SPECIAL Olympics is known for the wide range of sports that it provides for people with disabilities. Everything from golf to kayaking is available.
But the special Motor Activities Training Program (MATP) is less well known and is designed for individuals with profound disabilities.
Kayleigh Phillips, 10, will compete for the South and East Cheshire team in Glasgow. A wheelchair user with very restricted mobility, MATP suits her down to the ground.
Coach Kate Atkinson explained: 'For individuals with a limited range of move-ment, they are simply unable to take part in most sports. The MATP is specially designed for this problem.
'It is up to the coach and the athlete themselves to define a specific task. This task will be unique to the individual depending on their ability, and it is up to the individual to tell the judge what their task is.
'For instance, one of Kayleigh's tasks is to work with a rhythmic gymnastics hoop. She has decided to pick up the hoop in one hand, transfer it all the way over her body to the other hand, then lift the hoop over her head and present it to the judge.
'It sounds simple but for someone who has very limited use of her arms and hands. this can be really difficult. Only if Kayleigh manages this task will she get a medal. It means she is competing against herself.'
Academy co-director Jane Whetnall added: 'There is a place for everyone at the academy. Kayleigh is a wonderful girl, always laughing and joking and keen to be part of our team.'
