About Sports Connection

Sports Connection offers competitive and recreational sports programs for youth with special health needs. These sports and physical-based activities help promote strength, coordination, and teamwork for youth of all ages. These programs include:


Adaptive Aquatics

The adaptive aquatics program is offered to children with special health care needs, ages 3-15 years old. These classes are designed to provide children with special healthcare needs with a positive experience in the water, introduce& teach fundamental aquatic skills, promote water safety, and provide an opportunity for physical activity and social interaction. Please note that this is not a learn-to-swim program, although fundamental swim instruction is incorporated. Instructors combine traditional Red Cross Learn-to-Swim methods with sensory and recreational strategies to match the needs of each child. 

Supported Swim

The supported swim program provides children and youth with disabilities access to a warm water therapy pool and support staff. Children register weekly to swim, play, and have fun! Siblings without special needs are able to register as additional swimmers as space permits.

Lightning Wheels - Paralympic Sports Club

Children's Lightning Wheels, a Paralympic Sports Club, sponsored by Children's Specialized Hospital, is a sports team for athletes ages 5-22 that have a primary diagnosis of physical disability.


Martial Arts  

Our martial arts program provides a special opportunity for children & youth with special healthcare needs between the ages 3-21 years old. The classes provide instruction on basic martial arts techniques and listening skills. Coordination of movement, balance, body awareness, strength, and thought are also incorporated. This program provides children with an opportunity for positive peer interactions and promotes a sense of independence, confidence, and belonging.

Court Sports 
Court Sports is an indoor sports program that provides fun for all levels. Kids ages 9-14 will play a variety of team sports such as basketball, volleyball, and frisbee in the LifeTown gym! Sessions will include warm ups, games, drills, and activities to get the body moving, work as a team and learn techniques for each sport.