Paralympic Sport Development Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ#
There are many sport clubs across the nation with adaptive and inclusive sport programming.
Find a program near you by checking out this page.
Absolutely. There's no pressure to pursue an elite-athlete career. Research shows that daily physical activity enhances not only an individual's self-esteem and peer relationships, but also results in increased achievement and better health, enabling a higher quality of life.
Starting the national classification process is always a good idea. This will allow you the opportunity to compete in any national competition. If you choose not to be classified at the national level, then you may miss out on competitions that require a sport class.
To get classified, review the eligible impairments listed in the National Medical Diagnostics Form (MDF), and bring the MDF Supporting Documentation Guide to your doctor to complete the NMDF. Once that is complete, contact NPCUSAclassification@usopc.org to submit your MDF and discuss what events are available to attend classification.
Click to download the National Medical Diagnostics Form (MDF)
Check out the coaching resources page here.
Check out the grants and equipment page here.
Yes – State High School Associations across the country are growing their inclusion of adaptive sport in programming. Learn about the different programs here.
As mentioned in the article, "Debunking 10 Common Myths About the Paralympics," this is arguably the biggest misconception about the Paralympics in the United States, one of the few countries where people have heard more about the latter than the former. Chuck Aoki put the difference best, saying: “The Special Olympics are framed as more of an inclusive event for everyone with cognitive disabilities, as opposed to a highly competitive event for athletes with mostly physical and visual disabilities."