In this community, one of the great examples of the what accessibility can achieve is the skill and success of Paralympic athlete Patrick Anderson, who has become a hero here, in his hometown.
Anderson has now become the inspiration for an essay contest between all elementary schools in Centre Wellington.
Organized between the Optimist Club of Centre Wellington-Fergus and the group of residents behind the Power of Play initiative to build an accessible playground at the Stait Park location, the contest is a 250 word essay to honour Anderson’s success.
Students from Grades 4 to 8 are asked to give a brief bio of Anderson and explain why he is an inspiration to the community. The winner of the contest will be awarded $150 from the Optimist club, and have their essay become part of the tribute to Anderson set to be placed in the new accessible playground.
The contest runs from April 1 to June 1.
Anderson, widely regarded as one of the best wheelchair basketball players of all time, is one of three finalists for Male Athlete with a Disability of the Year. He helped Canada capture gold in wheelchair basketball at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England. In eight games he totalled a tournament-leading 200 points (25 per game), 88 rebounds and 64 assists.
The essay title is “Patrick Anderson – Inspiring a Community.” Entries can be sent to Andy Speers at 470 Tower St. N, Fergus, N1M 2N9.
