JAMES’ STORY: EMPOWERING ABILITIES THROUGH DISABILITY TAG RUGBY

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Children with disabilities often face barriers to participating in sports, which can negatively impact their physical and social development. James, who has Downs Syndrome loves sport and since he was 8 years old has played tag rugby, but when James was 10, his family moved to Witney and they found that there was no disability tag rugby team for James to join.

James’ mum Linda said

“James was generally rejected from normal sporting activities and he had found a sense of belonging playing tag rugby so we were very keen that there was a local disability tag rugby team that he could be involved with”

It wasn’t an easy road but eventually James’ parents persuaded the club to allow them to create the Witney Wolves disability tag rugby team giving James the opportunity to play the game that he loved once again. The Witney Wolves disability tag rugby team started with only 8 children but now there are 30 children involved.

James was so excited to play tag rugby again. His physical abilities improved significantly, and he developed a strong sense of belonging with his teammates. Linda said that she saw a positive shift in his self-confidence which meant that he was more open to join in and give other things a go. Things that he would have been reticent to try beforehand.

When James was 12 tag rugby opened the door again for him and his family to go on a rugby tour. Linda explained that the tour is all about the young people having fun and being part of a team. It doesn’t matter if they win or lose and all the participants receive a medal for joining in. It was a wonderful inclusive experience focusing on building connections between children with different abilities who typically struggle with communication. They flourish when rugby is involved.

James is now 25, lives independently and helps out at Leicester Tigers Downs Syndromes tag rugby team. He is helping the coaches to guide and assist the young children, hoping to give those young children the same opportunity to experience all the positive benefits that tag rugby has given to him.

Some of the Benefits of Disability Tag Rugby for Children with Disabilities:

• Physical Fitness and Motor Skills Development: Disability tag rugby promotes physical activity, helping children improve their cardiovascular health, strength, and coordination.
• Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence: Success in tag rugby, regardless of ability level, boosts the self-esteem and confidence of children with disabilities.
• Cognitive and Emotional Benefits: The strategic nature of tag rugby enhances cognitive skills such as decision-making, problem-solving, and spatial awareness.
• Community Engagement: By showcasing the capabilities of children with disabilities, we hope to change the perceptions of society, thus promoting all-inclusive sports.