Bowling for the differently-abled
The Plettenberg Bay Bowling Club is happy to announce the availability of coaching for differently-abled members of the Plett community.
And indeed, the club has its first enthusiastic trainee, Dave Coutts, who had a stroke a year ago. “This is great mind therapy.” says differently-abled Dave who is thoroughly enjoying his weekly coaching sessions with coach Larry Deferville, with input and support from Julie.
“Good for the soul and good for your health”
Julie is differently-abled herself and recently participated in the 56th South African National Championships of Lawn Bowls for the Disabled. She and her partner, Vicky van der Merwe from Newcastle, won the gold medal. This was a proud moment for her and she could not have achieved these results without the support of Rita Hardaker from the Differently-abled Awareness Campaign.
Bowling (Lawn Bowls) is a game where differently-abled individuals can compete alongside able-bodied players.
As in the Paralympics, differently-abled bowlers are graded according to their physical or vision limitations.
Reasons to take up bowls ‘1sport4life’
Bowls is a great way to lift the spirits and have fun while reaping the mental and physical health benefits. The elderly or people with exercise limitations can easily incorporate this low-impact activity into their exercise routine.
There are numerous health benefits, which include the strengthening of muscles, improved flexibility and balance, and hand-eye coordination. But most importantly, played as a past time, bowling offers a great social life.
“Bowling offers a positive mindset and in turn a healthy lifestyle. After a few sessions on the bowling green, the mental and physical benefits surpass all your inhibitions.” says Julie, “I highly recommend this sport for anyone (we are all ‘differently-abled’ in some way) of any age, who wants to take advantage of these benefits.
If you’re looking for a fun way to add interest to your exercise routine and life, try bowling!
Contact the Head Coach of the Plettenberg Bay Bowling Club, Clyde Campbell on 082 572 1022 to book your lessons.