Morgane Challe

Having practiced fencing to a high level - I was a member of the French team for 10 years - and worked as a sports instructor, I was naturally interested in this project, since if I'd had the opportunity, I would have liked to teach disabled children.

Morgane Challe

We all know that in junior and secondary schools, PE teachers have difficulty integrating disabled children in sports classes even though they know how happy these children would be to share this hour of sport with their classmates.
It seems almost like a punishment or yet another example of focusing on the child's difference!

I know very well the simple pleasures of practicing a sport and the very intense feelings generated by taking part in a competition. Disabled children can become athletes in their own right and, through sport, can combat the inactivity imposed on them by their condition and learn - or rediscover - the joys of physical exertion. Sport is also about tolerance, respect for your opponent and controlling your energy and emotions, even your anger. True, it takes longer for these young people because they need suitable structures, but like all children, they are entitled to discover certain disciplines.
If the school system has PE teachers with a sport and disability qualification, it can combat a certain form of discrimination, change people's attitude to handicap from a very young age and - why not? - even discover future champions!