Swords Basketball Club is lucky enough to have amazing athletes compete at many different levels of the sport. The most special of them all, their men’s and women’s Special Olympics teams. These athletes are playing for something bigger than basketball, and they have a whole community behind them.
Swords Basketball Club has had a Special Olympics team for just over 10 years. They don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon with the inclusion work they are doing in the community. They support over 30 athletes weekly in training sessions, teaching them not only basketball but also other life skills. Chloe Farrell and her father, Gerry, are the two head coaches who have taken pride in their role. Special Olympics has changed their lives and those they coach.
The rest of the crew that helps with the team are all volunteers. Without their help and support, the team would not be as successful as it is. Volunteers are the heart of Special Olympics and allow for programs to be sustainable with success.
It takes a special human to impact the lives of their athletes, and they end up changing the lives of volunteers. Volunteer coach, Linn Martin, has been helping for a couple of years now. “I love being able to come back [to basketball] and give my time to the athletes. I have learned so much in terms of coaching, different abilities and inclusion, and patience. It is just so much fun. No matter what kind of day you are having, you come up here and get so much joy,” she said. Martin won the Fingal Sport Volunteer Award back in January for her dedication to the Special Olympics teams.
Beyond the court, the Swords Basketball Special Olympics program plays an important role in building friendships and a sense of belonging. The athletes look forward to training each week for the social interaction and connections it allows them. Many of the athletes became friends through the sport, and their relationships are long-lasting.
The club environment creates a safe, welcoming space where everyone is encouraged to participate in the game of basketball. The basketball program is an inspiration to those in the community around the country. Gerry and Chloe won the Special Olympics Ireland Family Spirit Award in September for their amazing work with the program in Swords.
Special Olympics Ireland supports more than 8,000 athletes nationwide, and basketball is one of its largest and most popular sports. The Swords Basketball Special Olympics team trains weekly with over 30 athletes, creating a structured environment that promotes confidence, skill development, and social connection.
Research from Special Olympics Ireland highlights that consistent participation in sport improves athletes’ physical health, communication skills, and overall sense of belonging within their communities.
As the program continues to grow, Swords Basketball Club will continue to be strong with its inclusion practices and expand the opportunities for these athletes. With commitments to their Special Olympics teams, the club will aim to ensure that all athletes feel valued, supported, and inspired through basketball.
If you are interested in volunteering with Special Olympics Ireland for basketball or any sport, look to sign up here.
