LaValla Athletes Depart for Dubai to Represent Cambodia at Asian Para-Youth Games

Sixteen young Cambodians from the Marists’ LaValla Programme for Inclusive Education gathered this week for a heartfelt farewell as they set off for the airport - each proudly dressed in new tracksuits in the colours of the Cambodian flag. Their destination: the Asian Para-Youth Games in Dubai, UAE, taking place from 10 to 13 December, where they will represent their country on one of the region’s most significant sporting stages.

The students travelling come from LaValla’s flagship Inclusive Education programme, which welcomes young people with disabilities from across Cambodia. As the country’s leading centre for disability-inclusive schooling, LaValla has a strong presence in the national team.

Most of the athletes are residents of the LaValla Village - for older students, while four students from LaValla School - now old enough to compete - are joining the delegation for the first time.

The team itself is a dynamic mix of emerging talent - five swimmers and eleven athletes, including sprinters, a long jumper, a male racing wheelchair competitor, and a female shot putter. Their selection is an extraordinary achievement and reflects years of hard work, discipline, and unwavering determination.

Coaches from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport have been visiting LaValla daily in the lead-up to the Games, eager to support the promising group of athletes. Their commitment is also a testament to the dedication of the staff at LaValla Primary School and the LaValla Village, where many of the students reside while attending government high schools.

With Cambodia set to host the Southeast Asia Para-Games in 2027, the national government has turned a keen eye to LaValla, recognising it as a hub of potential and a vital partner in developing the nation’s future Paralympians.

As the group headed off, excitement and pride filled the LaValla campus. Staff, students, and community members alike applauded the athletes’ achievements and sent them on their way with heartfelt encouragement.

The entire LaValla community and Star of the Sea Province stand proudly behind them and wishes them every success in Dubai.

-Contributed by Br Brian Kinsella, Chair, Marist Solidarity Cambodia