A new handheld grid enabling visually impaired people to participate in the sport of Boccia has been developed by Loughborough University designers.

Boccia is a Paralympic sport specifically designed for athletes with a severe degree of physical disability.  Men and women compete together in teams, pairs and individual events, attempting to throw leather balls as close as possible to a white target ball.

Until now the sport was not suitable for people with a visual impairment, but this is set to change thanks to a new device created by George Torrens from the Loughborough Design School.

George was approached by sports coaches Mark Beeby and Faye Kanchelski to help develop their concept Tactile Boccia – a spin off from traditional Boccia that would enable the visually impaired to participate in the sport.

via University device helps open up Boccia for the visually impaired.