American Association of AdaptED SPORTS Programs Interview

#583 Great.com Talks With... AdaptED Sports

Having a physical disability should not limit a person's ability to participate in sports and athletic activities. Unfortunately, this has been an ongoing issue that has prevented several individuals from experiencing the benefits of sports, such as camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment. Thankfully, the American Association of Adapted Sports Programs (AAASP) has been addressing this problem and creating opportunities for athletes to take part in athletics. In this article, we talk with Christy Jones, who is the Associate Director of AAASP, to learn about the work of the American Association of Adapted Sports Programs and how they are changing the game and promoting inclusivity in sports.

Understanding the World of Adapted Sports

AAASP is a non-profit organization that operates as the largest multi-sport, multi-disability organization in the United States. The organization's main goal is to promote equal opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities to participate in sports. Over the years, AAASP has contributed to the development of adapted sports and athletics programs across the US, creating opportunities for individuals living with physical disabilities.

One of the most impactful AAASP initiatives was the Wheelchair Basketball program, which started in the early 1990s. This program was created to provide an opportunity for individuals with physical disabilities to take part in basketball games and feel included in school sports programs. Since it began, the program has expanded to 25 states, creating opportunities for thousands of athletes to participate in sports.

Additionally, the AAASP has been instrumental in creating inclusive sports programs for disabled people, such as wheelchair football, bocce, and goalball. The organization has partnered with schools, rehabilitation centers, and community centers to provide accessible sporting programs that allow disabled people to participate in physical activities.

The AAASP has recognized the need to support not just the athletes themselves, but also the individuals who make adapted sports possible. The organization provides resources and training to coaches, officials, and volunteers who work with athletes. These programs have helped to improve the quality of coaching available for athletes, ultimately resulting in better experiences for participants.

The AAASP's contributions to promoting inclusivity and equality for athletes is commendable. Through its programs, the organization has created an environment that fosters connectivity, participation, and acceptance for athletes with physical disabilities. It has also been at the forefront of creating impactful initiatives that offer opportunities for disabled people to participate in sports. Adapted athletics through the AAASP positively impacts the disabled community's mental and physical wellbeing, and it's an organization worth supporting. If you are interested in supporting the AAASP, head to their website and learn more about their extensive efforts.

Want to know more about AAASP? Make sure to read their stories, as every one of these stories matter, and to follow them on Facebook and Twitter. You can also visit their website to find out more about their programs and initiatives.