After spinal cord injury, depending on your level of injury, opportunities to participate in adaptive sports may be available. Check out these options:
Wheelchair Rugby (Murderball) is a high-contact team sport played on a basketball court. It is one of the most popular Paralympic sports for those with limited hand and arm function. Use the United States Wheelchair Rugby Association (USWRA) “Join a Team” page to search for a club near you.
Power Soccer is a competitive team sport specifically for users of power wheelchairs. It is ideal for individuals with very limited upper body mobility, as the chair does all the work of moving the ball. To join a power soccer team in the US, you should contact local teams listed by the United States Power Soccer Association (USPSA) to express your interest.
In Boccia, similar to bowling, high-level quadriplegics can use a ramp and a mouth-stick or pointer to release the ball. Find opportunities on the national website USAboccia.org.
Adaptive Skiing involves sitting in a bucket seat atop two skis. This typically requires “hands-on” assistance from a trained guide to navigate the slopes. Many ski resorts across the United States offer adaptive skiing programs. Call around to ask.
Wheelchair tennis allows players with limited grip to have the racquet taped to their wrist to maintain control. In this version, the ball is allowed to bounce twice. To learn more and find opportunities for playing, go to USTA.com.
Adaptive kayaking uses reinforced seats with high back support and splints to secure the paddle for quadriplegics with some shoulder or bicep control. Search for opportunities by State/Region: Use terms like “adaptive kayaking [Your State]” or “accessible kayaking [Your City]”.
Handcycling is an excellent cardio workout for those who have some functional use of their arms to operate the hand-cranks. Look for local “Wheels for All” or similar hubs that offer a range of adapted cycles for people with disabilities to try in a supportive environment. You can also buy your own or rent one from some rehabilitation centers.
Then there’s golf. The National Alliance for Accessible Golf maintains a national database of golf facilities and instructional programs that provide adaptive golf cars and programs for golfers with disabilities.
AdapTee Golf (adapteegolf.com ) utilizes several specialized devices to enable play for high level complete quads. A Swingless PowerGolf Driver serves as the primary “driver” and a slingshot mechanism is used. The player directs their caddy on the desired line, height, and power for the shot.
Check out Move United for a directory of adaptive sports chapters across the U.S.
Check out the Kelly Brush Foundation for grants for adaptive sports equipment for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
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