club Jamesy O'Neill - Parkview School, Lisburn Siobhan May - Erne School, Enniskillen For further details on the 'Spirit of Sport' Awards - Contact DSNI 90508255

Title:  INTRO TO AEROBICS (Chair Based) AT CREGAGH COMMUNITY CENTRE Date:   8th May News Details: A pilot programme of 6 Introductory Chair Based Aerobics sessions will begin on Thursday 18th May 2006, 8:00 - 9:00pm (Other session dates: 25th May, 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd June) For further info: Contact Disability Sports NI 90508255 or Clare Bell at Castlereagh Borough Council 90494582

Title:  KNIGHTS WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAM TO PLAY LIVERPOOL GREENBANK IN GB NATIONAL CUP FINAL Date:   2nd May News Details: The Knights WBC will contest the Final of the prestigious GB National Cup where their opponents will be Liverpool Greenbank. The Final will be played at the home of Wheelchair Sports, Stoke Mandeville, Aylesbury on Sat 20th May. The Knights have played the Liverpool side twice this season and both have been very close affairs. Knights Head Coach Jason Kennedy looks forward to the clash "It is a fantastic achievement for our team to reach the Final and we will be going all out to bring the trophy home to NI. Liverpool will prove tough opponents, as our matches with them this season show, we pipped them 76-73 in a League encounter at Antrim Forum. That was a rip-roaring match and a superb advert for Wheelchair Basketball, with speed, flair and some top drawer shooting by both sides"

Title:  New DSNI Calendar of Events for 2006/07 Comin Soon Date:   26th April News Details: To ensure you receive all the details of the DSNI 2006/07 Calendar of Events, complete the enquiry form available on this website

Title:  CYCLING EVENT at CRAIGAVON - SAT 17th JUNE Date:   26th April News Details: Cycling Event aimed at Tandem/Hand Cyclists and their friends/families. Scenic Route round Craigavon Lakes followed by Buffet. Cycles available for hire/ testing. FULL DETAILS TO FOLLOW..... CONTACT: DSNI 90508255 abingham@dsni.co.uk

Title:  OUTDOOR PURSUITS at CRAIGAVON WATERSPORTS CENTRE Date:   20th April News Details: GRAND LAUNCH of CRAIGAVON WATERSPORTS CENTRE - OUTDOOR PURSUITS for people with disabilities -SATURDAY 22nd APRIL '06 Activities Include: SAILING CLIMBING KAYAKING CYCLING WATERSKIING Morning Session: Arrive 10am Start 10.30 Finish 12.00 Afternoon Session: Arrive 1pm Start 1.30 Finish 3.00 Cost £1.50 per session CWSC invites all groups and individuals with a disability to join them. Spaces are limited on the day, to book/confirm your place(s): CONTACT: KELLEY 02838 342669 kelley.rushton@craigavon.gov.uk

Title:  SUMMER MULTI SPORTS CAMP @ BELVOIR ACTIVITY CENTRE Date:   20th April News Details: Castlereagh Borough Council's Sports Development unit will be hosting a summer activity programme based at the Belvoir Activity Centre in South Belfast. The programme includes: MULTI-SPORTS CAMPS 3 day Multi-Sport Camp 3rd-5th July (10am - 2.30pm) 2 day Disability Multi-Sport Camp 6th-7th July (10am - 2pm) To find out more or enrol, please contact the Belvoir Activity Centre 90642174

Title:  CLAY & SKEET SHOOTING EVENT Date:   19th April News Details: Hi all, Following on from the success of the first development day of Clay Pigeon and Skeet Shooting in Courtlough Shooting Club near Balbriggan, Rep of Ireland, we have organised a new date for existing participants and newcomers... The next development date for Clay Pigeon and Skeet Shooting is Saturday, 8th July 2006. The day will start at 12pm on the rifle range with a lunch break at 1.30pm until 2.15pm. At 2.15pm we will head out to the Clay Shoot and hopefully everybody will be finished and ready for home at 4pm. Niall McDonnell of IWA Clane had the idea of making it a team event day something similiar to the first development day so if you are interested could you please let me know asap and we can go about organising teams. I look forward to hearing back from you soon. Kind regards, Mark Barry Sports Development Officer IWA Sport Blackheath Drive Clontarf, D.3 Tel: (01) 818 6476 Mob: 087 984 2384 Fax: (01) 853 1256 e-mail: mark.barry@iwa.ie If you know a person with a physical disability in your community who may be interested in joining IWA-Sport please encourage them to contact us on +353 1 818 6476 or e-mail us at info@iwasport.com to hear more about the sports activities and options available to them.

Title:  WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALLERS REACH GB NATIONAL CUP FINAL Date:   10th April News Details: National Cup Semi Final Storm Vs Knights Bromley Pavillion 7th April 2006 Storm and Knights met at last in the semi final of the National cup, in what was an eagerly anticipated game by both teams and a few others round the league, after the good form shown by both teams in their respective divisions this year. Knights were taking no chances and travelled again to England well prepared for Storm who were going to be no pushovers, as they have been competing in the Super league and Willi Brinkman cup recently. The game tipped off at 7.30 pm and the Knights went into a press defence to try and use their speed against Storms superior height however the 1st Qtr was a close affair, with Storm dealing well with the press and it ended 12-10 to the visitors. The 2nd Qtr was to again prove to be a tight affair with both teams trading baskets, Bingham and McAlesse got 6pts each in the Qtr but the Knights just couldnt seem to get going on offence, and it ended 14-12 to Knights leaving the score 26-22 to the visitors at the half. With the game so close coach Kennedy tried different options in the second half but still the game was too close to call in the third and with no clear favourite emerging the 3rd Qtr ended with the score 42-37 Knights. Starting the 4th Qtr with two unanswered baskets the Knights took a 46-37 lead, and it looked like they were going to pull away, but some good line up changes from Storm coach Harvey saw them claw it back. Again the Knights went on a mini run in the middle of the 4thQtr but Storm just wouldnt quit and with the Knights missing vital free throws the game was still there for any team to win. In fact they missed eleven free throws in the Qtr and thirteen in the game. The end of the game was a scrappy affair with Storm having to foul to stop time running out but it just wasnt to be for the home team and the Knights ran out eventual winners 57-53. After the game coach Kennedy was delighted with the win but was full of oraise for the opposition, " We came here full of confidence and thought we were going to get a tough game but that we would win, however up until the last few minutes Storm were in it. They are a tough team and have loads of height and never give up, they made some personnel changes in the 4th Qtr and those guys who came on did a great job for them. However we knew that we had some very big scalps over the last season and that we could win it. We werent as good as we could be, but thats probably because we havent had a competitive in a few months whilst Storm having been playing at a very high standard all that time. But all credit to them and I can just see them getting better. As for us I was pleased at the way we stuck at it and got the win even if it wasnt pretty, once again Bingham lead the way in scoring with Mc Alesse and O'Neill both getting double figures too. Semis are always the most difficult ones to win, and now we can relax and look forward to the final, however we still have some hard work to get through in training" The Knights now travel away again for the final to Stoke Mandeville, home of the paralympic games, to play either Nottingham Jaguars or Liverpool Greenbank on May 20th. This will be their first final appearance in the National cup. Scorers: Bingham 21, McAlesse 12, O'Neill 10, Gallagher 7, Rollston 4, Kennedy 3.

Title:  Cummings at the Commonwealths Date:   28th March News Details: Johnny Cummings, a member of the Armagh Swimming Club and Disability Sports NI Performance Squad, has represented Northern Ireland at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games. Johnny represented the team in the 50m and 100m freestyle swimming for Elite Athletes with Disability and achieved very creditable times of 36.75 and 1.18 respectively at the events held in the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. Previously, Johnny had competed successfully at the British Championships in Sheffield 2005. Hopefully now more major events, such as Paralympics and Commonwealth games, await this talented swimmer who is yet to turn 18.

Title:  Special Schools Athletics Results Date:   23rd March News Details: Special School Sports Hall Athletics Tuesday 14th March - Lisburn SLD WINNERS 1st Loughan School 82pts 2nd Lisanally School 75pts 3rd Hillcroft School 64pts MLD WINNERS 1st Rostulla School 105pts 2nd Thornfield School 102pts 3rd Dunfane School 101pts Wednesday 15th March - Derry SLD WINNERS 1st Kilronan 98 pts 2nd Knockavoe 92 pts 3rd Foyleview 85 pts MLD WINNERS 1st Belmont House 131pts 2nd Arvalee 127pts 3rd Limegrove 119 pts

Title:  SUCCESS FOR SWIMMERS IN SHEFFIELD EVENT Date:   8th March News Details: The list of local medalists from the UK National Junior Swimming Championships held at the Ponds Forge in Sheffield is as follows: GOLD Hannah Clarke 100 Free Hannah Clarke 50 Breast Hannah Clarke 100 Breast SILVER Laurence McGivern 100 Free John McMullan 100 Free Kelly McGill 50 Breast Laurence McGivern 50 Back John McMullan 100 Breast Hannah Clarke 50 Free BRONZE Matt Bell 50 Fly Matt Bell 100 Free Matt Bell 100 IM Matt Bell 50 Back Kelly McGill 50 Back Gareth Browne 100 Breast Matt Bell 100 Back Laurence McGivern 50 Free Matt Bell 50 Free

Title:  NI JUNIOR KNIGHTS WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAM TAKE 3rd PLACE in GB JUNIOR LEAGUE Date:   6th March News Details: The NI Junior Knights (Under 16 team) returned from the Weekend Championships held in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire with a very creditable 3rd place. The NI team came up against eventual winners Sheffield, in the Semi-Final, the Knights battled hard but were on the wrong end of the scoreline, this meant that the NI Knights would fight it out with London Force for the 3rd place medals. In a titanic battle which went into 'Double Overtime', the NI Knights showed their mettle to claim victory. NI Junior Knights: Geordi Wallace (Broughshane), Johnny McCarthy (Lisburn), James MacSorley (Belfast), James Barr (Antrim), Timothy Webb (Portadown), Charles Rankin (Belfast) Zara Lusty (Bangor), Jenni Lusty (Bangor), Eimear MacSorley (Belfast), Daniel Black (Ballycastle), Matthew Harper (Newtownabbey), Matthew Smyth (Belfast) Sheffield beat Nottinghamshire in the Final to lift the coveted title.

Title:  NATIONAL DISABLED FLY FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP 2006 Date:   6th March News Details: NATIONAL DISABLED FLY FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP 2006 1. The Qualifying Competition to select the team to represent Ireland in 2006 will be held on SATURDAY, 3rd June, 2006 TIME 12 NOON - 5.00 PM on Annagh Lake, Butlersbridge, Co. Cavan. Entry Fee £15 or €25 2. All Competitors must be paid up current members of the IRISH DISABLED FLY FISHING ASSOCIATION (membership £10.00 or €15 per annum) 3. Normal wet fly rules will apply. 4. Health and Safety. Life jackets must be worn. Please wear glasses, a hat, keep arms covered and use a sun block. 5. Competitors should report to the Boat Organiser, at 10.45 am. 6. Presentation of the cups will be immediately following the competition. 7. This will be the Qualifying Competition to select the team to represent Ireland at the Disabled International in Ireland in 2007. The team consists of seven anglers, all seven places will be fished for. All anglers qualifying must confirm their willingness to fish the International and fish with the team in Ireland in June 2007. 8. Boats and boatmen will be allocated by the Boat Organiser. Only disabled anglers will be able to fish the competition. If friends accompany a disabled angler they must make their own arrangements if they wish to fish on the day. (Contact: Jack Spratt, telephone 028 6634 1684) 9. All entries, with entry fee of £15.00 or €25 (and membership if appropriate) must be sent to the Secretary - Miss E J Black, 6 Old Park Drive, BALLYMENA, BT42 1BG before 12th May, 2006. Please use entry form below and return entries in time. BOATS CANNOT BE ARRANGED AFTER THIS DATE. 10. Further information can be obtained from Miss E J Black, Secretary, Ballymena 028 2564 2539 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I intend to fish the Championships on Saturday, 3rd June 2006 YES / NO I am a wheelchair user YES / NO I will need my wheelchair in the boat YES / NO I will bring my own boat seat YES / NO I enclose entry fee £15.00 or €25, membership fee £10.00 or €15 Total £25.00 or €40 NAME__________________________________PHONE NO.________________________ ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________

Title:  CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING TASTER EVENT Date:   1st March News Details: Clay Pigeon & Skeet Shooting Development Day will be held on Saturday, April 8th from 1pm - 3pm at Courtlough near Balbriggan. Niall McDonnell is an accomplished shooter and will be the main point of contact for the day. The rates are as follows... 25 Cartridges for €30 35 Cartridges for €40 50 Cartridges for €50 The payment for any of the above covers the following... Your insurance, tuition by a professional, cartridges and gun hire. We hope to arrange more development days for this sport with a view to hosting a National Championships in the near future. If and when you are interested, please contact me and we can advise further... Regards, Mark Barry Sports Development Officer IWA Sport Blackheath Drive Clontarf, D.3 Tel: (01) 818 6476 Mob: 087 984 2384 Fax: (01) 853 1256 e-mail: mark.barry@iwa.ie

Title:  NI JUNIOR KNIGHTS GO INTO BATTLE Date:   1st March News Details: The NI under 16 Wheelchair Basketball Team will be travelling to Stoke Mandeville, Aylesbury, this weekend (3-4th March) to compete in the FINAL FOUR COMPETITION of the GB JUNIOR LEAGUE. The squad under the watchful eyes of coaches Paul Gallagher & Jason Kennedy will be hoping to take some tough scalps, in the form of teams from London and favourites Nottinghamshire & Sheffield.

Title:  CHERRYTREES TEAMS DO THE DOUBLE AT DSNI COMMUNITY GAMES FESTIVAL Date:   1st March News Details: On Saturday 25th Feb '06, DSNI held the inaugural Community Games Festival at the Valley Leisure Centre, Newtownabbey. Over 60 teams entered into the 3 competitions: New Age Kurling, Boccia & Goalball. Community Sports Development officers from Moyle, Downpatrick, Ballymena, Craigavon, Brownlow & Newry & Mourne entered teams into the 3 competitions. And after several rounds of matches, the Deaf players representing Cherrytrees came away with the New Age Kurling & Boccia titles, so well done to Ken Taylor and his crew of Faith Coxall, Claire O'Connor, Michelle Rice and Larry Kelly. Tannaghmore Spooks were Runners-up in the Boccia and Cedar Crew Ballymena were Runners-up in the New Age Kurling. The Goalball, which is a sport played by those with visual impairments, turned into more of a demonstration event with the team from Cedar Crew Ballymena coming out victorious.

Title:  AIMEE-LOUISE McCULLOUGH LIFTS BELFAST TELEGRAPH AWARD Date:   30th January News Details: Talented swimmer Aimee-Louise McCullough won the Sportsperson of the Year with a disability award at the prestigious Belfast Telegraph Sports Awards. Aimee-Louise McCullough won 1 Gold & 2 Silver Medals at the CP World Games in USA, July 2005

Title:  KNIGHTS WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAM FINISH OFF THEIR GB LEAGUE CAMPAIGN IN STYLE Date:   30th January News Details: The Knights WBC finished off their GB League campaign with a hard fought win over Newcastle Sharks at the Antrim Forum on Saturday. The 73-60 win for the Knights means that the Knights have ended up with a record which reads 11 wins & 3 defeats, which will probably see them finishing in 3rd place, which is the best placings the club has ever achieved. After the game coach Kennedy said " This game was a bit flat in parts and hard to watch sometimes especially in the 3rd Qtr but we won in the end, and at this stage of the season we just wanted the win. Its a pity we had guys missing for some very important games, but thats life and I firmly believe we would have made it to the playoffs if we had a full squad all season. As a coach I have to say im very pleased with how the league campaign went, we were better than last year and all the players have improved individually and the team has gelled fantastically. It definatley bodes well for the future of our club and we are still in with a faint chance if the others slip up and we are in the semis of the cup too. We look forward to next season and more immediately to the cup game and our own N.I.League which starts next Sat 4th Feb in Cookstown Leisure Centre" The Knights play Beckenham Storm from Div 1 South in the cup, in what promises to be a very closely fought game in London on April 7th for a place in the final in May.

Title:  KNIGHTS WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAM RECORD FANTASTIC WIN IN GB LEAGUE Date:   23rd January News Details: A few wks ago, the Knights had been thoroughly thrashed by the table topping Oldham side, who contain several current and past GB players in their ranks. In the return fixture on Sat 21st Jan, the Knights travelled to Lancashire to face Oldham on their home court and came away with a momentous victory. The Northern Ireland lads produced a fantastic display, beating the Oldham team (Oldham have won the GB League title for the past 2 seasons) 59-55 to record a superb victory. See full match report and stats on Knights Club page

Title:  Foyle Disability Resource Centre.......ON THE GO!!! Date:   23rd January News Details: Foyle Health Trust in Derry took the lead in introducing the "Gransha Stepometre Challenge" to entice staff to take up walking as a health benefit. Some twenty teams of six staff from various departments within the Foyle Trust participated in this health promotion initiative. Colum Deehan (Step-O-Metre Co-ordinator) for the Foyle Disability Resource Centre team explained "the Gransha Stepometre Challenge involved staff wearing a simple device which you clip on to the waistline of your trousers/skirt and it measures the number of steps you take". Participating staff from Foyle Trust, Westcare and WH&SSB wore this stepometre everyday for a period of six weeks to record their daily steps. The overall aim of this challenge is to have fun and increase their levels of physical activity. The Stepometre challenge proved a great success and also acted as an excellent team-building exercise. At the end of the six week challenge when all participating teams had their accumulated steps calculated and verified the Foyle Disability Resource Centre were the runaway prize winners. Following the Gransha Step-O-Metre Challenge Michelle Doherty (Manager) from the Health Promoting Trust presented Colum Deehan (Acting Deputy Manager)at the Foyle Disability Resource Centre with stepometres to introduce a similiar challenge for Users at the Foyle Disability Resource Centre. This has indeed proved a worthwhile venture as the User Group meet up every week and visit various places of interest. At the moment Users at the FDRC are covering up to three/four mile walks every week.This initiative was further made possible with the training that was provided for staff by Aubrey Bingham from the Disability Sports NI and Michelle Doherty from Foyle Health Promoting Trust. Staff and Clients from the FDRC would like to express their thanks to both of these people. Below Darren Kirkup and Colum Deehan (Acting Deputy Manager,FDRC) manage to breach Derry Walls during their weekly walk. Below Darren Kirkup, Ryan Moore & Billy Brown fire a warning shot from the Derry Walls before doing a circuit of the Walls on their weekly walk. Below Darren Kirkup,Billy Brown,Jeanette Mc Laughlin & Ryan Moore pause for a moments reflection during their weekly walk at Gransha Grounds,Derry. The cows are also wondering what is going on? Below Eunice & Sara from Altnagelvin Health Club present prizes to Staff members from the Foyle Disability Resource Centre, Colum Deehan, Thomas Doherty and Cathal Mac Elhatton (Manager,FDRC) who were members of the winning team in the Foyle Trust Step-O-Metre Challenge. Below Susan from Ashburn Images presenting prizes to Staff members from the FDRC Margaret Hyndman, Lynda Luscombe and Roisin Mc Connell (Deputy Manager,FDRC) who were members of the winning team in the Foyle Trust Step-O-Metre Challenge.

Title:  Job Advert: BWLA Assistant Coach: Fast Track Paralympian Programme Date:   12th January News Details: The British Weightlifters Association (BWLA) is recruiting for two assistant coaching positions to develop talented disabled lifters.The successful applicants would be expected to assist the development of identified talent on the 'Fast Track' scheme, which aims to coach lifters through to relevant performance standards. This will initially focus around national squad training sessions held at weekends. Job Description & Person Specification are available by telephoning or emailing Duncan Tunbridge on 020 7211 5234 or Duncan.Tunbridge@paralympics.org.uk. Send CV and supporting information in accordance with the Person Specification to Duncan Tunbridge at BPPS, 40 Bernard Street, London WC1N 1ST. The closing date is 19th January 2006 and interviews will take place in Birmingham on 2nd February 2006. Further details relating to the role please contact Donna Charlton-O'Malley, Technical Coordinator, BWLA on 07766918236 or email donna@charltonomalley.fsnet.co.uk

Title:  DROMONA SPORTS AWARD Date:   9th January News Details: DROMONA SPORTS AWARD in association with the Ulster Sports Trust The trust is delighted to advise you of the establishment of the 'Dromona Sports Award' The Award will be made annually to the young sportsperson judged to have demonstrated sporting excellence, promise and potential satisfying the Award criteria. The Award will be in the form of a bursary of £5000 each year provided by Dale Farm and applicants must be in the 16 - 23 age group. The initial award will be made early in 2006. For a copy of the Award criteria and nomination form either download from the Dale Farm website www.dalefarm.co.uk OR contact Isobel at the Ulster Sports Trust 90383830

Title:  CHAIR BASED AEROBICS SESSIONS @ VALLEY LEISURE CENTRE IN FEBRUARY Date:   9th January News Details: If you are interested in taking part in 4 Chair based Aerobics sessions run by FITNESS NI at the Valley Leisure Centre on Sat 4th , 11th , 18th & 25th Feb 2006 Contact DSNI 90508255 for further details

Title:  ULSTER DEAF SPORTS COUNCIL FUNDRAISING DISCO Date:   9th January News Details: ULSTER DEAF SPORTS COUNCIL DISCO CRUSADERS SOCIAL CLUB, SEAVIEW, SHORE RD, BELFAST FRIDAY 10th MARCH 2006 @ 8pm With Andy B’s Disco No need for ticket – pay at the door £5 Proceeds to Ulster Deaf Sports Council’s 30th Anniversary OVER 18 YEAR OLD ONLY For further information please contact Ken Taylor on 07731458229

Title:  CHAIR BASED AEROBICS SESSIONS WITH FITNESS NI Date:   19th December News Details: FITNESS NI are hosting chair based aerobics sessions at the Valley Leisure Centre, Newtownabbey in February 2006. The sessions are aimed at wheelchair users/those interested in taking part in aerobics from a seated position and each person with a disability attending are invited to bring along a friend to also participate in the sessions. The sessions are FREE of charge and are an attempt by Fitness NI to; inspire those with mobility restrictions to take part in Aerobics, look at a Chair Based module within their programme of courses. For further information on the sessions, please contact DSNI to find out more or book your place(s) Tel: 90508255 email@dsni.co.uk

Title:  AEROBATHON @ WATERFRONT HALL GOES DOWN A STORM Date:   5th December News Details: The annual DSNI Aerobathon took place at the Waterfront Hall, Belfast on Thurs 1st Dec. The event, which is designed to encourage and inspire people with disabilities to see and feel the benefits of leading a healthy lifestyle, saw over 200 participants strut their stuff under the guidance of Fitness guru, Jane Stewart and under the watchful eye of Lord Mayor Wallace Browne, Paul Corrigan (Royal Mail) & Eric Saunders (SCNI) The atrocious weather conditions outside didnt dampen the enthusiasm shown inside with the 200 participants from a range of 17 Adult/Resource Centres across Northern Ireland getting into the swing of things quickly and the Bar 1 area swayed to the beat of Abba, Beatles and some recent Hip hop sounds.

Title:  KNIGHTS OVERCOME DUBLIN RIVALS Date:   5th December News Details: Dublin Celts Vs Knights 4/12/05 Irish Wheelchair Association The Knights had the relatively short away trip to the Celts in Dublin this weekend, for the second meeting of the teams this season. The Knights won the first game by 52pts and with Gallagher missing due to family commitments this was going to be a tougher encounter with the Celts trying to salvage some pride this season. This top versus bottom clash started with the Knights showing press defence and this got them lots of turnovers but they failed to convert on a number of easy chances, but they ended the first 13-8 in the lead, mostly because of the quickness of Rollston who had 9pts in the 1st Qtr, including a three point play after getting fouled on a layup. Once again the Knights defence got them turnovers but in the 2nd Qtr they were able to convert more readliy and lead by Rollston and Bingham saw them hold the Celts to 10pts again whilst scoring 25pts and leaving the game at half time 38-20 Knights, which was no surprise as the Celts were mostly restricted to outside shots. The second half started with a changed line up as the game was effectively over and coach Kennedy wanted to get some of the players court time, but they kept to the game plan and scored freely with McAlesse, Bingham and O'Neill doing the damage in the 3rd Qtr on the offensive end with good team work on the defensive from everyone. This meant the 4th Qtr was a formality and all players got court time in this Qtr and 4 of the starting line up spent most of the Qtr on the bench, this allowed Kennedy the chance to give valuable court time to all his players and this saw all but one getting on the score sheet. And in fact that was the best defensive Qtr of the game allowing only 5pts against, and the Knights poured in another 21 to leave the end score 75-31. After the game coach Kennedy said" last year this game was a real tight game but we were ready this year and well focused. I thought we played great defence and really only let ourselves down with our shooting in the 1st Qtr. I was especially pleased with the way players are coming off the bench and fitting into the team play, cause you never know when some of the guys will get hurt or into foul trouble and the others have to fill in and do a job." He added " Another plus point is that we had five players who got into double figures, that makes us a tough team to beat, and so far this season I have been impressed with the speed and determination of our players especially Rollston, but it takes exceptional teamwork to win consistently" The Knights continue to head the league, and with visit of St Helens Vikings next week to the Antrim Forum, its gonna be tough to stay there. Scorers: Rollston 19, Bingham 13, Mc Alesse 13, O'Neill 10, Kennedy 10, Mc Killop 4, Young 6, Mitchell 2

Title:  ANOTHER IMPRESSIVE WIN FOR THE FORMIDABLE KNIGHTS TEAM Date:   22nd November News Details: Knights Vs Nottinghamshire Jaguars 19th Nov 2005 Antrim Forum Today the Jaguars travelled over to Ireland to take on the Knights, in the first of a double header weekend for them. This game was probably going to be the toughest test for the Jags, and it started out like that as the Knights superb defence saw them take an 8pt lead straight away, with Gallagher rarely crossing half way and Bingham and GB Jr McAlesse in great offensive form the Knights scored freely, in fact Bingham had 10 pts in the 1st Qtr and Mc Alesse had 9, and along with scoring contributions form Gallagher and O'Neill saw the Knights lead 25-8 at the end of the 1st. Strangely Hall didnt register a score for the visitors which had more to say about the defence of Rollston who shackled Hall in the 1st. The 2nd Qtr started the same as the 1st but this time it was former GB Jr McKillop who provided the offensive threat scoring 10pts and playing some good defense too, after coach Kennedy was forced into a substitution after O'Neill got into early foul trouble. However Hall got into rhythm and scored a few baskets but the half time score was 43-18 Knights and for all this game was over. The start of the 3rd saw Jaguars get free a bit more often and score more freely but the Knights lead by McAlesse just kept scoring with loads of confidence, and in fact the crowd got excited on a few occasions by the slick passing moves of the Knights, and maybe coach Kennedy tampering with the line up and the defence let the Jaguars score more than they warranted. The 4th was going to be a formality and with the coach using nearly all his players and some inexperienced lineups the Jaguars got a bit more room and outscored the knights in the last Qtr 26-20, with Hall leading all scorers for the Jags.The final whistle went with the score 83-60 to the Knights. Coach Kennedy said after the game" I was delighted with our performance, everyone played well, the defence was superb in the first half and the game was won then and only when I started giving time to the other players they(jags) came back a bit. I was especially happy with our GB Jrs Mc Alesse and Mc Killop who played great offensively and defensively" he added " We know Bingham, Gallagher, Rollston and O'Neill can do it but with the depth in our squad now its gonna make us a tough team to beat, it always good to see the younger players coming through and doing it, and it was good to see Mitchell doing well again, I can see him being a player for the future" " The only thing that was strange in the game was the fouls, the Knights had 22 fouls to Jaguars 7 " Scorers: McAlesse 19, McKillop 18, Bingham 16, Rollston 10, Kennedy 6, Gallagher 4, Young 2, Lynn 2, Mitchell 2 Hall 33

Title:  RYA Sailability Disability Awareness Training Course Date:   17th November News Details: Venue: Craigavon Watersports Centre Date: Sat 28th Jan '06 Time: 9:30am - 3:30pm Cost: £5 (lunch included) Limited places, for further info or to book your place, see relevant info on Events page

Title:  Jonathon Cummings selected for Commonwealth Games Date:   16th November News Details: 17 year old Jonathon Cummings from Coalisland, Dungannon is an S7 Swimmer who is a member of the Armagh Swimming Club and DSNI Performance Squad. He has been selected to compete at the 2006 Commonwealth Games being held in August in Melbourne, Austrailia. Jonathon's selection was announced on Saturday 12th November and as a result of this Jonathon will be part of a 5 man swimming squad from N.Ireland. Jonathon is the only disabled athlete from Northern Ireland to be selected and will be competing in 50 metre and 100 metre freestyle.

Title:  ELLEN KEANE SCOOPS TOP AWARD AT NORTHERN IRELAND SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS! Date:   16th November News Details: Whilst the day attracted recreational swimmers, some of Northern Irelands most promising young stars competed, with the best junior swimmers on the day being selected to join Disability Sports Northern Ireland’s Swimming Development Squad. As squad members, junior swimmers will have the opportunity to be selected to represent Northern Ireland at the UK Junior Championships – held in March 06. One swimmer who has an abundance of competitive experience at a UK level and competed in Saturday’s event is Matthew Bell. Matthew started his swimming career at the Royal Mail event almost five years ago and at the 2003 gala went on to be the Royal Mail Cup winner. Matthew, who has been on the DSNI swimming squad for five years has represented Northern Ireland on numerous occasions at the UK Championships and in 2004 was the first swimmer from Northern Ireland to be selected for the GB squad. Matthew has since went on to represent GB at the World Championships in the Czech Republic Speaking of his success, Matthew acknowledged the role of the championship in his development. “Working with Disability Sports NI and being able to take part in the championships gave me the opportunity to take part in elite competitions. I am looking forward to the future and have set my sights on a permanent position in the GB squad.” Barbara Roulston, Head of External Relations for Royal Mail Northern Ireland, said: “Offering a great opportunity to elite, as well as recreational athletes, makes the swimming championships a special part of the Royal Mail Ready, Willing and Able for Sport programme’’ Congratulations go to Ellen Keane from Dublin who was the overall winner of the 2005 Royal Mail Cup. Ellen is ranked as an S9 swimmer and on Saturday she produced a number of fine performances. Development Officer for Disability Sports NI, Elaine Alexander said, “The Royal Mail NI Swimming Championships is a real fun and inclusive way for recreational swimmers to be introduced to the competitive scene. The gala does however play an important role in allowing DSNI to identify young swimmers and offer the support they need to help them reach their full potential.” Insert quote from Paul Donnelly, Sports Council Ends Notes to Editor: Disability Sports NI is Northern Ireland’s main disability sports organisation representing the vast majority of disability sports groups and clubs. The organisation works to provide Northern Ireland’s 201,000 disabled people with the same opportunities as non-disabled people to participate fully in sport and physical activity. The organisation annually runs programmes and events, which benefit around 6000 disabled adults and children with physical, sensory and learning disability. For further information on the programme contact: Elaine Alexander, DSNI, 028 9050 8255 ealexanderl@dsni.co.uk For media enquiries, please contact Corrina Langelaan on 028 9089 2341/078 4107 6305 or corrina.j.langelaan@royalmail.com

Title:  Knights maintain their Table topping form Date:   14th November News Details: The Knights WBC returned from England with another scalp under their belts. They travelled over on Sun 13th Nov to face Newcastle Sharks in the GB League. A superb fighting performance from the Knights saw them come back after being behind for most of the game 1st qtr 12-15, half-time 31-33, 3rd qtr 44-45, FINAL SCORE Newcastle 50 KNIGHTS 65 The Knights superb team play conquered the fantastic shooting skills of GB International Terry Bywater, who finished the game with 34 pts, but the Knights higher level of fitness and more even scoring saw them finish the game the much stronger. The Knights sit proudly at the Top of the GB Div 1 with 5 wins from 6 matches. Next match - Sat 20th Nov KNIGHTS v NOTTS JAGUARS @ Antrim Forum 2pm

Title:  SPECIAL NEEDS TRAMPOLINING COACHING COURSE Date:   3rd November News Details: Newry Sportability are running a Coaching Course for people who are interested in coaching Trampolining to people with special needs. Don't worry if you have no experience in Trampolining, over the 4 day course you will be trained in the basic skills necessary. If you are already a club coach you can do the 2 day "bolt on" course that will enable you to coach special needs Trampolining. Dates: 3rd - 6th November 2005 (4th - 6th Nov Bolt on) Venue: NEWRY SPORTS CENTRE Cost: Special Needs qualification £180. Bolt on £50. Closing date for entries is Friday 7th Oct '05 If you wish to attend this course, please contact Ciara Lowe at the Tel Num below for a booking form, cheques should be made payable to NIAGA. The exam will take place on 3rd & 4th Dec. This is the only course of its kind being run in Northern Ireland for the foreseeable future. Please register your interest early, as places will be limited. The course tutor is the very experienced Mr Peter Pinto. For any further information please contact Ciara Lowe 3031 3137 or Jean Groves jeangroves@hotmail.com

Title:  KNIGHTS TEAMS COMPETE IN JUNIORS & WOMEN'S LEAGUE Date:   31st October News Details: KNIGHTS JUNIORS mauled by the Jaguars, but shoot down the Meteors The Knights U16’s attended the 1st round of matches in this seasons GB Junior League, held at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, Aylesbury. It was a tough weekend schedule of games, with the young’uns playing 4 matches in total. 1st up were Sheffield (last years Runners-Up), the Knights were raring to go, unfortunately Sheffield were fired up also and jumped into a 14-5 lead, the NI team were working hard and playing some useful basketball with James MacSorley & Geordi Wallace getting some pts on the board, but Sheffield had the impressive Jess Pilkington in their side to pull the strings and score 12 of their 14 1st qtr points. At Half-time the score was 16-9 to Sheffield. In the 2nd half the young Knights kept plugging away and kept the score close with baskets from Jenni Lusty, James Barr & Blaise Hughes. Final Score Sheffield 26 Knights 18 Knights v Manchester The match started well with James Barr coming up with 6 pts and some tough defence. The Knights were keeping a tight zone defence with Eimear MacSorley & Daniel Black doing a good job restricting the Manchester side to long range efforts and Blaise Hughes pulling down some defensive rebounds. 1st half Knights 10 Manchester 5 In the 2nd half the Knights continued with their stifling defence while James Barr, Jenni & Zara Lusty put away some lovely baskets at the other end. Final Score Knights 22 Manchester 9 Knights v Notts Jaguars This was always going to be a tough match as Notts won the League last year. The Knights just weren’t at the races, this being their 3rd match of the w’end, tiredness was a major factor and at the end of a poor 1st half Notts led 6-2. The 2nd half saw an improvement, but the Knights just couldn’t find the net and the Jaguars stretched their lead, in the final qtr Geordi Wallace & James Barr scored a few baskets for the Knights to get a bit of respectability into the scoreline. Final Score Notts Jaguars 21 Knights 8 The final game of the w’end saw the Knights up against Liverpool Meteors. Jenni Lusty got the Knights on the scoreboard with 4 1st qtr pts and at the end of a pretty even 1st qtr the Knights held a slender 6-4 advantage, both teams were working hard on defence so opportunities were few and far between and the Liverpool team managed to even the score up at the half-time break 10-10. In the 2nd half the Knights started to employ a pressing game, this done the trick with young Geordi Wallace and Zara Lusty causing havoc among the L’pool ball handlers gaining some easy baskets for the Knights converted by Johnny McCarthy & James Barr Final Score Knights 22 Liverpool 15 2 wins & 2 losses for the Knights Juniors, some good play over the weekend and definitely great experience for these young players, next round of matches is in Jan, when again the matches will be played over at Stoke Mandeville stadium, if the Knights can put in some good performances that weekend, then a place in the Final 4 Play-offs looks a possibility. Knights Squad: Eimear MacSorley (Belfast), James MacSorley (Belfast), Daniel Black (Ballycastle), Geordi Wallace (Broughshane), Johnny McCarthy (Lisburn), Jenni Lusty (Bangor), James Barr (Antrim), Blaise Hughes (Finaghy) & Zara Lusty (Bangor) Knights new Female team find the going tough Also at Stoke Mandeville at the w’end the 1st round of matches in the GB Women’s League kicked off, seeing for the first time a team from the Knights participating. The Knights women’s team is made up from the Knights current female players along with some experienced players from both Dublin and England. In their first of 2 matches, the Knights took to the court to face London Force (last year’s winners). In an excellent match, the Knights made Force fight all the way and at the end of a seesaw first half, the scores were tied at 20-20. Jess Pilkington & Anna Jackson were doing most of the scoring for the Knights, while local based players Ruth Gracey, Eimear MacSorley, Jenni & Zara Lusty were gaining some invaluable experience against some of the best female players in GB. In the 2nd half Force stepped up a gear and the Knights were finding the going tough as Force went into a 27-20 lead, some lovely baskets by Christine Doyle kept the Knights within site of the London team, but they just couldn’t get back on level terms and Force ran out winners. London Force 43 Knights 33 In the 2nd Women’s League match, the Knights were up against the Vixens team, who boosted 3 of the GB starting 5 in their squad. The vixens all round play was excellent, they were playing as a unit exposing the Knights lack of training together. Young Jess Pilkington & Christine Doyle away some tough shots to keep the Knights within sight of the Vixens. Half-Time Vixens 16 Knights 13 The second half proved a disaster for the Knights as the Vixens hassled the Knights players all over the court creating turnover opportunities which they were converting, the Knights players just couldn’t find any rhythm and the Vixens ran out easy winners. Final Score Vixens 52 Knights 28 A bit of a baptism of fire for the newly formed Knights Women’s squad but certainly great experience, especially for the locally based Knights female players as they normally just compete in mixed teams/competitions. Knights Female Squad: Zara Lusty (Bangor), Ruth Gracey (Newtownabbey), Eimear MacSorley (Belfast), Jenni Lusty (Bangor), Christine Doyle (Dublin), Kath Davies, Jess Pilkington, Nicky Frost, Anna Jackson & Sue Conroy (all England) For further information on the Knights Juniors or Women’s teams, contact Disability Sports NI 90508255 abingham@dsni.co.uk

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND VISUAL IMPAIRMENT IFA FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT SQUAD Date:   26th October News Details: Beginning on Saturday 22nd October 2005 and continuing on a weekly basis, Saturdays 12-1pm, for males and females of any age with a visual impairment at the Olympia Leisure Centre, Boucher Road, Belfast (Indoor). The cost is Free. Please bring training gear and shoes suitable for an indoor hall. Changing/showering facilities available. The sessions will focus on Skills Progression, Mobility, Team Play and Competitive games as well as enjoyment. For more infromation on Visual Impairment Football or Disability Football in general please contact: Alan Crooks or Mal Donaghy at the Irish Football Association on 028 90 669458 or by e-mail at acrooks@irishfa.com or mdonaghy@irishfa.com

Title:  NORTHERN IRELAND CEREBRAL PALSY IFA FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT SQUAD Date:   26th October News Details: Sundays Fortnightly - 1-3pm at Billy Neill Centre of Excellence, Comber Road, Dundonald, Belfast (on grass). Starting on Sunday 9th October 2005 for Males aged 9 and Over. Ability Range: Any ability but players must be ambulant - walking. The cost is free. Players should bring Football boots, shin guards and suitable training gear for the outdoors. Changing and showering facilities are available. Focus will be on skills, mobility, teamwork and competition as well as enjoyment of course. For further