Once the only way dwarfs had any involvement in sport was as a mascot, or a kit/water monitor, especially in school or university.
Due to their height and limitations, not being able to compete with those at average level, participation was obviously not equal.
This would have an impact on a person, exclusion, low self-esteem and lack of achievements, with this carrying off the field and court into everyday life too.
Now many associations govern dwarf sport around the world. There are also international competitions for them to participate in, with one being The World Dwarf Games.
Greek Australian Leo Sideras is one athlete who will represent Australia at this year’s World Dwarf Games in Germany.
This will be the eighth games, being held every four years since 1993, with this year’s event originally meant to take place in 2021.
Sideras is the treasurer of Malvern City Football Club, as well as a volunteer and committee member, and will participate in the soccer, relay and weightlifting events.
The club wished him luck in his athletic journey to Europe.
“Goodluck Leo we are all proud of you and wish you all the best!!,” Malvern City Football Club said on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/Malvernfc/posts/722676669869917?ref=embed_post
South Melbourne FC also took to Facebook to rally behind Leo.
“Not just a much-loved member of the football community and a key in our wonderful relationship with Malvern, but Leo is also a lifelong South fan and member. We’re right behind you too, Leo!”
The World Dwarf Games will run from July 28 to August 5 at the German Sports University in the city of Cologne.
It is the largest international sporting event held exclusively for athletes with dwarfism.
Athletes with dwarfism and of all ages and ability level from across the globe are encouraged to participate in sports such as basketball, soccer, track and field, volleyball, swimming, table tennis, badminton, floor hockey, boccia, archery, curling, powerlifting and marksmanship.
The competition has grown immensely over the last 20 years, going from just six participating countries and 83 athletes in 1997, half of what the inaugural had in 93′, to 17 nations and 450 participants in 2017.
Sideras will be one of 40 Australians in the games, the largest Australian team to-date, with their first team in 2009 having 15 athletes.
“We know their hard work, determination, and dedication will pay off; it’s now their time to compete on the biggest stage for short-statured athletes,” said the Australian World Dwarf Games Team.
