The students tried their hand at AFL, tennis and netball across a three-and-a-half hour session at the Westbury Sports Complex, all under the watchful eye of Deaf Sports Australia sports development officer Irena Farinacci, AFL Tasmania’s Leigh Elder and Netball Tasmania’s Shane Fish.

Deaf and Hearing Impaired Service state co-ordinator Alarna Thomas said students and parents alike found the event an excellent chance to renew old friendships and create new ones.

“Quite often our students may... be the only person who wears hearing aids or cochlear implants at their school,” Miss Thomas said.

“The fact that we can have students together and they can see other students who have similar technology and similar modes of communication is really powerful in promoting that healthy wellbeing type of message.”

A few familiar faces also made appearances throughout the afternoon, with everyone from local footballers to Meander Valley councillors coming to help out.

“The deputy mayor Michael Kelly came and he joined in with the netball so it was really nice to have them attend and spend some time with the kids as well,” Miss Thomas said.

Event organiser Miss Farinacci, who is a former Australian basketball Deaflympian, said the program fostered a fruitful social environment as well as encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle.

“Sports is one way of bringing them all together, and seeing them change their outlook and attitudes when they meet other deaf friends is very rewarding,” Miss Farinacci said.

“It also gives them a positive sense of self-identity which includes being ok to be deaf.” 

Miss Farinacci said the event had also shone the light on some promising Tasmanian talent.

“There were several talented participants, particularly one of them who is keen to try out for the Australian Deaf Women's Basketball Team. 

“Even though we didn't a have basketball clinic, I was able to provide her with advice and support on attaining her goals, as well as the importance of staying active and eating well.”