Paddling Beyond Boundaries: SUSS Canoeing Team’s Engagement Initiative with Special Olympics

For the SUSS Canoeing Competition Group, their first Sports for Good (SFG) programme with Special Olympics Singapore was more than an introduction to kayaking. It was an opportunity for 11 SUSS Canoeing members to engage with 10 athletes, caregivers and staff through sport, while learning how to create a more inclusive sporting experience for participants of different abilities.

Held at Kallang Water Sports Centre, the session introduced participants to kayaking and water safety through a combination of land-based practice, guided paddling and a mini tour around Kallang Basin.

Participants and volunteers enjoying a lively session out on the water together

Learning Through Sport

The session was designed to help participants develop basic kayaking skills while building confidence on the water. Participants were introduced to paddling techniques and safety practices before heading out for guided paddling.

Double sit-on-top kayaks were used to pair athletes with caregivers or staff members throughout the session, providing additional support and confidence on the water. SUSS Canoeing members also supported the session by reinforcing safety checks and encouraging participants as they learnt to manoeuvre the kayaks.

For many participants, the session provided an opportunity to experience kayaking or return to the sport after a long break. Participant feedback highlighted the patience and encouragement of the SUSS Canoeing members, with one participant sharing that the “instructors are very encouraging and willing to share more about their canoe experience.”

A scenic view of the canoeing group paddling side by side along the reservoir.

Learning to Adapt

As the team’s first SFG programme of this scale, the session also provided valuable learning for the student organisers.

During the programme, a wheelchair-using athlete faced difficulties accessing the equipment area. The team responded by stepping in to assist the participant and ensuring that he could access the activities.

While the team was able to address the situation on the day, the experience highlighted the importance of considering accessibility in greater detail during the planning stage.

For Tan Boon Yang, Year 3, Bachelor of Sports and Physical Education, the experience demonstrated the team’s ability to adapt to the needs of participants.

“As it’s the first time that the canoeing team has planned for a Sports for Good programme, there were several challenges along the way. As a testament to the team’s ability, the team was quick to adapt to these challenges, such as aiding athletes with mobility disabilities. With the successful completion of the Sports for Good programme by the canoeing team, we strive to do better for our next programme and better engage participants of all abilities.”

The experience also reinforced the importance of designing activities around the needs of participants. The team used visual demonstrations and simplified instructions during the session, while mixed groups of athletes, caregivers and SUSS members helped participants build rapport and interact comfortably with one another.

Creating Meaningful Connections

Beyond learning a new sport, the programme provided opportunities for participants and SUSS students to interact and learn from one another.

Participants shared their enjoyment of learning how to manoeuvre the kayaks, gaining new sporting experiences and spending time with their friends. One participant, Daiyar, recalled a lighthearted moment of flipping a boat together with a friend, sharing, “I'm happy that me and my friend swimming together because we flip the boat.”

The positive feedback extended beyond the activities themselves, with participants highlighting the encouragement and helpfulness of the SUSS students. Several participants also expressed a desire to return for another session.

For Elisha Daniel Lee, Year 2, Bachelor of Social Work, the experience offered a different perspective on inclusion and ability.

“This year's Sports for Good was especially empowering, holding it just one week after National Day. It gave us the chance to do our part to be an inclusive society. Engaging the athletes from Special Olympics opened my eyes to the tenacity and perseverance of these athletes, and reaffirmed my belief that everyone innately has capability, and we should not limit anyone based on what we see or observe, but rather do our part to empower and build up.”

Group photo of the SUSS Canoeing Team, volunteers, and Special Olympics athletes celebrating a successful day out

Looking Ahead

The inaugural programme gave the SUSS Canoeing team an opportunity not only to engage the community through sport, but also to reflect on how they can make future SFG programmes more inclusive and effective.

Moving forward, the team hopes to strengthen its accessibility planning by conducting venue recce and route checks ahead of future programmes, better understand participants’ needs before each session, and work more closely with community partners to prepare students for inclusive engagements.

The positive connections formed with Special Olympics Singapore have laid a strong foundation for future community outreach. Through continued reflection and improvement, the SUSS Canoeing team looks forward to creating more meaningful sporting experiences where participants of all abilities can learn, connect and enjoy sport together.