(Cochrane, AB) - Earlier today, Cochrane celebrated the grand opening of the Jumpstart Inclusive Multi Sport Court. The accessible play space was created in partnership with Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart).
The new accessible play space is designed to remove physical and social barriers to play, ensuring children of all abilities can enjoy shared spaces. The Jumpstart Inclusive Multi Sport Court will include barrier-free access and enhanced visibility, as well as provide room for accessible and standard sports such as basketball, sitting volleyball, pickleball and wheelchair tennis. Located near SLS Centre, the Inclusive Multi Sport Court is now open on a drop-in basis, Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.- 9 p.m. and Sundays and statutory holidays 9 a.m.- 9 p.m.
“This court reflects our commitment to working with valued partners like Jumpstart,” says Mayor Jeff Genung, Town of Cochrane. “We’re creating spaces that not only support our growing and diverse population but bring people together, physically and socially, for stronger relationships in our community.”
“At Jumpstart, we are committed to supporting community partners to develop safe and inclusive play spaces for kids of all abilities,” said Stuart McReynolds, AVP, Programs & Advocacy, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “Together with the Town of Cochrane, we are proud to have played a part in bringing this Inclusive Multi Sport Court to life and continue to build strong community ties through the power of sport and play.”
The celebration included a Jumpstart Games to recognize Jumpstart’s 20th anniversary and celebrate Cochrane’s local efforts to raise funds during Jumpstart Month in June 2024. Kids from local summer programs participated in a day of play involving physical activity, team building and friendship.
“This court is the result of the community’s support of the Jumpstart Charity through donations at Canadian Tire,” continued Genung. “Cochrane continues to show its generosity and commitment to providing accessible and inclusive recreation.”
For more information, visit the Jumpstart Inclusive Multi Sport Court project page.