The inaugural European Boccia Integrative Championship was held successfully in Piastow near Warsaw between December 9 and 11.

The first edition of the championship was organized by the University Sports Association of Poland (AZS), under the patronage of the European University Sports Association (EUSA), commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3.



Nearly one hundred participants took part in the event, composing sixteen teams from five countries competed - Poland, Greece, Italy, Slovakia and Ukraine. Apart of the teams, individual competitions were divided into five categories (Open, BC1, BC2, BC4, BC5). The event was held in competitive, yet friendly and enjoyable manner.



Boccia is a discipline for everyone, but it has gained the greatest popularity among people with disabilities, especially those affected by cerebral palsy and wheelchair users). It engages both body and mind, acting therapeutically. It is a great way to integrate physically disabled people with able-bodied people - in sports clubs, non-governmental organizations, schools, rehabilitation centers and even at home.



Boccia is a discipline with many aspects - it is a sport with elements of competition, a therapeutic tool, and can be used as means of integration.

More information: www.azs.pl.