Parents of children living with disabilities often face challenges finding suitable recreational activities that support their child’s needs. For eleven-year-old Kio Andres, who has been receiving support from the Rehabilitation Centre for Children (RCC) since 2018 following his cerebral palsy diagnosis, discovering a passion for the sport of boccia has brought joy, connection and a sense of belonging to both him and his family.
“This is his second tournament. The first time he joined, he liked it right away,” his father Michael Andres explains. “Games like these are very simple to understand. Once he sees the white ball, he knows it’s time to play.”
Kio, who lives with varying physical and developmental challenges, was introduced to boccia through RCC after his mother, Jennifer Andres, diligently researched programs and services that support children living with disabilities.
“Families can register their child for boccia through our LIFE Program e-newsletter,” Shared Hailey Perchotte, Recreation Therapist and Co-Coordinator of the LIFE Program at RCC. “We also introduce boccia at our week of active camp during the summer.”
Designed for athletes living with disabilities, the sport offers a level playing field and builds both strategy and skill in an environment where players can compete at their own pace.
“One thing that’s really smart about this game is how it supports kids with different ability levels,” shares Micheal, “Once he throws the ball, he knows it’s the other team’s turn, so he can take a break and regroup. There’s strategy, but it’s manageable. For a brain that’s still developing like his, he can grasp the whole game.”
His dad offers that Boccia has offered Kio something other sports didn’t quite provide. “He tried hockey before. He understood the goal was to get the puck into the net, but with hockey there’s so many passing, distractions – it’s too fast for him. In boccia, he can pause, focus on the ball, make his move and enjoy it.”
Beyond the game, boccia has become a source of pride for the whole family. “I’m really proud. Given his limitations, this is one sport where he can truly develop his skills to a competitive level.”
Even Kio’s five-year-old sister has become one of his biggest fans and competitors.
“During the first tournament, our whole family came. His sister is always watching Kio and started mimicking him. Now, they play together at home. They’re on opposing teams, but it’s all in good fun,” commented Michael.
The impact goes far beyond family bonding. Boccia has also helped Kio build meaningful friendships. “He has a lot of friends here, and they really understand each other. After each round, the players pick up their balls and would you believe, fellow players help Kio because they see his right leg is weak.”
Moments like that speak volumes. “It fosters camaraderie and he gains lots of friends when exposed to events like these.”
For Kio, boccia isn’t just a game, it’s a gateway to confidence, community and connection. And for his family, it’s a front-row seat to something truly special: watching him thrive.
For more information on adapted and inclusive programming at RCC, visit the LIFE Program webpage.