Central Coast News

Organised by NDIS partner Social Futures in conjunction with Blind Sports and Recreation, the Blind Cricket Community Challenge showcases a sport enjoyed worldwide, while raising awareness and understanding for the 5.5 million people (1 in 5) living with disability in Australia.

Former captain of the New South Wales Blind Cricket Team and Social Futures Community Development Coordinator, Scott Jones said the competition is heating up heading into its third year.

“The Blind Cricket Community Challenge offers participants a chance to wear experiential glasses that replicate different vision impairments, and players bowl underarm using an audible ball so others on the field can hear it coming,” said Scott.

“With scores level at one apiece, this third match will break the tie as both sides are gearing up for a spirited rematch.”

Each side will be captained by a professional athlete from Blind Cricket Australia, providing lots of great tips along the way.

The whole community is invited to join in kicking the day off at 11am with a ‘come and try’ session where everyone is welcome to have a go at batting and bowling out on the pitch, where experts will be on hand to guide participants.

Enjoy tandem bike rides designed for people living with visual impairment, meet seeing eye dogs, and tuck into a free BBQ lunch before the big match starts at 1pm.

Reflecting on this year’s United Nations IDPwD theme “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”, Scott said skills developed by players benefit them on and off the field.

“As a former captain of the NSW Blind Cricket team, I’ve seen firsthand how sport develops leadership qualities in people living with disability,” said Scott.

“Playing Blind Cricket teaches adaptability, strategic thinking, and fosters teamwork. These are qualities players carry with them off the field and into leadership roles in our communities.”

Disability sports are a great way for people to connect and meet new friends, spend some extra time enjoying the outdoors and improve health and fitness.

NDIS partner Social Futures also offers The Blind Cricket Experience as a free initiative for NSW schools. For more information visit Social Futures Blind Cricket?or call 1800 719 625.