THE UNIVERSITY of Worcester Arena, the country’s first fully inclusive sports arena, has been named at the next host venue of the British Paralympic Association (BPA) ‘Sports Fest’ series.
The Arena, which was designed and built to cater to the specific needs of disabled athletes, will welcome BPA Director of Sport, Penny Briscoe MP, and a series of London 2012 Paralympic medallists on November 24 and 25.
The event will aim to capture some of the excitement and enthusiasm that surrounded last year’s Paralympics, with disabled people able to take part in ‘Meet the Medallist’ sessions and view demonstrations of several Paralympic sports.
London 2012 Paralympic discus champion Josie Pearson and silver medallist Dan Greaves have both already been confirmed as ambassadors for the two-day event.
Mick Donovan, head of sport and exercise science at the University of Worcester, said: “We are delighted that the BPA have chosen to bring their Sports Fest event to the University Arena.
“This demonstrates the impact that the University Arena has had since its opening earlier this year – we have already staged numerous disability events and have received excellent feedback from athletes, coaches, officials and spectators.
“The aim of the University Arena has always been to make sport inclusive for all. We are delighted that the BPA recognise how successful the venue has been in achieving this, and we look forward to welcoming them in November.”
Following on from the success of the London 2012 Paralympics, the Sports Fest events are designed to give disabled people the opportunity try out different sports.
Pearson, who represented Great Britain in wheelchair rugby before switching her attentions to the throwing events, added: “I’m delighted to be named as a Sports Fest ambassador as the event is celebrated in Worcester.
“As a Paralympian who has competed in both Wheelchair Rugby and Athletics, I know how fantastic it is to have the opportunity to try out a range of different sports all under one roof!”
“I’m really looking forward to the event and to meeting some of the people who sign up to Sports Fest Worcester.”
Also taking part in the day will be students from the University of Worcester’s Disability Sports Coaching course – thought to be the first degree dedicated to producing experts in disability sport and fitness.
Mr Donovan added: “Disability sport has been something that we at the University of Worcester have been committed to for several years, and we are extremely proud to offer such a unique course.
“This event will give our students a wonderful opportunity to interact with elite level disabled athletes and Paralympic coaches, and to develop their knowledge even further.”
To register for Sports Fest, visit www.sportsfest.uk.com.