Empowering athletes: Lingnan University partners with HKSAPD for para sports development
The collaboration is spearheaded by HKSAPD, Lingnan’s School of Interdisciplinary Studies, the Bachelor of Social Sciences (Hons) in Sports Coaching and Event Management Programme, and the Office of Student Affairs.
In a groundbreaking initiative, Lingnan University has joined forces with the Sports Association for the Physically Disabled of Hong Kong, China (HKSAPD) to champion para sports athletes and the broader community with special needs. This collaboration is not just about training; it’s about fostering inclusivity, building skills, and transforming lives.
At the heart of this partnership is the Pan Sutong Sports Ground, where the Hong Kong para sports team engages in weekly training sessions. Since November 2024, athletes have been honing their skills in events such as wheelchair racing, discus throw, and shot put.
“We love it here at Lingnan. The facilities and equipment are perfect for our training, and the staff is incredibly friendly and supportive,” shares Chu Chak-sang, a member of the para sports team (Men’s 100m-T36 Asian Ranking 12th, 400m-T36 Asian Ranking 6th), adding, “The green environment around us makes a huge difference. It’s refreshing and motivating.”
For the athletes, finding suitable training venues has been a challenge. Many facilities don’t cater to their specific needs or are simply unavailable. “This collaboration has been a game-changer for us,” explains Yip Chung-wa, the Hong Kong, China team head coach since 2015. “It allows our athletes to prepare effectively for competitions while focusing on their personal growth and development.”
The impact of this partnership extends beyond the athletes. HKSAPD provides internship opportunities and workshops for Lingnan students, immersing them in real-world experiences related to athlete training, coaching, and event management.
“Thanks to this collaboration, our students have the chance to gain invaluable skills in sports management and networking,” says Dr Mok Kam-ming, senior lecturer of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and programme director of Bachelor of Social Sciences (Hons) in Sports Coaching and Event Management (SCEM). “Working directly with athletes and professionals enriches their education and prepares them for future careers in sports.”
Students echo this sentiment. “The workshops and training provided by HKSAPD have opened my eyes to coaching and sports management in ways I never anticipated,” shares Lo Man-chun, a SCEM Year 4 student. “Collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds has broadened my perspective. I now approach challenges with a more inclusive mindset.”
Currently, three elite athletes from HKSAPD are studying at Lingnan University through the Direct Entry Stream for Top Athletes (DESTA). These include boccia player Ng Chi-hang (Year 3, Business Administration), para table tennis athlete Yuen Wing-ki (Year 2, Animation and Digital Arts), and wheelchair fencing representative Chow Long-ho (Year 2, Cultural Studies). Their presence not only elevates the standard of sports at Lingnan but also serves as an inspiration for fellow students.
“The collaboration with HKSAPD reflects our commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, as well as the enhancement of physical wellness,” states Irene Ng Wai-ming, Director of Student Affairs at Lingnan. “I believe the interactions between HKSAPD and Lingnan athletes and students broaden their mindsets and enrich their learning experiences both here and beyond.”
As this partnership continues to flourish, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in sports. By nurturing talent and fostering an inclusive environment, Lingnan University and HKSAPD are not only elevating para sports but also paving the way for a more compassionate and understanding society.
