What do tacos, a rugby match, and a Paralympian have in common?!
The RVA Adaptive Sports Festival – the region’s largest showcase of sports and recreational opportunities for people with disabilities – Saturday, April 15 – 10am-2pm at Glen Allen High School!
With non-stop action on all three courts, you’ll hear the unmistakable clash of metal rugby wheelchairs colliding during a full-contact match. The familiar swoosh as Virginia’s all-star wheelchair basketball players sink another three-pointer. And all eyes will be on Paralympian Trevon Jenifer when he takes center court to share his personal experience in adaptive sports and his life as a double amputee.
These are the Top 5 highlights you won’t want to miss:
1. Paralympic Gold Medalist Trevon Jenifer
Gold Medalist. World Champion. Collegiate All-American. U.S. Secret Service. Father.
Keynote speaker Trevon Jenifer will take center stage on the Allianz Partners Court at 12:00 p.m. to share his personal message of perseverance, disability awareness, and the impact of adaptive sports.
Then, Jenifer will join top wheelchair basketball players from across the state in the 95 versus 64 All-Star Game at 1:00 p.m.
2. Rugby Ruckus
Searching for an adrenaline rush that comes with a full-contact sport as a participant or a spectator? Look no further than wheelchair rugby.
Originally called “Murderball” due to its aggressive nature, wheelchair rugby is an intense sport for athletes with quadriplegia.
The rules combine elements of rugby, basketball, and handball and collisions between the specially crafted rugby wheelchairs are a major part of the game.
Don’t miss the Sportable Possums exhibition match on the MEDRVA Court at 11:00am.
3. Soccer, Soccer, and More Soccer
We know the World Cup ended months ago, but our adaptive soccer programs are just heating up!
The Sportable Hive Power Soccer Team will take to the court at 10:30 a.m. before U.S. Paralympic National Team player Nick Creasey and licensed coach Joe Farrell host a CP Soccer clinic at 11:00 a.m.
PLUS – the U.S. National Amputee Soccer Team will be hosting skills clinics and demos all day while facilitating access to soccer for individuals with limb difference or limb loss.
4. Tacos. Enough Said.
Asian Mexican American Street Takos to be exact.
Bring your appetite because Richmond’s iconic Boka Tako will be serving up the flavors fresh off the grill all day.
5. There's Something for Everyone
From adaptive karate demos to fitness classes. Outdoor adventures to art. There is something for everyone with over 80 community resources on display.