Michael Drives Inclusion in Burnside with Sports4All

For Michael Zannis, sport has always been more than just a game. Losing his sight at the age of six, he discovered early on the power of sport to build confidence, community and opportunity. Now, as Burnside’s Sports4All Inclusion Coach, Michael is helping ensure that same opportunity is open to everyone in the Burnside community.

Sports4All is a multi-award-winning, nationally recognised program dedicated to building more inclusive grassroots sport across Australia. Michael brings a wealth of experience, passion and lived expertise to the role, making him an ideal advocate for local clubs and schools.

A long-time member of the Australian Blind Cricket Team, Michael is the most capped Australian Blind Cricketer with 98 appearances and has represented South Australia more than 160 times. Off the pitch, his contribution to sport is just as impressive, volunteering on boards and committees including Blind Sports SA, Blind Cricket and the South Australian Cricket Association.

With more than 25 years in the disability sector, Michael has always worked towards making sport more accessible for all. He has previously founded a charity to help fund athletes with disability to travel to national and international events.

‘I’m very passionate about helping those with a disability be involved in sport and educating local sporting clubs and schools to feel more comfortable including people with disability in their community,’ Michael said.

Through Sports4All, Michael works directly with clubs and schools across Burnside, sitting down with committees, coaches and staff to identify gaps and create action plans for inclusion.

‘Sometimes it is as simple as knowing that people with a disability are people first. Treating everyone as a person is the most important thing. The most basic step is, if you are unsure, ask them how you can assist.’

For local families, this means more opportunities for children and adults with disability to get involved in sport - whether as players, supporters or volunteers. The program looks at everything from facilities and coaching to building the confidence of clubs themselves, ensuring environments where everyone feels welcome.

Michael hopes Burnside can set the standard for inclusive sport. ‘We already have a few local clubs and schools getting involved and leading the way, and my hope is that all organisations will work together to provide pathways for people with disability to participate. Whether that’s on the court, in the clubrooms, as members, or even on committees.’

To learn more about Sports4All or to get involved, contact Michael at the City of Burnside.

Photo credit: Blind Cricket South Australia and Blind Cricket Australia