General News
27 March, 2026
All-abilities program for fun and inclusivity
An all-abilities tournament day focused on connection, fun and inclusivity in sport will be held in April in Horsham.
A partnership between Kelly Sports and the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, the day is designed to bring together participants of all abilities in an energy-focused, supportive environment.
Executive Officer of WRSA, Tony Caccaviello, is calling on attendees to be a bit brave and give it a go, adding that they might just discover an activity they love!
Backed by Special Olympics Australia, participants will be able to focus on confidence, community, participation and teamwork, while creating connections with local clubs and pathways for sport beyond the day.
Attendees will participate in five sports: basketball, bowling, golf, indoor soccer, and netball, each engaging and suitable for all ability levels.
"The idea behind the carnival is we want to have as many people participating in sport and being active in the community and we recognise there isn't a heap of specific all-ability activities and initiatives that exist in the wider Wimmera," Mr Caccaviello said.
"As always, particularly in the holidays, parents are always looking for activities for their children to be active and engaging, as an alternative to escaping the old screen time, etc, so that is the genesis behind the program.
"We are hoping to have as many participants as possible take part in an inclusive, safe environment that matches abilities and skills, having a day of fun, running around, a bit of huff and puff, enjoying all the great things that being active and sport has to offer."
The event will be held in a carnival format, where participants are part of a team and each sport will run in a round-robin format, giving everyone opportunities to enjoy the experience, improve their skills and participate.
Another benefit of the program is the opportunity to create connections and form friendships with other participants.
"I think that is one of the greatest things about playing any sort of sport," Mr Caccaviello said.
"You get to connect with people who usually have interests similiar and it's just the chance to chat with people.
"While sport is the reason you go somewhere, the other experience that can be valuable is connecting with other people.
"So that's what we are hoping, and then also people might find a passion in the sport.
"This might be one event, but hopefully it can lead to falling in love with a sport or making a new connection or friend, with the ongoing benefits from that."
And to those people who are contemplating participating, but just need a bit of extra encouragement, Mr Caccaviello has this to say:
"Give it a go," he said.
"We're welcoming, and there will be coaches to help support you.
"I think if you give yourself the chance, you might find something you like.
"It's a big step, you probably have to be a bit brave, but a bit of courage can go a long way."
There will be two age groups for the event: 10 to 15-year-olds and 16 years plus.
The event will be held at the Horsham Basketball Stadium from 9am to 4pm, and the cost is $10 per person.
Bookings can be made through https://www.kellysports.com.au/kelly_events/view/41922