Establishing Adaptive Sports Programs for Youth with Moderate to Severe Disabilities

Abstract

Children with disabilities are at increased risk of health risk factors including obesity, often because of low levels of physical activity and limited participation in sports. However, organized adaptive sports programs are increasingly available for individuals with disabilities. This article provides recommendations for establishing successful adaptive baseball and soccer leagues for children and youth with disabilities in schools and other community-based recreational facilities. In addition, the authors describe lessons learned from 8 years of experience with a university-community partnership in baseball and soccer for individuals with disabilities.

Keywords:

• adaptive sports
• therapeutic recreation, baseball, soccer

Notes

See http://sites.google.com/site/clemsonchallenger