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falling behind in sports engagement, denying them the https://www.un.org/development/desa/disabilities/
myriad benefits associated with sports involvement? convention-on-the-rights-of-persons-with-
disabilities/article-30-participation-in-
By definition, people with disabilities face obstacles cultural-life-recreation-leisure-and-sport.
to participating in sports. Their delayed involvement html
hampers the development of what we now call “physical
literacy.” As a result, they can’t fully engage in sports, International Physical Literacy Association. (2014,
possibly only observing from the sidelines. Furthermore, May). What is Physical Literacy? Retrieved from
scarce chances to join in, particularly at the local level, https://physicalliteracy.ca/physical-literacy/
worsen their situation. The lack of role models adds to
this problem, robbing them of the feeling of belonging Kurth, J. A., & Gross, M. (2015). The Inclusion Toolbox:
and enthusiasm for sports. Addressing these challenges Strategies and Techniques for All Teachers.
necessitates a degree of ingenuity and the creation of
adapted versions of sports, ensuring accessibility for Laureus. (2014, May 21). 15 years of Laureus: The
all. It requires embracing creativity to tailor sports in anniversary of a very special speech. Retrieved
a manner that fosters inclusivity, allowing anyone to from https://www.laureus.com/news/15-
participate regardless of ability. years-of-laureus-the-anniversary-of-a-very-
special-speech#
Conclusion
While this essay may not have delved deeply into Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Catalyst. In Merriam-Webster.
specific adaptations for various disabilities, it com dictionary. Retrieved March 24, 2024, from
intentionally sheds light on the pivotal role sports play. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/
Sports transcend mere recreation; it act as agents of catalyst
personal and social change. By embracing the principles
of inclusion, empathy, and understanding inherent National Curriculum Framework. (2023). Physical
in sports, societies can strive towards a more fair and Education and Well-being. New Delhi, India:
cohesive world. National Council of Educational Research and
Training (NCERT).
However, it’s crucial to recognize that adaptations exist.
Yet, comprehending the transformative influence of Pečnikar Oblak, V., Campos, M.J., Lemos, S., Rocha, M.,
sports and encouraging participation, whether as a Ljubotina, P., Poteko, K., Kárpáti, O., Farkas, J.,
parent motivating a young adult, a teacher inspiring Perényi, S., Kustura, U., Massart, A., & Doupona,
a student, or society fostering inclusivity, holds M. (2023, August 23). Social Inclusion in Sport
paramount importance. Without grasping this concept, for People with Disabilities. In Encyclopedia.
the discourse remains incomplete, and the significance https://encyclopedia.pub/entry/48374
of sports in the lives of individuals with diverse abilities
goes unrecognized. Rekha, M. U., & Murthy, R. K. (Eds.). (2017). Inclusive
Practices. Hyderabad: Neelkamal Publications
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