Omar Arsilan didn’t know what to expect when he went along to his first volunteering session at the Thames Valley Special Olympics basketball training.
“I just thought, yep, I would give it a go when the opportunity arose. I know nothing about basketball so it was a challenge for me,” the 17-year-old Hauraki Plains College student told The Profile.
He found out about the volunteering opportunity when he picked up some printing at the school’s hub and was “ambushed” by Mrs Fitzpatrick, who received an email asking if she knew anyone who could help with the training.
The year-13 student said he was convinced he could do it, and the rest was history.
Training coach Christina Stilwell said for more than 10 weeks Omar helped with drill set ups, made sure the training balls were pumped up and subbed in for even numbers in drills and games.
“The team loves his quiet and friendly manner and are always happy to see him. With Omar, the trainings run smoothly and we thoroughly enjoy seeing him each week.”
Omar said the team loved when he joined in with the games because “I don’t know what I am doing”, but after 10 weeks he believed he’d gotten better.
“I really enjoy it and it’s something I probably never would have done without the encouragement from Mrs Stilwell and Mrs Fitzpatrick.”
He said he learned “a lot about basketball” and how to play, including the rules, but he also learned about teamwork and communication.
The next thing he wanted to learn was how to get the ball through the hoop, he said.
One of the challenges he faced was being able to understand the different disabilities, he said, which varied from speech to movement, along with communication.
“I have never worked with people with a variety of limited abilities and I have found I really enjoy it.”
He said empathy and “a good attitude towards everyone” were important qualities for people who wanted to do similar volunteer work.
The thing that surprised Omar the most about his volunteering experience was how inclusive everyone was and how much happiness it brought to the group, he said.
“I find it really rewarding.”
Their commitment and motivation to persevere with all challenges was something that inspired Omar.
His time with the group “definitely highlights” how inclusive the community was with “a real sense of belonging”, he said.
“I have really enjoyed being involved with the team and learning a new sport. I am more confident and definitely more patient especially when it comes to dealing with people.”
By DAVIDDA HIKATANGATA
