The Ball
This project's parent organization is Spirit of Football CIC
It operates in United Kingdom
It uses Football (Soccer)
Entered the Sport For Social Inclusion Award
More about The Ball
In many African countries, special-needs children are often ostracised; kept inside because their parents are ashamed of them. The Ball 2010 is changing this. A symbol of unity, The Ball is currently making a 10,000-mile pilgrimage from London’s Battersea Park, location of the first game of modern-rules football, to the World Cup in Johannesburg. Through The Ball's 25 school visits, and countless events with partner organisation Special Olympics Africa (SOA), The Ball promotes support and understanding of intellectually disabled athletes. The Ball's message of acceptance is getting louder and clearer it makes its way to South Africa. Children at such events are excited about The Ball.
As word spreads, media are getting excited as well. Whether through television, radio or the travel blog theball.tv, The Ball uses its time in the spotlight to bring this social issue into view, making a lasting impression on parents, teachers and politicians. The Ball's mission has gained the respect of African dignitaries such as the President of Mali and football stars such as Salif Keita. As the World Cup nears, The Ball is committed to bringing the issue of social inclusion to the attention of national leaders across a football-mad continent.