Tampa Bay Strong Dogs highlight opportunities for athletes with disabilities in Hillsborough County
The Tampa Bay Strong Dogs are Louisiana-bound, capping off a historic season. The wheelchair basketball team will compete this weekend in the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) Championship. The Strong Dogs are one of 16 teams in the nation to receive a bid for the tournament, representing Tampa Bay on the biggest stage. The team's program coordinator says it's a great accomplishment for the Adaptive Sports program.
"We are coming into this tournament with a bit of an underdog mentality," said one team leader. "We have everything to gain and nothing to lose."
About the Adaptive Sports program
Hillsborough County Adaptive Sports is a signature program that promotes health, independence, and personal growth through sports for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. The Adaptive Sports program offers opportunities for everyone to compete. Program leaders say their biggest message to anyone interested is to try it out. Adaptive Sports offers a safe space for individuals with a disability who are searching for competition and a community.
View the full list of sports offered year-round.
Who the Adaptive Sports program serves
With more than 300 athletes participating each year, the Adaptive Sports program serves people of all ages and disabilities. Recreational and competitive sports for youth (ages 7 to 22) with physical and intellectual disabilities are offered throughout the year. Adaptive Sports has also partnered with the James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital and Wounded Warrior Project to provide free programming for veterans.
Veterans Adaptive Sports:
- Archery
- Bocce Ball
- Pickleball
- Walking Club
Special Olympics
The Adaptive Sports program also offers training and competition in several sports for athletes interested in competing in the Special Olympics. The program is for all ages of individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability. The training has led to athletes from the Tampa Bay area representing Team USA at major competitions. Leaders within the program say the goal is to ensure athletes get the necessary training to reach the level of competition desired. No matter what that level of competition is, program leaders say it's all about serving the community.
"It's all about being passionate for the people we serve. Whether it's people with intellectual disabilities or people with physical disabilities, having the resource here in Hillsborough County is special."
As for the Tampa Bay Strong Dogs, the team says this weekend is all about showcasing how the Adaptive Sports program can lead to big opportunities. Team leaders hope to raise awareness about the program and highlight the work these athletes put in to compete at a national event.
The Tampa Bay Strong Dogs will livestream their games this weekend on their Facebook page.
Find out more information on the Adaptive Sports program.