Inclusion in the outdoor pool: Unforgettable day for all generations!

Inclusion in the outdoor pool: Unforgettable day for all generations!

In this first real summer week of the year, the members of the inclusive club made their way to the Borgentreicher outdoor pool to spend an entertaining and refreshing day. The weather conditions were optimal and suitable for a trip into the water. As the Beverunger Rundschau reported, the club's board member Natalia Friesen expressed her enthusiasm about the outdoor pool, which offers an excellent view of the pools with its well-designed areas.

The various activities in the outdoor pool ensured that everyone got their money's worth. Underwater massages, bubbling jets and fast slides ensured fun for all age groups. The relaxation and health offerings were particularly met with great enthusiasm. “We had a fun day with a lot of laughter and exchange,” said a club member happily about the hours spent. It is well known that water is particularly important for people with disabilities, as it not only helps them relax but also has a physically beneficial effect.

Insight into inclusive offers

The visit to the outdoor pool is part of a broader movement to include people with disabilities in sport. From the REHACARE shows that water sports such as swimming, canoeing and rowing are strongly promoted in North Rhine-Westphalia. BRSNW, the organization behind these offerings, has created a variety of activities specifically designed for people with disabilities.

Particularly noteworthy is the establishment of a state base for para-rowing in Cologne, precisely since November 7, 2021. Interested athletes can take part here to improve their rowing skills and take part in trial days in the summer. The range of inclusive water sports is varied and ranges from canoeing to sailing, with the construction of a rowing ergometer offering special training options.

The social context

Although it offers progress, participation in sport by people with disabilities is still characterized by challenges. According to the article on bpb, shows the social reality that only around 13% of students with special educational needs are taught in mainstream schools. Although many children with disabilities find themselves in integrative soccer teams, access to broader sports structures could be better.

Inclusion in sport is therefore a topic of great importance that is not only limited to sporting abilities, but also promotes social participation. The experiences of the club members in the outdoor pool are emblematic of the positive aspects of an inclusive sports culture, where everyone can enjoy exercise and water for themselves, but also with each other.

The club's next excursion will be on Saturday, August 16th, to the Hofgeismar Zoo in Sababurg. It will be exciting to see what other experiences this inclusive community has in store in the future. The members are already looking forward to new adventures and growing together.