From 24-26 February 2023, Team Australia came together for a full team training camp as they prepare to take on the world at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin in June.
It was a slow start due to traffic delays, but once everyone came together there was a buzz of excitement as team members from around Australia met up, many for the first time.
The celebration kicked off with an official welcome function where athletes cheered the volunteer officials and enjoyed a preview of what lies ahead on the road to Berlin.
But the biggest roar came when JAGGAD gave the delegation a sneak peek of the official team uniforms which they have designed and manufactured for free!
Day Two of the Team Australia Training Camp was all about training and team bonding! Bright and early all nine sports teams headed out to venues across the City of Casey to hone their skills and prepare for the biggest event on the planet this year – the Special Olympics World Summer Games.
They returned exhausted, but excited and were eager to gather for a group selfie.
An evening of team bonding followed where each group presented their goals for the World Games and some experienced officials gave tips about being part of an Australian delegation – like wearing your uniform with pride and respecting its dignity at all times.
Bocce Coach, Jeff Stewart summed up the delegation by saying, “Although we are nine sports teams, we’re one big team together.”
Day Three was all about inspiration and motivation. Team Australia were privileged to have special guest speakers Rachael Lynch and Dane Monaghan share their tips for the team.
Rachael Lynch is a dual Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medallist in hockey who understands the thrill and pressure of Australian representation. She shared her experience and kind support with Team Australia and they soaked up her thoughts.
Dane Monaghan is a physiotherapist who has experience working with Australian representatives and he also has a Monaghan-clan connection to supporting athletes of Special Olympics Australia. He shared his expert tips on all the things athletes should consider to be their best in Berlin, including hydration, stretching and much, much more.
Then on Sunday afternoon, bags were packed and hugs were given as athletes said farewell to the Team Australia Training Camp. Next time they meet it will be on a plane heading to Berlin!
Susie Bennett-Yeo, Head of Delegation sent the athletes off with this thought: "You are the new cohort of Australian representatives and you will be part of the rich history of the World Games. Go Team Australia!"
media@specialolympics.com.au
Photo: The unofficial Team Australia portrait by Head of Delegation and selfie queen Susie Bennett-Yeo was just part of the fun at camp.
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