Hillsborough's Adaptive Sports program invites athletes with physical disabilities to compete in one of the nation's premier wheelchair football leagues
Hillsborough County's Adaptive Sports program is hosting tryouts for the nationally recognized Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team on Saturday, June 6, at Lesley "Les" Miller, Jr. All People's Community Park & Life Center in Tampa. The team competes in the USA Wheelchair Football League (USAWFL), the first national league of its kind for adults with physical disabilities.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team is one of 15 teams competing in the USAWFL and travels throughout the country to participate in league competitions, including tournaments hosted in Tampa. Eligible athletes are encouraged to come out, learn about the sport, and experience the community within Hillsborough's Adaptive Sports program.
For KD Patterson, a military veteran and member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team, adaptive sports are more than just a game.
"Wheelchair sports have helped me tremendously," said Patterson. "It has helped me build a sense of community with guys that I never thought that I'd meet."
Player requirements
- Players must be at least 18 years old as of Aug. 1, 2026.
- Players must have a permanent physical disability that consistently reduces function of lower limbs.
- Players must have an elite performance sport wheelchair. If needed, the team can assist in acquiring a league-approved model.
- Players are required to compete in all USA Wheelchair Football League competitions during the season. Travel expenses are covered by the team.
- Players must participate in at least one practice a week between June 24 and Nov. 1, 2026.
- Practices are held Tuesdays and Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Adaptive Sports program
The wheelchair football team is part of Hillsborough County's Adaptive Sports program, which provides recreational and competitive opportunities for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.
Adan Carbajal, an adaptive recreation specialist, says the impact of the program extends beyond competition.
"The sport of wheelchair football is great for the community," said Carbajal. "These athletes are incredible, and it's just really cool to see."
Tryouts will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at Miller Park & Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa, FL 33617. Athletes interested in participating can learn more about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team as well as eligibility requirements by visiting the team page.
Contact
For questions or more information, email Adan Carbajal or call (813) 347-6191.