Young Basketballer Ready for National Contest

09 April 2018

The City of Stirling is proud to support local young basketballer Leroy Sassine (14) in his bid for gold at the 2018 Special Olympics Australia National Games, being held in Adelaide next week.

The dedicated teenager, who has autism, and his proud parents have been working hard to fundraise since they found out Leroy had been selected to take part in the games.

City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin said that after being told about Leroy’s fantastic achievement by his parents, the City was able to support his sporting endeavours with a $200 donation.

“This will go towards the cost of flights and accommodation to help get Leroy to the games to compete,” he said.

“Getting to this point represents a lot of training and dedication so we are proud to be able to give Leroy a helping hand and we wish him all the best.”

Taking part in a national competition is one of a series of firsts for the teenager. Not only is it his first time competing, it is his first time venturing out of WA and his first time on a plane.

“It’s exciting,” Leroy said. 

“I’ve been playing basketball for about five years and I just like it.”

Leroy’s Dad Elie said the family was appreciative of the City’s support and events such as the Special Olympics.

“He’s aiming for gold, but he’s also aiming to have fun and enjoy the whole experience,” Mr Sassine said.

“Leroy’s love of basketball is already rubbing off on his brother Ruben too.”

The Special Olympics Australia National Games is held every four years and gives hundreds of athletes with an intellectual disability from across Australia the opportunity to showcase their sporting skills and sportsmanship. The first national contest dates back to 1986 and Perth last hosted the games in 1994.

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