3) Summary of Support Sector Interviews

Mr. Yu-ping Chao and Mr. Hsin-da Lee were the real pioneers in the development of deaf sports and Deaf Women's Basketball. Under the lead of Mr. Chao, Taiwan won the bid to host the 2009 Deaflympics, and defined Taiwan’s leading position in international deaf sports events. The Deaf Women's Basketball Team, which was established for the purpose of the Deaflympics, has also grown steadily after overcoming financial and player shortage problems. With support from the government and other organizations, they are making their presence in various international sports events.

Mr. Lee was the first coach of the Deaf Women’s Basketball Team, as well as the first hearing-impaired person to obtain the title of national class-A referee. For the deaf basketball players, the communication with the coaches and other team members poses the biggest challenge. With willpower, Mr. Lee managed to overcome various difficulties, won the trust of others, and earned himself the title of international deaf basketball referee. It is his wish for sports to enrich the lives of more hearing-impaired persons. With their perseverance, Mr. Chao and Mr. Lee have both established their places in the sports for the deaf. And with relentless passion, they continue to lead deaf sports in Taiwan to the world.