Bowling Benefits All Abilities
By Emily Rennes
Meet Izzy, one of many stand-out bowlers loving Bowl Patrol, here at ZONE Bowling in Rockingham WA her dreams are coming true!
After trying a number of other sports, Izzy and her mum were frustrated at the limited range of options on offer. Luckily, Bowl Patrol is designed with every child in mind; a truly inclusive program which utilises ground-breaking modifications and resources to provide an ideal learning environment. In term 2 of this year, they found tenpin bowling, Isabelle’s “very proud” mum Katrina writes;
“My child is not only autistic but has another syndrome which causes bone pain and she is unable to do many sports. Tenpin Bowling has offered her the opportunity to be a part of the community through a sport. There are no words for how highly I think of Bowl Patrol and the staff. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for offering such a fantastic thing for children of all ages and walks of life.”
Under the skilled guidance of Lane Rangers Cheryl and Chelsea Oliver, Izzy has progressed through the eight stages of Bowl Patrol across two terms, recently achieving her black band – the highest level in Bowl Patrol. Noticing her obvious talent Cheryl has purchased Izzy her own ball, having it drilled to fit her hand precisely. She’s had a fantastic term 3, making friends and learning about a sport she now adores.
“Socially it is fantastic for my child too without being overwhelming. I would highly recommend (Bowl Patrol) to any parent of children with special needs. Inclusion is such a huge thing missing in sport in the early years for children with physical and social needs and Bowl Patrol has provided inclusion for my child.”
We couldn’t be more proud! Congratulations Isabelle. Past and present Bowl Patrol participants are currently discussing options to start a Junior League after graduating from Bowl Patrol – TBA and TBAWA are here to support them on their way to State and National representation in years to come. If you’d like to know more about Bowl Patrol visit the website, Facebook or email [email protected]. Tenping Bowling Australia wishes to acknowledge our WA Sport Development Officer Mia Buswell, the Tenpin Bowling Association of WA and other service providers who have helped make this happen.
