Rohan Eastley sets sights on international boccia stage

Three years ago, Rohan Eastley had never heard of boccia. Now, the young athlete from Deloraine is a national competitor with international aspirations, supported by his community and a passion for the precision-based sport.

“It is a target ball sport,” Eastley explains, “and it’s only played by people who have physical disabilities.”

For Eastley, who has cerebral palsy, the journey into boccia began with a suggestion from a teacher following the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics. Since then, he has made rapid progress in the sport, earning accolades and respect along the way.

In the span of just a few years, Eastley has already competed in multiple competitions locally and nationally. “I have done four Tasmanian titles, three Queensland and national titles,” he says. “I got silver twice in the Tassie titles, one [silver] in Queensland, and a bronze in Queensland this year.”

More recently, he was recognised as the 2024 Para Athlete of the Year by UTAS, a testament to both his dedication and performance.

Boccia, often described as a mix of strategy and precision, rewards mental sharpness as much as physical skill. Eastley believes success comes from being able to anticipate the game several moves ahead. “If you are good and can think five steps ahead,” he says, “you can rise to the top”.

That kind of focus has led him to his proudest moment so far: being accepted into the Tasmanian Institute of Sport (TIS). “Getting into the TIS,” he says, without hesitation, when asked about his favourite memory in the sport.

Eastley’s goals for the future are equally ambitious. He’s currently categorised as “pre-emerging” in the national boccia system but aims to achieve “emerging” status soon, a necessary step for competing internationally. “Once I get categorised as emerging, then I’m able to compete in international competitions,” Eastley explains.

And the potential destinations are already sparking excitement. “Kazakhstan and Czech Republic,” he says, smiling at the prospect of competing on foreign soil.

Eastley’s local boccia experience began in community groups, including a social session through table tennis and more structured opportunities at ParaQuad in Devonport and New Horizons in Launceston. “Find a local group and ask to join,” he advises anyone interested in getting involved. “I didn’t even know [it] existed,” he adds, underscoring how unknown the sport can be to many Australians.

While Eastley’s talent and drive have carried him far, he is quick to credit the Meander Valley community for helping him get there. In particular, he highlights their support in raising funds for essential equipment. Eastley’s ramp, a crucial piece of equipment for competing in boccia, was crowdfunded by the local community, which raised $7,000 to support his journey.

Eastley believes boccia offers a great opportunity for people with physical disabilities – one that has benefited him enormously – and encourages others to give it a try and join him at the Deloraine Performing Arts Centre each week.