Spotlight64 | BC Blind Sports Brings Goalball to Fernwood

On Monday, May 4th, two instructors from the British Columbia Blind Sports and Recreation Association stepped into Fernwood Elementary and introduced students to Goalball, a Paralympic sport where players rely on sound to track a ball with a bell inside.

Students closed their eyes, listened closely, and practiced following the ball by sound rather than sight as it chimed across the gym. As they played, they strengthened empathy, confidence, and teamwork….and they had plenty of fun! 

While students learned, the instructors coached teachers too, sharing tips and mentorship to confidently incorporate Goalball and other inclusive activities into the PE curriculum. BC Blind Sports also works to grow opportunities beyond schools and into the community, kindly donated equipment so that Fernwood can keep the games going at school.

Heidi Cameron’s Grade 2 class and Cathryn Pyper’s Grade 1/2 class took the first turns, putting their listening skills to the test, learning to pass with precision while tuning in to every bounce and ring. After such an amazing start, Fernwood is excited to build an ongoing partnership with BC Blind Sports. The instructors will be back next week, again at the beginning of June, and in the fall, welcoming more students and teachers into the game.

A big thank you to Becky Wall, Learning Intervention and Support Teacher, for initiating the BC Blind Sports visits and helping spark a partnership that supports inclusive athletics opportunities for Fernwood students - opportunities offered free of charge.

To learn more about the British Columbia Blind Sports and Recreation Association and the many programs and services they offer, please visit their website.

Shout out to Leah Ashford for sharing this story idea and celebrating inclusive learning in our schools.