Cerebral Palsy Society of New Zealand

“Old hands” inspire new players
Paul Munckhof and Maurice Toon receiving their Eve Rimmer Scholarships	Whakatane’s Eve Rimmer Games is a great event to introduce youngsters to the sport of their choice. Scattered among the novices were highly respected veteran athletes like Jim Savage who, just by participating, inspired the youth to be the best they can be. Boccia had its own veterans like Paralympians Paul Munckhof and Maurice Toon who are building up for Beijing. It was good to see the newcomers stay behind and watch the players who have reached the elite level. At the prize giving Paul and Maurice were rewarded with the Eve Rimmer Scholarship, (Level One: international) and deservedly so. BC3 player Mandy Slade is also building up to the Beijing Paralympics and her progress is excellent. Every ball she rolled with purpose, which made her a tough competitor to beat.
At the beginning of the three day Easter tournament the new players were chucking their boccia balls out as fast as possible and some were determined to hit the white target ball every time. By the end of the weekend they learnt from the “old hands” to take their time and use up their allotted five minutes per end and it is not necessary to hit the target ball. They quickly found out that the main aim is to get close to it.
The newcomers had a bonus during prize giving as they had the privilege of hearing the words of wisdom from guest speaker Ray Gurran who was Eve Rimmer’s coach during her celebrated Paralympic career. Whakatane holds these games every two years and if you are a keen young athlete looking for a sporting career it is highly recommended you attend this well organised event next time around. Photo gallery Ross Flood- Editor 55 Hillside Road Papatoetoe Auckland Phone/Fax (including answer phone) (09) 278-7106 Email Ross Flood