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G.J. Gardner Homes Tauihi Presents Inclusion Round 2024

INCLUSIVE ROUND 2024: TAUIHI EMBRACING DIVERSITY IN BASKETBALL

The G.J. Gardner Home Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa competition is thrilled to unveil the first annual Tauihi Inclusive Round, a collaborative initiative in partnership with Special Olympics groups from across NZ and organisations nationwide. This special event aims to shine a spotlight on the inclusive nature of basketball, emphasising that the game is open to players of all ages, sizes, and abilities. It also presents an opportunity to honour the achievements of athletes and their contributions to their respective fields.

Taking place across Rounds 3 & 4 this October, Inclusive Round 2024 will see a collaboration between Tauihi Basketball and groups across the nation as we celebrate the 1st Annual initiative in Tauihi, building off of an annual event in the Sal's NBL that has proven popular with fans and athletes.

General Manager of Leagues, Maree Taylor says "We are thrilled to bring the Inclusive Round initiative to Tauihi, honouring the achievements of our Special Olympics athletes and sharing the spotlight so athletes of all skill levels can get the recognition they've earned. This event highlights that basketball belongs to all New Zealanders. We warmly welcome fans and players to unite with us in commemorating diversity, nurturing solidarity, and advocating inclusiveness within our basketball community and beyond."

During this engaging event, teams from the G.J. Gardner Homes Tauihi will join forces with athletes with disabilities from across the country, coming together in various ways to demonstrate the true spirit of inclusivity. From October 18^th to 27^th across rounds 3 and 4, fans and players alike can anticipate a series of activities that look to inspire and involve fans and players across the country.

• In-depth Training Sessions: Tauihi teams have and will work closely with inclusive teams during dedicated training sessions before the round, sharing invaluable basketball knowledge and fostering a supportive environment.
• The highlighting of long term partnerships, such as the long term partnership that the Mainland Pouākai  have with Youthtown DBC & Special Olympics Canterbury 
• Unified Sport: Special Olympics Unified Sports joins people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team, so make sure you stay in your seats to watch these captivating half time showcases of 5 on 5 half-time games, giving disabled athletes the chance to show their skills inf front of appreciative crowds 

G.J. Gardner Homes Tauihi is committed to promoting inclusivity within the basketball community and beyond. Inclusive Round 2024 stands as a testament to our shared belief that basketball transcends barriers, empowering individuals to showcase their talents and achieve greatness regardless of their circumstances.

Join us in celebrating diversity, camaraderie, and the power of basketball during Tauihi Inclusive Round 2024. Together, we can inspire and unite as we cheer for a more inclusive future.