For children of all abilities, sports can be a powerful way to build confidence, develop skills, and have fun. In the Central Valley, several organizations are making it possible for kids with disabilities to experience the joy of sports in their own unique way. In November 2024, we proudly to featured adaptive athlete Reed (pictured above), from Valley Children’s Hospital Adaptive Sports program, on the cover. In this article, we’ll spotlight five local adaptive sports programs that are helping kids thrive, both on and off the court.
Valley Children’s Hospital Adaptive Sports Program
The Valley Children’s Hospital Adaptive Sports Program (VCHASP) offers free recreational and athletic activities for individuals with disabilities. It supports those with physical impairments such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, spinal cord injuries, and amputations. For over 10 years, the program has relied entirely on donations, equipment, and the expertise of volunteers. Through activities like water and snow skiing, track and field, rock climbing, kayaking, wheelchair basketball, and tennis, the VCHASP utilizes regional resources to provide participants with fun, athletic experiences.
The program offers a unique opportunity for kids and teens with similar physical disabilities to come together and increase their social interaction. These programs help boost self-esteem, encourage a healthy lifestyle, help combat the obesity epidemic, encourage support networks, decrease risk of fragility fractures in this high-risk population, and increase independence. Parents of participants have the opportunity to connect with other parents, finding support, encouragement, and friendship. Visit valleychildrens.org/adaptive-sports for upcoming events.
ESYN (Exceptional Sports for Youth with Needs)
ESYN (Exceptional Sports for Youth with Needs) is a non-profit organization, in partnership with Central Valley Resource Center. Their purpose is to involve youth and adults with special needs in sports and activities. They tailor events so that anyone can participate, make friends, and be a part of a team with their peers. It also allows the families to come together in a warm atmosphere where they can find support.
ESYN was founded back in 2016. Their vision was to create a program that would allow kids and adults to participate in physical activities, holiday celebrations, and fun—all in a safe environment. They started with a small bowling group in Selma, and are now in their eighth year. Annually events include indoor soccer, an Easter egg hunt and barbecue, indoor bowling, a Halloween carnival and raffle, and Breakfast with Santa. They have collaborated with Challenger League Baseball through Selma Little League, SpiritHorse Connections, Project Surf Camp, and more. Events are little to no cost and scholarships are available for residents of Selma and Kingsburg, as well as some families that are in need. Visit esyn-selma.com for more information.
The Central California Adaptive Sports Center
The Central California Adaptive Sports Center (CCASC) is a non-profit organization located in Shaver Lake that provides year-round outdoor adventures to those with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. CCASC’s instructors specialize in tailoring outdoor activities to the abilities of each participant. Activities include mountain biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, fly-fishing, spin cast fishing, rock climbing, mountaineering, hiking, camping, sit-skiing, stand-up skiing, stand-up snowboarding, snow biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing .
If you are interested in participating, complete the online registration and a CCASC staff member will reach out. Currently, programs are free to individuals registered with the Central Valley Regional Center, veterans with disabilities, and those with spinal cord injuries. Other grants and scholarships may apply. If you’d like to get involved, CCASC is in need of fundraising support, event support, office assistance, instructors, and more. Visit centralcaladaptive.org for more information.
The Adapted Athlete
The Adapted Athlete offers a wide range of adaptive sports and activities for individuals with disabilities, including soccer, basketball, football, sports clinics, group fitness classes, private training, and more. Their programs primarily serve athletes ages 10 and older, with events for all ages throughout the year. Their mission is to build confidence and foster social connections by integrating athletes into the community. Whether it’s on the field or in the gym, participants gain skills, friendships, and a sense of belonging in a supportive environment.
Thanks to grants, fundraising, and local partnerships, many of the programs are available at low or no cost. If you’re a parent looking for opportunities for your child, or a family interested in supporting adaptive sports, visit theadaptedathlete.org or email theadaptedathlete@gmail.com.
The Core 3 Method
Core3 was created in response to a growing need for adaptive sports, evolving to meet the diverse requirements of its participants. Its philosophy is simple: treat every individual like family—the kind of family you truly like and love! Each participant is unique, and the program tailors its approach to fit their diagnosis, preferences, triggers, and, most importantly, what brings them joy. The vision behind the facility was to unite people from all walks of life, regardless of background or ability, under one roof. Health, wellness, and laughter are at the heart of the program, but it goes beyond that, aiming to bridge the gap in understanding special needs within the broader community.
By teaming up with local athletes, the program fosters inclusion and builds connections. Many of these athletes initially had little knowledge of conditions like autism or Down syndrome. However, through working closely with participants, they’ve developed a deeper understanding and empathy. Participants now join local bowling and basketball leagues, attend high school and college games regularly, and are greeted by many of the top athletes in the community. Visit core3methodonline.com to learn more.