Anyone can play soccer.
That’s what SportAbility BC wants to help get across with their power soccer program, which was recently the victim of low registration – an ongoing problem with many similar programs, according to SportAbility sport development coordinator Justine Maurer.
Originally, there was a free power soccer session planned at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre on May 4. However, due to the low number of people who registered, the session will be converted into a less involved drop-in event.
Power soccer is a variation of the incredibly popular sport and is designed for people who use power wheelchairs, with a plastic or metal guard placed over the front of the wheelchair to allow the players to push around the ball more easily.
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“Low registrations and involvement with adapted sport is an ongoing barrier for disability sport organizations in BC,” said Maurer.
“Many barriers exist that prevent participation, such as inadequate transportation, customization of equipment, and financial costs. SportAbility is committed to minimizing the barriers for British Columbians with disabilities by offering low-cost sports programs and opportunities across the province.”
In addition to providing power soccer programs, SportAbility also offers boccia, para hockey, and cp/para soccer.
“Our goal is to continue to offer free ‘try it’ sessions year-round to provide an opportunity to engage in sport as much as possible,” said Maurer.
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The open drop-in programming session at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre will take place on Saturday, May 4, from 1:15 to 2:45 p.m.
More information on any of SportAbility’s programs is available by emailing info@sportabilitybc.ca.