NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes can open doors to opportunities that once felt out of reach, and Brett’s journey is a powerful example of what is possible when determination meets the right support network.
At Horizon Community Services, we believe that social and community participation is about more than attending events. It is about building confidence, developing independence, and helping participants step into their full potential. For Brett, that potential is taking him all the way to Melbourne to represent Queensland in 10 Pin Bowling at the Special Olympics.
NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes
NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes can create life-changing opportunities for participants who want to pursue sporting goals, develop independence, and build confidence within their community.
At Horizon Community Services, we believe social and community participation is about far more than attending activities. It is about helping participants discover their strengths, build meaningful connections, and work towards goals that once may have felt out of reach.
Brett’s journey is a powerful example of what can happen when determination, community support, and the right NDIS supports come together.
How NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes creates opportunity
Brett recently competed in the State Games and achieved an incredible result, bringing home both gold and bronze medals in 10 Pin Bowling.
His dedication, focus, and hard work did not go unnoticed. Brett has now been selected by the Nationals Committee to represent Queensland at the upcoming Special Olympics competition in Melbourne from 10 to 12 October.
For Brett, bowling is much more than a sport.
It represents confidence, routine, pride, connection, and personal achievement.
Holding his lucky bowling ball, Brett speaks proudly about the excitement of landing a strike and hearing the pins fall. Behind those moments are months of training, discipline, and personal growth.
This is where structured community participation support can make a meaningful difference.
NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes helps participants access opportunities that encourage:
- Community involvement
- Skill development
- Confidence building
- Social connection
- Physical and emotional wellbeing
- Routine and independence
At Horizon Community Services, our social and community participation supports are tailored to each participant’s interests, goals, and abilities.
Representing Queensland on the national stage
Being selected to represent Queensland is an incredible achievement and a proud moment for Brett, his family, and the wider community.
However, attending national events can also create financial challenges for participants and families.
To compete in Melbourne, Brett needs to raise $4,900 to assist with travel, accommodation, and event-related expenses.
For many athletes with disability, these costs can become a barrier to pursuing important opportunities and personal goals.
That is why community support matters.
When we talk about NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes, we are not simply talking about funding categories. We are talking about creating a support network that encourages participants to pursue their goals with confidence.
At Horizon Community Services, we work alongside participants and families to:
- Identify personal goals
- Build participation plans
- Encourage confidence and independence
- Connect participants with community programs
- Support long-term personal development
Brett’s goal is clear. He wants to represent Queensland with pride on the national stage.
Why sport matters under the NDIS
Sport and structured activities can have a powerful impact on participant wellbeing and independence.
For many participants, involvement in community sport helps build:
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Communication skills
- Routine and responsibility
- Goal-setting abilities
- Social connections and friendships
- Physical health and emotional wellbeing
Support coordinators and families often notice positive changes in confidence and daily functioning when participants engage in activities they genuinely enjoy.
We have seen this firsthand with Brett.
His commitment to training and competition has strengthened not only his bowling skills but also his self-belief, independence, and sense of achievement.
At Horizon Community Services, we support participants across Brisbane and Logan to access activities and programs that align with their interests, passions, and personal goals.
The role of community in achieving big goals
Sport has a unique ability to bring people together.
When Brett competes in Melbourne, he will carry the encouragement of his family, support team, and wider Queensland community with him.
At Horizon Community Services, we see our role as more than simply delivering support services. We are partners in helping participants explore opportunities, build confidence, and achieve meaningful goals.
NDIS support for Special Olympics athletes reflects the broader purpose of the NDIS itself, supporting choice, independence, inclusion, and participation within the community.
Brett’s story is a reminder that with the right support, encouragement, and opportunities, participants can achieve extraordinary things.
How Horizon Community Services supports sporting and community goals
Every participant’s journey is different. Some participants may be exploring local community activities for the first time, while others are working towards state or national sporting opportunities.
Our approach includes:
- Individualised goal planning
- Support worker matching
- Transport coordination
- Community participation support
- Ongoing progress reporting
- Encouraging independence and confidence
We understand that major events and competitions can sometimes feel overwhelming. Our team works closely with participants to ensure they feel supported, prepared, and confident every step of the way.
Safety, dignity, and participant wellbeing remain at the centre of everything we do.
Support Brett’s journey to Melbourne
Brett has already demonstrated incredible dedication by winning gold and bronze medals at the State Games.
Now, he needs community support to help take the next step towards competing nationally in Melbourne.
If you would like to learn more about how Horizon Community Services supports social and community participation or discuss participant goals and support options, contact our team today.
Horizon Community Services
Phone: 07 3520 8909
Email: hello@horizoncommunityservices.au
Address: Unit 3, 13 Corporate Place, Hillcrest QLD 4118
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