‘Joy and laughter’: the Leicester rugby team for children with Down’s syndrome | Down’s syndrome
A rugby team set up for young people with Down’s syndrome has been described as a “lifeline” by parents who say there is a chronic lack of opportunities for their children. Leicester Tigers launched the team in October last year and now have more than 40 families signed up to their fortnightly training sessions. Kelly Towl, whose eight-year-old, Lucie-Ann, attends the sessions said the team had had a positive impact on her daughter. “There aren’t many sports aimed solely at children with Down’s syndrome, so for that to actually happen is positive,” she said. “Your children are not judged, we’re not judged … we’re all in the same boat.” Towl, a mother of three whose family are fans of Leicester Tigers and regularly attend matches, said she was very excited by the opportunity for her daughter to participate in the sport. “I think children with Down’s syndrome, they’re stereotyped … so this really is a lifeline, and other sports and other teams should really take note,” she said. “You’ve only got to see the smile …
