Beneficiaries

Sports fan on the route to victory

New sports equipment, provided by the Sunshine Fund has helped determined Jon Joe Clennel to the top of his game

Three years ago the 15-year-old from Northumberland, who suffers from cerebral palsy, took up a sport called Boccia.

Focusing on skill and accuracy rather than strength, the boules-like game has been designed specially for disabled people and can be played from a seating position. Despite the limitations in Jon Joe ’s movements the teenager has shown a real talent for the sport.

A grant to purchase his own Boccia equipment has enabled Jon Joe to practice the sport at home as well as at school. He has since regained his mantle as regional Boccia champion for a second successive year and recently represented the north east in Sheffield at the 2008 regional championships.

Jon Joe’s mum, Amanda, is delighted with the new equipment. She said: “Jon absolutely loves sport. From the moment he could sit up and watch it on television he’s been absolutely fascinated with it.

“Now he can actually get involved and take part, which is wonderful.

“For him to be regional champion two years running is fantastic, I’m so proud of him.”

Jon Joe’s talent for the sport means he has already been touted as a potential candidate to represent the country.
Sunshine Fund manager Jo Harris said: “We always love hearing how much children get out of the donations we make and it’s great seeing Jon Joe enjoying himself so much.

“That he’s developed such a special talent for the sport shows how important our donations can be. With out the balls and ramps Jon Joe’s skill might have remained untapped.”


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