Hi, I’m Cathy, and I have the absolute privilege of working for Parafed Waikato as the Sport Development Officer. One of the most exciting parts of my job is managing our incredible Halberg Games Waikato team! Back when I started in 2018, we had a team of just 15 athletes. Fast forward to today, and we’ve more than doubled in size with an incredible 31 athletes ready to take on this year’s Games. Some of our athletes have been part of this amazing event since it first started 10 years ago and keep coming back for more. That just goes to show how unforgettable the Halberg Games experience truly is. Once you go, you’re hooked!
Every year, the Halberg Games is the highlight of our Parafed Waikato calendar. It’s not just about competition, it’s about connection, confidence, and pure moments of joy. We work closely with the Halberg Foundation to ensure our athletes and their families are well-prepared, comfortable, and ready to make the most of this incredible experience. Leading up to the Games, we run training sessions in swimming and athletics step onto the field (or into the pool!) with confidence, knowing they are fully supported.
What makes the Halberg Games so special? Unlike mainstream school sports, where athletes with disabilities often face challenges, the Halberg Games is a place of total inclusion. There’s no judgement, only encouragement. Every athlete is celebrated, and disability sport is championed with no limits. The atmosphere is electric the camaraderie is unmatched, and the friendships formed over these three days last a lifetime.
The Halberg Games offer a unique blend of sports opportunity whereby athletes can either try out new sports in the “Have a Go” sessions or be competitive in their chosen sport. many of our Waikato athletes have discovered their passion for their sport at the Halberg Games, and for some, it has been the very first step on their journey to representing New Zealand at the Paralympics. What starts as a fun weekend often turns into a lifelong dream!
None of this would be possible without the generosity of our funders who help us financially support our athletes and their families each year. We’re also incredibly grateful to The Brand Makes and Vulcan for sponsoring our team uniforms and ensuring out athletes proudly represent Waikato in style!
