Badminton and Para-Badminton Unite at Julio Díaz Rehabilitation Hospital
Last Thursday, a remarkable gathering of badminton and para-badminton athletes alongside individuals with disabilities took place at the julio Díaz Rehabilitation Hospital in Boyeros’ Fontanar neighborhood. This event marked another successful chapter in a series of initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity through sports.
Organizers and Their Vision
Leading the event were Joel Alvisa, a Rehabilitation specialist, and Gilberto Amador, a seasoned coach for individuals with disabilities since 2014. Amador, who also serves as the technical head of badminton and para-badminton in Havana and coaches the national pre-selection team for athletes with disabilities, has been instrumental in organizing these gatherings since their inception in June 2023.
This latest meeting, the fourth in the series, saw a smaller turnout of hospital patients compared to previous events. The timing coincided with treatment and therapy sessions for many potential participants, limiting their involvement.
Participants and goals
The delegation included both conventional athletes and a dedicated group of para-badminton players from Havana. Dr. Alvisa emphasized that the primary aim of these events is to encourage sports participation among individuals with disabilities and to highlight badminton as a viable professional sport for those with physical and mental challenges. “Sport and health are a winning combination,” he stated, underscoring the importance of integrating patients into these enriching activities.
Future plans and Challenges
When asked about the possibility of a fifth meeting, Alvisa hinted that it might occur within two months, likely in April. However, scheduling such events in advance remains a challenge due to the reliance on limited resources and the tireless efforts of the organizers and participants.
transportation and sports equipment for these gatherings are made possible through the dedication of this passionate group. Their unwavering commitment showcases the profound benefits of physical activity, regardless of one’s health condition.
Additional Updates
In other news, registration for Marabana 2025 has officially begun.
Exclusive Interview with Gilberto Amador: Uniting Badminton and Para-Badminton for Inclusivity
Moderator: Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re honored to have Gilberto Amador, a seasoned coach and technical head of badminton and para-badminton in Havana, joining us. Gilberto,thank you for taking the time to speak with us.
Gilberto Amador: Thank you for having me. It’s always a pleasure to discuss the work we’re doing to promote inclusivity through sports.
Moderator: Let’s dive right in.Last Thursday, you and Dr. joel Alvisa organized another remarkable event at the Julio Díaz Rehabilitation Hospital. Can you tell us more about the vision behind these gatherings?
Gilberto Amador: Absolutely. The vision is simple yet powerful: to foster inclusivity through sports. We want to encourage individuals with disabilities to participate in badminton and para-badminton, not just as a recreational activity but as a viable professional sport. Dr. alvisa and I believe that sports and health go hand in hand, and these events are a testament to that belief.
Moderator: That’s inspiring. Though, the latest event saw a smaller turnout of hospital patients compared to previous ones. What challenges are you facing in organizing these gatherings?
Gilberto Amador: The main challenge is timing. Many potential participants are undergoing treatment or therapy sessions, which limits their ability to attend. Additionally, we rely heavily on limited resources for transportation and sports equipment. Despite these hurdles, our team remains dedicated, and we’re constantly exploring ways to improve participation.
Moderator: Your commitment is commendable. Let’s talk about the participants. This event included both conventional athletes and para-badminton players. How do these interactions benefit both groups?
Gilberto Amador: The interactions are invaluable. Conventional athletes gain a deeper understanding of perseverance and resilience, while para-badminton players feel included and motivated. It’s a mutual exchange of respect and admiration that enriches everyone involved.
Moderator: Dr. Alvisa mentioned that the next event might take place in April. What can we expect from the fifth gathering?
Gilberto Amador: We’re aiming to make it even more impactful. We’re working on securing additional resources and exploring creative ways to engage more hospital patients. The goal remains the same: to showcase the profound benefits of physical activity, regardless of one’s health condition.
Moderator: On a broader scale, what do you think needs to be done to promote para-badminton as a professional sport?
Gilberto Amador: Awareness and funding are key. We need more events like this to highlight the talent and potential of para-badminton players. Additionally, collaboration with sports organizations and government bodies can provide the necessary support to elevate the sport to new heights.
Moderator: That’s a great point. Before we wrap up, what message would you like to share with our readers about the importance of inclusivity in sports?
Gilberto Amador: Sports have the power to unite people from all walks of life. Inclusivity in sports isn’t just about participation; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and proving that every individual, regardless of their abilities, can achieve greatness.
Moderator: Thank you, Gilberto, for sharing your insights. Readers, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Do you think initiatives like this can make a difference in promoting inclusivity in sports? Share your opinions in the comments below!
In the meantime, don’t forget to check out the latest updates on marabana 2025, as registration has officially begun. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the world of sports!
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