Cancellation of the 17th Winter Deaflympics in Slovakia

Frederick MD, USA - It is with great regret that the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf Executive Board announces the cancellation of the 17th Winter Deaflympics in Slovakia.

The games were scheduled to take place in February 2011. To guarantee the success of the 2011 Winter Deaflympics the Slovakia Deaflympic Organising Committee were required to develop and organise adequate funding, detail planning, final preparation of venues, comprehensive quarterly progress reports, high standard marketing efforts, and being able to provide information about the games to the general public.

Unfortunately the Slovakia Deaflympic Organising Committee were unable to secure confirmation of funding and expected high standards in preparation for the scheduled games to take place. This leaves the Executive Board with a vote of no confidence in the Slovakia Deaflympic Organising Committee.

ICSD recognises that this is a devastating blow to Winter Deaf Sports globally.

ICSD will now be focusing its attention on the ICSD Congress scheduled for 2011 where extensive discussions regarding future Deaflympic events, funding, effective planning and Deaf Sport Reform strategic developments will take place.