Youth Programs
Adapted Athletes
Grab your brother, your sister, or your friends from school and come and
try out this program! Adapted Athletes is a program for participants with
physical and visual disabilities and their peers to learn about adapted
sports and hang out with their friends. Each season the group will focus
on several adapted sports; we will learn the rules and adaptations of the
game and practice skills week after week. If you have a sibling or peer that
would like to volunteer, please see the Adapted Teammates description to
register.
Note: Adapted equipment will be provided to make everyone’s
experience successful. This program is designed specifically for
athletes with visual or physical impairments who use wheelchairs
or are ambulatory.
Goals: Increase physical endurance. Improve individual sports skills and
knowledge of adapted sports. Develop peer relationships.
Adapted Teammates
Calling all volunteers! NSSRA is looking for teammates for our Adapted
Athletes program. We are looking for volunteers age 7 - 15 ready to share
in the fun and excitement. As an adapted teammate, you will be paired
with an athlete with a physical or visual disability as they learn to play a
new adapted sport. Help us create a program where everyone can have
fun in an exciting and successful atmosphere. While there is no fee to be
an adapted teammate, you must register.
Contact:
Mel Robson
Age:
7 - 15
Location:
West Ridge Center, Highland Park
Time:
5:00 – 6:00 pm
Date:
Thursdays, September 22 – November 17
Min/Max:
4/8
Program Code/Fee: 468609-02 / FREE
Contact:
Mel Robson
Age:
8 - 21
Location:
West Ridge Center, Highland Park
Time:
5:00 – 6:00 pm
Date:
Thursdays, September 22 – November 17
Min/Max:
4/8
Program Code/Fee: 468609-01 / $87
Horseback Riding
Saddle up! Equestrian Connection is a one-of-a-kind stable that provides therapeutic horseback riding specifically designed for individuals with special
needs. Participants will work to gain strength, flexibility and balance through riding. Each participant will learn how to ride, groom, saddle and tack a horse.
During the program, the group will also be engaged in other horse-related activities and a snack will be provided each week. A waiver will be sent prior to
program; the waiver must be returned to the NSSRA office before participation in this program is approved. Note: As a safety precaution for
all, participants over 250 pounds will do ground work with horses instead of riding. No program September 22.
Goals: Increase flexibility and range of motion while on the horse. Gain self-confidence and a sense of control through stable skills. Develop companionship
with the horse and a sense of responsibility.
Contact: Kyle Donegan Program Code/Fee:
460810-01 / $307
Age: 16 and up Transportation Code/Fee: 460810-51 / $81
Location: Equestrian Connection, Lake Forest Pick Up Drop Off
Time:
5:45 - 7:00 pm
Times/Locations:
4:15 pm
NSSRA
8:30 pm
Date:
Thursdays, September 29- November 17
4:45 pm
WCRC
8:00 pm
Min/Max:
6 / 9
5:15 pm
Moraine
7:30 pm
Gator Swim Team
Gator Swim team is designed for swimmers who want to compete. Swimmers must be able to swim one length of
the pool without assistance or stopping to rest. The first few weeks will focus on conditioning and practice. Note: All
athletes must attend these practices as well as take a Skills Assessment Test to gain eligibility for Special
Olympics Illinois competitions. All athletes must have a current Special Olympics Illinois Application for Participation on file.
Goals: Enhance strength and endurance, promote stroke development, and increase physical condition