Intro
A Win Well 2032+ report found people with disability face significant barriers to entry and progression through high performance pathways.
Support through the WA Government and Paralympics Australia has helped WAIS launch its Para Unit, to focus on early engagement, talent identification and clearer alignment with sports.
“It’s not just about identifying talent,” WAIS Para Unit Lead and Regional Engagement Brad Scott said.
“We support athletes through classification, facilitate access to coaching and build a network of support around them.
“Our goal is to ensure para-athletes in WA have a clearer, more connected pathway and an equitable opportunity to reach their potential.”
Part of the new unit has also seen WAIS start its FastTrack program, a multi-week initiative where participants can try different sports in an inclusive environment and explore which Paralympic pathway may suit them.
These athletes now train alongside WAIS scholarship holders, fostering inclusion and excellence.
Para-athlete development differs from mainstream pathways. Many athletes enter later in life and require coordinated support to ensure appropriate classification before committing to training.
WAIS focuses on building foundations of strength, movement quality, consistency and routine, while supporting sport-specific training with coaches and clubs.
“A major strength of our approach is our people,” Mr Scott said.
“With 4 Paralympians on staff, athletes receive guidance from individuals who truly understand the journey.
“Without participation, there are no pathways, and without pathways there are no future Paralympians.”
WAIS and the WA Government are united in their goal for strong WA representation at the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games, which can be achieved by sports, clubs and communities working together.
By strengthening links with schools, community sport and allied health, WAIS is creating clearer entry points into para sport and building a more informed, inclusive sporting culture across WA.