Disability Sports Australia assists Disability Recreation and Sports SA members

Following a decision at a special General Meeting last Sunday by the membership of Disability Recreation and Sports SA (DRSSA) to wind up the organisation and enter into liquidation, immediate assistance is being provided by Disability Sports Australia (DSA) to DRSSA members.

DSA is the peak national body for athletes with a physical disability providing programs across a broad range of sports and recreational activities from grass roots up to the elite level. DRSSA was the independent state member of DSA in South Australia.

DSA CEO, Jenni Cole, who has been working closely with DRSSA said, “We have been unable to make any public statements until a DRSSA Board decision had been reached. While we hoped for DRSSA to be able to continue, we were working to safeguard core programs and minimise any potential impact on people with a disability in South Australia.”

“We have been working with DRSSA to identify the key people and programs and have already commenced working directly with several sports.”

“As the governing body for wheelchair rugby in Australia, DSA is committed to the wheelchair rugby program and is directly supporting the AAMI SA Sharks to enable them to attend the 2019 GIO Wheelchair Rugby National Championship being held in Sydney from 28 – 30 June. This includes financial and logistical assistance as well as planning for further support to ensure the growth and future of the sport in SA.”

“In April, DSA held the Invacare 2019 Wheelchair Aussie Rules National Carnival at the St Clair Recreation Centre in SA in conjunction with the SANFL. DSA will continue to work with the SANFL and other key stakeholders in growing a developing this exciting sports program in SA.”

“It is unfortunate timing that the team from Bowls SA were unable to compete at the 2019 Multi Disability Bowls Championships being held this week in Mackay, Queensland. An offer of logistical support was unfortunately unable to be utilised due to funding problems. DSA is continuing to work with Bowls SA to provide assistance for bowlers in the future.”

“At the request of team management and with the agreement of DRSSA, DSA has taken on direct support of the Adelaide Thunder wheelchair basketball team competing in the Wheelchair Basketball National League.”

“DSA are also developing Race Running in SA and is working directly with Novita, Athletics SA and other stakeholders to grow and develop this emerging para-athletics discipline in SA for athletes with cerebral palsy and other more severe disabilities.”

“Inclusive Sport SA are currently undertaking a project providing a review of sustainable models for disability sport in SA. As a key identified stakeholder, DSA is working with project managers, BDO, on this important SA Government funded initiative.”

“We will work with DRSSA’s appointed administrators to provide all possible assistance. Understandably, many people are concerned and we encourage any DRSSA members to contact Disability Sports Australia directly via info@sports.org.au.”