A sport similar to Bowls and Pétanque, Boccia is a precision target sport played indoors with soft leather balls.
Residents of Awel y Mor, which is run by Barchester Healthcare, have been getting to grips with the new sport, with tuition from James and David organised by Swansea Council’s Sport and Health department.
The athletes have been explaining the tactics of the games and the different types of throws. David very kindly gifted the residents their own set of balls so they can practise between training sessions.
James plays wheelchair basketball for Swansea Storm and David represents Team GB playing Boccia in the BC1 category and also the mixed team.
The BC1 category is for athletes with significant impairment of all four limbs and the trunk. David, being a five-time Paralympic medalist, ten-time World Championships, and ten-time European medalist made quite an impression on the residents who felt very privileged to have him coach them.
Lynda Hamilton Shaw, General Manager of Awel y Mor, said:
“Our residents have really enjoyed trying out a new sport with help from James and David. They have loved learning about the different throws and blocks, it has certainly brought out everyone’s competitive side.
“We all look forward to our training sessions and we can see a definite improvement in everyone’s technique.”
Awel y Mor care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, and provides residential and nursing care for 58 residents from respite care to long-term stays.
[Lead image: Barchester Healthcare]
