The girls enjoying the bowling
Down Syndrome Dublin celebrated two years of their beloved bowling nights with a “medal night” at Tallaght’s Leisureplex last Tuesday.
The bowling group grew through the years and counts now 26 children and teenagers aged from 10 to 18. Last Tuesday night, they all got a medal to wear with pride, while playing, singing and dancing together.
“What we really want to highlight and celebrate are the special, long-lasting friendships that were created thanks to these nights,” said organiser Sandra O’Reilly.
Together with other local parents, in August 2022 Sandra set up the bowling nights which are supported by Down Syndrome Dublin.
They don’t involve the organisation’s volunteers, as children come in accompanied by their parents.
“We believe that nobody with Down syndrome should be sitting at home on their own. They should live their life and enjoy time with friends,” said Sandra.
Jamie in action
Bowling nights started as a replacement for hip-hop nights, at a time when Covid regulations were still in place.
Now, hip-hop classes are back, but these children grew fond of bowling and look forward to it every week.
Sandra asked some of them to tell The Echo what they like the most about bowling nights.
“I love that it’s on a Tuesday,” said one. “I love when we hug or high five after a strike!” said another participant.
Liam, Cathal, Jackson and Andre
“My favourite thing is that we bring in cakes when it’s somebody’s birthday.”
Parents also benefit from it, added Sandra, “as they can chat between each other about issues they might be worried about, in relation to their children. They know that they will be understood and not judged.”
Bowling nights take place every Tuesday at 7.00 pm at Tallaght’s Leisureplex. “We’d like to thank Leisureplex for giving us their space and Down Syndrome Dublin for their support,” said Sandra.
For more information, or to join the bowling nights with your kids, contact Hayleigh@downsyndromedublin.ie.
