By Natalie Gallenti
FOR Jean Bolger there is nothing better than bringing a smile to someone’s face.
That’s why the St Albans resident spends every Saturday morning enjoying tenpin bowling with a group of people with a disability.
When her daughter, Trish, was diagnosed with Down Syndrome more than 30 years ago, Ms Bolger was determined to offer her the best childhood she could and searched for an activity that could help develop her social skills.
A keen bowler herself, the young mother decided she would establish a league specifically designed for people with a disability and, with the help of Brimbank Council, she did.
Decades later it is going stronger than ever with more than 30 members in the group which meets every Saturday morning at the bowling centre at Watergardens in Taylors Lakes.
“It really helps my daughter socialise with people every week, in a different kind of environment,” Ms Bolger said.
“It gives Trish something to do outside of her home.”
But it’s not just all laughs, Ms Bolger said the group is performance driven and love nothing better than receiving their trophies at the end of the year.
“It’s very important to the players. They love to be involved in competition and take it very seriously.”
Most of the players have an intellectual disability or are wheelchair bound, but with the aid of ramps and specially designed bowling balls, they are able to enjoy the popular sport.
“They really look forward to it, and when they miss a couple of weeks they are champing at the bit to get back into it.
“Tenpin bowling is something they can all do; it’s a great game for everyone.”
The group used to play at the Sunshine AMF bowling centre but recently relocated to the new facilities, however this hasn’t stopped players from continuing to play.
“People come out from as far as Werribee, Essendon and we even have one man that comes from Geelong on the train.
“They always have a smile on their face and it’s very rewarding to see how happy they are.”
The dedicated mother wants no accolades and said she does it because of the joy she gets from helping others.
Anyone over 15 years old with a disability and interested in joining the group should contact Jean on 0407 835 130.
Star’s Pride in Brimbank series recognises people or groups that work tirelessly within the community to make it a better place.
If you know someone that fits the bill, contact Star on 9933 4815 or alternatively email belinda.nolan@starnewsgroup.com.au
