Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA)” organizes the 15th Annual Emirates Bocce Championship

Emirates Down Syndrome Association organized the 15th edition of the Emirates Bocce Championship for people with Down Syndrome 2024, under the patronage of Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Son of the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Fujairah, with the participation of 15 teams from across the country.
Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of EDSA, expressed her deep gratitude and appreciation to Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi for his patronage of the Championship. She praised the leadership’s commitment to supporting people of determination and their efforts to include them into all aspects of public life, culture, and sports, ensuring they are treated as equals alongside their peers.

Dr. Jaroor also commended the ongoing support of the association’s key partners, including the General Authority of Sports, Dubai Municipality, and the UAE Special Olympics. She expressed her appreciation for their prominent role in supporting sports activities within the association and enhancing their leadership in corporate social responsibility, which reflects the local community’s commitment to promoting sports for people of determination.

This championship holds a special significance as it is one of the sports most beloved by our children with Down syndrome. It offers a valuable opportunity to enhance the spirit of competition and facilitate the exchange of experiences between players and coaches. This year, it is being held at the Zayed Sports Complex in Fujairah

In a statement, Mrs. Nawal Al Nasser, Vice Chairperson of EDSA, said, “This championship, which sees wide participation from individuals with Down syndrome, plays a key role in showcasing their athletic abilities and raising awareness of their potential.. It highlights their concentration skills and the use of precise game strategies, requiring high focus and motor skills.”
Al Nasser added, “For the fifteenth consecutive year, this championship has firmly established its reputation and popularity, consistently gaining momentum, attracting more participants, and featuring thrilling, intense competitions at both the team and individual levels. With each edition, the players deliver exceptional performances, while the audience and supporters create an atmosphere filled with joy and enthusiasm.”

The championship featured the participation of 97 male and female athletes across three age groups: 12-15, 15-21, and 22 and above. Athletes represented a wide range of centers and clubs from across the country. The event was supervised by coach Mahmoud Atwan, assisted by a specialized team of referees and technicians.