A few months ago, no-one in Chrissy Gillespie’s Wednesday gym class could skip because of their disabilities, but now they are not only skipping, but sparring in the boxing ring.
The boxing trainer was brought on board by a group of parents and carers to deliver weekly sessions in Richmond for a small group of adults with disabilities, with funding from a private benefactor making it possible.
One of the parents, Sandra Doocey, says it is a different world for those with disabilities after they leave the support and consistency of school. The group ranges in age from 20 to their 40s, and while they all participate in other activities during the week, she says the group session has become a community that provides physical and mental challenges.
“They’ve made phenomenal progress. One with cerebral palsy couldn’t hold his boxing glove up and now he can punch like he’s meant to. Chrissy is phenomenal – she just gets them.”
Jack, who is autistic with intellectual disabilities, could not walk-up steps without holding onto something, but achieved 32 steps recently which she says was a huge success.
“Another was quite quiet and is now confident and cheeky. He’s able to express himself.”
Chrissy describes the class as “great fun”.
“A lot of things we take for granted are so hard for them. These guys have difficulties with coordination and balance, so it’s about learning to teach them and trying to push them out of their comfort zone.
“As long as they’re having fun, it’s fun. The whole hour is a comedy!”
A member of her box fit class, Bryan Calder, has become a volunteer each week, sparring in the ring with each participant. Chrissy says that has been important for a group who tend to live in a female-dominated world.
Sandra says the consistency of a weekly session has been important for the group because those with autism or special needs need to know what is happening next.
“This all started when a few carers and parents got talking and there was something missing.
We needed to fill the gap for them that was consistent.”
Each participant pays a small fee for the weekly session, and to set up another class, Sandra says they will need to find more funding to ensure the group’s future. She would like to see more adults with disabilities have the opportunity to experience the sense of community and fun within the class.
