Paralympics Ireland hosted a successful Allianz NextGen Discovery Event at the Kingfisher Club, University of Galway, on Saturday, 17 October, bringing people with disabilities and their families together to explore opportunities in Para sport.
Delivered in partnership with Allianz, NextGen creates opportunities for people to discover sports they enjoy, connect with clubs and coaches, and find support to take their next step. The Galway event welcomed those exploring sport for the first time alongside people already active and interested in trying something different.
With opportunities to try Para sports and learn about the pathways available, the day centred on making sport more accessible and helping participants discover what is possible. Families and support networks also had the opportunity to ask questions and find out how to support continued involvement.
The success of Allianz NextGen is about more than a single day. Connecting participants with clubs and sporting organisations helps turn an initial interest into regular participation, whether that means enjoying sport in the local community or pursuing a competitive pathway.
Events such as Galway play an important role in that process, bringing opportunities closer to people and creating a welcoming starting point for those unsure where to begin. For someone already involved in sport, NextGen can also offer a chance to explore a new discipline and consider where their skills might take them.
Speaking about Allianz NextGen Galway, Cliona Horan Para Community Lead said: “It was brilliant to see people getting involved, trying something new and discovering the opportunities available to them in Para sport. That’s what Allianz NextGen is all about, giving people the chance to explore what they enjoy and helping them take the next step. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Galway and to the clubs, coaches and volunteers who made it such a welcoming day. A huge thank you to the occupational therapy students from University of Galway for their enthusiasm and support throughout the event. They helped make it such a positive experience for participants and their families.”
To learn more about Allianz NextGen and opportunities to get involved in Para sport, visit paralympics.ie/nextgen or contact allianznextgen@paralympics.ie.
