Leschenault Leisure Centre to come alive with paralympic sports as host of the WA Multi-Sport Day

Potential future Paralympians are being asked to give a number of sports a go at a showcase in Australind.

The Leschenault Leisure Centre will play host to the Paralympics Australia Multi-Sport Day on Sunday, giving local athletes a chance to try out para-sports.

Seven sports are confirmed to be at the event, with para-badminton, taekwondo, athletics, archery, wheelchair basketball, tennis and sitting volleyball all on offer.

A number of Paralympians will be attending, including Bunbury’s own Brad Scott, who won three Paralympic medals in athletics between 2008 and 2016.

Scott said he was “super excited” to see the event coming to the South West, noting it was an event that meant much to him.

“It was a day, identical to this, back in 2006 that started my Paralympic journey,” he said.

“In knowing our region has a wealth of talent when it comes to sport as so many have gone on to represent our country, I am excited to see aspiring para-athletes have some fun trying a variety of sports and who knows, maybe one day, don the green and gold.”

Scott encouraged local athletes to “step outside their comfort zone” and try out a new sport.

“It can be nerve-wracking and exciting, but also super rewarding,” he said.

“Honestly, I thought I hated running for many years. It wasn’t until I gave it a proper shot that I realised I didn’t just enjoy it, I was actually pretty good too. So, give everything a shot.”

The event is part of a national roadshow designed to offer those of all ages and abilities the chance to try Paralympic sports, meet experts, connect with local clubs and potentially start their Paralympic journey.

WA pathways coordinator Chrissie Banwell said there were already para-sports opportunities in the South West, but the organisation found awareness of those opportunities was a barrier to participation.

“We hope that this event will assist in promoting these clubs and activities to those located in the South West and attract some more participants that perhaps did not know this was available in their local area,” she said.

People aged 10 years and up can participate, although those under 18 must have a parent or guardian present.

The event will take place at LLC on Sunday between 11am and 2pm.

Entry and participation is free but registrations are required. Those seeking to have a go are reminded to wear comfortable clothing, suitable footwear and a bring a water bottle.

Potential participants can register for the event at www.paralympic.org.au/mec-events/wa-multi-sport-day-australind.

The event is supported by the Australian Sports Commission.