Study Notes on Disability in Sport by Dr. Rob Townsend

Introduction

• Dr. Rob Townsend speaks about disability in sport and his role at Sport New Zealand.

Role and Responsibilities

• Leads strategic initiatives to support disabled youth participation in sports and recreation.

• Works to increase coach capability and inclusivity in sports organizations.

• Focus on investment in organizations for disabled youth opportunities.

Key Concepts in Disability and Sport

• Disability Policy Context: Long-standing priority in New Zealand's sport policy.

• Social vs. Medical Model:

  • Medical Model: Disability caused by body/mind differences.

  • Social Model: Disability caused by societal barriers and attitudes.

• Ableism: Systemic privilege of able-bodiedness.

Challenges in the Sector

• Competing organizations led to fragmented participation pathways for disabled youth.

• Non-inclusive environments inhibit participation.

Investment Strategies

• Sport New Zealand's funding allocated to mainstream organizations for inclusive projects.

• Focus on young people with intellectual and invisible disabilities.

Principles Guiding Work

• Focus on reducing barriers to participation.

• Emphasis on recognizing disability in terms of environmental and systemic problems.

Call to Action for Students

• Reflect on inclusivity in local community contexts and potential barriers.

• Identify decisions, environments, and messages that might exclude disabled individuals.

• Advocate for necessary accommodations in various sports and activities.