A SPORTS club that provides young disabled people with the opportunity to participate in sport is celebrating its 15th birthday next month.

The Sports on Saturday (SOS) Club at St Mary's School in Menston aims to provide young people with a range of learning and physical disabilities a safe environment to make friends and socialise whilst participating in sporting activities. Some young people have been members of the club since its inception in 2001.

The venture is run by Year 12 Sports Leaders from St Mary’s, and there has been a real growth in their understanding of disability, as well as the development of their leadership skills.

Activities enjoyed include boccia and new age kurling, which have been specifically designed for people with disabilities. Mainstream sports and games, such as rounders, tennis, circuit training and volleyball, are also played.

Some sessions are spent off site, such as riding adapted bikes at the John Charles Centre for Sport and ten pin bowling – an activity enjoyed as part of the group’s Christmas and end-of-year celebrations.

Founder of the SOS Club, Barbara Pounder, a PE teacher at St Mary’s, said: "It has been a privilege to watch the SOS Club grow.

"It provides a warm and welcoming environment for young people, whose disabilities sometimes prevent them from leading full and active lives.

"While sport is the medium for growth and improved fitness, it is the friendships that have blossomed, and are continuing to be nurtured, that gives me the most pride. Long may we continue.”

One parent, whose disabled son attends the SOS Club each week, said: “George so looks forward to his Saturday morning SOS Club experience.

"I have seen a growing enthusiasm for sport and a willingness to take part and enjoy whatever is on offer.”

The club is held each Saturday during term time in the gym at St Mary’s, from 10.30am to noon, and new members are welcome. Anyone interested in joining, or who would like to attend for a taster session, should contact Kate on 0113 2793665 or Barbara on 07973 433769.

There is currently no charge for sessions to enable increased accessibility for all. However, this does mean the club is reliant upon sponsorship and donations to continue running and provide activities for people, who would otherwise find it difficult to socialise. Contact Kate or Barbara on the numbers above if you would like to sponsor the SOS Club or assist with fundraising.