By Mark Rigby

ABC Gold Coast

Topic: Boccia

Friday, June 19, 2026, at 7:31 am

Florence Nickel wants to play boccia in the Paralympics.

Florence has trouble in school sports, but boccia is different.

Florence has a brain injury that affects her movement and speech.

This year, Florence started playing boccia and likes it.

Florence says boccia makes her very happy.

In boccia, players throw balls near a target ball.

Boccia is a Paralympic sport that is growing fast.

Boccia looks easy but is actually very hard.

A boccia player says the game is technical and strategic.

Boccia players use heavy balls and try to get them near the target.

Players can use different tactics to win.

There are many ways to play boccia.

'Blossoming' through boccia

Australia did well in boccia at the last Paralympics.

Boccia Australia wants to find new players in schools.

The sport is easy to watch but hard to play.

A teacher says boccia helps students with disabilities.

Students who play boccia become more confident.

Florence's teachers support her boccia dreams.

The school principal likes boccia for students with disabilities.

The principal thinks boccia is a great sport for the school.

'Cheeky, enthusiastic, and excited'

Florence's mom sees a change in her since she started boccia.

Florence is very positive and happy when she plays boccia.

Playing boccia is a big deal for Florence.

Florence's teachers see a change in her too.

Florence is more confident and excited now.

Florence talks about her boccia dreams all the time.

Florence practices boccia and wants to get better.

Florence likes playing boccia with her friends and family.

Friday, June 19, 2026, at 7:31 am

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