It is just as important for youth with disabilities to be physically active and have the
opportunity to participate in sports. Many organizations exist to provide
opportunities for these athletes. Here is a list of a few.
America’s Athletes with Disabilities – Click on Links to find a long list of sites for athletes with disabilities.
American Association of Adapted Sports Programs (AAASP) – “AAASP’s mission is to oversee the partnership of leaders in education and community to lay the foundation for a national network of interscholastic adapted athletic programs.” Originally started in Georgia, AASP has launched Project ASPIRE to help youth with disabilities get involved in sports throughout the nation. Find out about the sports AASP offers as well as how you can get involved.
Athletes Helping Athletes – This organization helps provide handcycles to children with disabilities so that they can get involved in physical activity. Parents of a child with a disability can find out how to apply for a grant at this site.
Blaze Sports Clubs of America – Offers opportunities to both adults and children with a wide range of disabilities
Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) – This organization provides grants to people with all types of physical disabilities so that they can participate in a physically active lifestyle.
Directory of Sports Organizations for Athletes with Disabilities – This page provides a directory of organizations offering a wide range of sports from Archery to Wilderness and Hiking for athletes with disabilities.
Exceptionally Excited Kids (EEK) – EEK Fitness is a non-profit organization for all special needs children and adults with physical or mental disabilities
Fishing has no Boundaries – History, events and programs for those with disabilities interested in fishing.
Just for Kicks – Soccer program for children with disabilities. Serves children ages 3-15.
Little League Challenger Division – A separate division of Little League baseball specifically for children with physical and mental disabilities.
National Disability Sports Alliance – Offers sports such as basketball, boccia, indoor wheelchair soccer, and youth sports.
Special Olympics – Provides athletic opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities
Sports for Kids Foundation – Assists physically and emotionally challenged children through fundraisers. Uses the proceeds to help children participate in athletic activities among other things.
S.T.R.I.D.E. – Provides opportunities for children with disabilities, including a camping, bowling, sailing and skiing.
The Miracle League – Offers baseball leagues for children with disabilities.
US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer – Check out the TOPSoccer link on the website under programs for information on soccer programs for children with disabilities.
Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports – Recreation opportunities, kid’s winter camp, and volunteering opportunities.
Wheelchair Sports, USA – This is a sports organization for youth and adults with physical and visual disabilities. Each year they host the National Junior Disability Championships for youth ages 7-21.
World T.E.A.M. (The Exceptional Athlete Matters) – Pairs disabled and non-disabled athletes together to participate in sports.
Find information on Wheel Chair Basketball, Wheel Chair Tennis, Track & Field,
Adapted Swimming, Quad Rugby, Boccia