How to Start an Athletic Team
Published: September 1, 2014
Are you currently in a wheelchair and looking for an activity to help you stay active and in shape? Whether you're a student or an adult, you may find it difficult to find a team or sport that exists for wheelchair users in your community. If this happens to be the case, then we have the perfect solution for you — create your own team! Below, you'll be able to view tips that can help you accomplish this task!
Creating an Activity for Wheelchair Users
If you're ready to get started and create a team or activity for wheelchair users, then this guide can help you. Try using these tips to get started:
Get Permission — This rule is particularly important for those who are students. You will find it necessary to get permission from the principal or a member of the school board before you can actively begin a sport or club.
Choose an Activity — There are a range of games and activities you can choose from, so find one that you like and roll with it! Once you pick a sport or club, you will need to do some research to learn the rules, etc.
Create a Team — Once you have permission, have chosen a sport, and are familiar with the rules of the sport, it will then be time to get others involved. You may find it necessary to offer involvement to those who aren’t in wheelchairs. If this takes place, you will then need to find extra wheelchairs via a hospital, nursing home, etc. Please note that the wheelchairs will have to meet certain standards to ensure everyone's safety.
Find a Mentor — No matter what your age is, you will need to find a coach or mentor of some sort to supervise and be in charge of the team or organization. This person will essentially be the leader, the person who schedules games, practices, etc.
Learning the Rules — You may know the rules of the sport or club, but does everyone else? Make sure everyone is up to date on how to play or participate in the activity. It may be beneficial to give all participants a copy of the rules, too.
Finding a Location — Last but not least, you will need to find an appropriate location for all participants to take part in the activity. This could be a gym or local rec center.
Have Fun!
Of course, the most important thing to remember throughout this process is to have fun! After all, you want to create this activity or organization so that you and your friends can have fun together, right? Also, remember to have good sportsmanship and always play by the rules.
