Friendly, cheerful, affectionate, and full of energy. Very attentive to those around her and equally shy when strangers observe her. Stubborn and touchy at times. Other adjectives and nuances could be used to describe Benedetta: nine years old, engaged in artistic gymnastics in Reggio Emilia for two years where is active Fondazione Milan’s Sport for All programme realised together with All Inclusive Sport. For the entire first year, Khady guided her in every exercise and training step by step: a challenging start, but one that revealed great promise. Together with Khady, Benedetta discovered motivation, autonomy, and motor skills she didn’t know she possessed. The rest has blossomed naturally because Benedetta is an irresistible magnet for smiles and laughter, and her companions naturally gravitate toward her and support her.

“At times, she needs an extra hug to be spurred on, to feel that she is being sought out when she is on the sidelines. When this happens, her teammates are always ready to welcome her, and she reciprocates with the same welcome. Added to our work, this has helped her make huge strides in communication and discipline”, says coach Caterina.

Competitions and crowded arenas, where Benedetta feels uncomfortable, remain to be overcome. But the most significant goal of the program and her family had set for themselves has already been largely achieved: “Playing sport in her village gym with peers she meets at school. This has allowed Benny to get along better with others,” her mother concludes. “Benedetta loves coming here to play, and this year she is also taking up handball“.

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