Rita Wright, Fit for Life Manager at Reigate and Redhill YMCA, first met Chris Myers as a 16-year-old, two years ago. Rita explains Chris' passion for the game Boccia and how he has helped develop the sport at the IFI accredited facility.
Chris has Cerebral Palsy and attends the YMCA Boccia Club with the help of either his dad or his PA, Alicia. As Chris has no speech, he uses a communication aid to give him a voice, but can also make himself understood with his big smile or droopy bottom lip if he is not happy. Chris is a very bright, funny person and soon became extremely popular amongst club members.
When the YMCA ran Fitness Pioneers scheme, which helps disabled people gain a recognised qualification in sports, Chris signed up to become a Level 1 Boccia Coach.
In March, he attended the course and gained his qualification – now there was no stopping him. He offered to help assist in our Boccia club on a Saturday and was soon planning and delivering sessions. The club is for children and young people with any disability. Chris is a very mature young person, who is compassionate and understanding for other people and was clearly an inspiration to all.
With his experience in managing play of the game, he joined the YMCA team of Boccia officials and went on to help out in the Surrey Youth Games Boccia Tournament. Over 100 disabled children attended and Chris helped referee the junior competition. Mr Myers, Chris’ father commented,
"I am so proud of Christopher and never imagined that I would be standing on the touchline watching my son play or referee a sport. Boccia may be inside, but it is very competitive sport, and this has given Chris a lot of enjoyment."
For further details contact: Rita Wright, Fit for Life Manager. Tel: 01737 784976. Alternatively please call the IFI head office on 0114 257 2060 (Textphone users add prefix 18001)
