The Para Start Program

The Para START Program is a sports training program for people eligible to participate in the Paralympic Games.

START stands for Sports Training And Research Team.

Developed by Associate Professor Sean TweedyDr Emma BeckmanDr Mark ConnickDr Leanne Johnston and a team of PhD candidates from the UQ School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, the team is exploring the therapeutic benefit of sports training for people with high support needs.

Meet the Para START team

The first Para START squad consists of four young people with moderate-to-severe cerebral palsy: Jamie, Tash, Kunal and Nate. They’re taking on the challenge of trying to make the Australian swimming team for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

Read about their inspiring story.

Donate now

With high support needs athletes come high support costs. Your donation can assist these hard-working and dedicated athletes get the best training possible. If you would like to support the Para START Program, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. Your donation will assist young people with cerebral palsy get the best training possible, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for a Paralympic team.