Inclusive & Adaptive Sports Opportunities for Kids in the Valley
Participating in organized sports and activities is an excellent way for children to develop gross motor skills while staying active outside of Kids Place. Sports provide a variety of benefits, including improved strength, balance, coordination, cardiovascular fitness, confidence, and social skills, helping kids build friendships along the way. Beyond physical therapy, sports also support occupational therapy and speech therapy goals in a natural, engaging environment.
Fortunately, many organizations in the Phoenix Valley offer inclusive and adaptive sports programs for children of all abilities, including those with sensory, communication, or mobility challenges. Below are some fantastic programs your child can join today!
Miracle League of Arizona – Adaptive Baseball in Scottsdale
Batter up! Miracle League of Arizona provides a fully accessible baseball experience for individuals with disabilities, ages 4 and up. Their rubberized turf field allows for wheelchairs, walkers, gait trainers, and strollers to navigate with ease. The league offers both non-competitive and competitive divisions, ensuring everyone has a chance to play in a supportive environment.
Each player gets their own walk-up song, a team uniform, and is paired with a volunteer buddy who assists with batting and fielding while parents cheer from the stands. The stadium is designed for inclusivity, featuring a fun adaptive playground where all children can play.
Seasons: Fall, Winter, and Spring – Sign up early when registration opens!
Location: Scottsdale, AZ
🔗 Learn more & register: Miracle League of Arizona | Follow them on Instagram!
Special Olympics Arizona – Year-Round Adaptive Sports
Special Olympics Arizona offers a wide variety of sports throughout the year, including:
🏊 Swimming | 🥎 Softball | ⛳ Golf | 🏈 Football | 🎳 Bowling
⚽ Soccer | 🏀 Basketball | 🎾 Bocce | 📣 Cheerleading | 🏐 Volleyball
Athletes can participate in practices, regional competitions, and state tournaments. Each sport includes either game play or skill presentations, allowing all athletes to develop at their own pace. Special Olympics coaches are trained to adapt activities, ensuring a positive, inclusive experience for all participants.
Many Special Olympics delegations are connected to local school districts, giving children a chance to build lifelong friendships while staying active and having fun.
🔗 Find a delegation & sign up: Special Olympics Arizona
Ability 360 – Adaptive Sports & Fitness Center in Tempe
Ability 360 is a state-of-the-art, fully accessible sports and fitness center serving youth (ages 4-14) and adults with disabilities. Their facility hosts various adaptive sports teams, including:
🏀 Wheelchair Basketball | 🏊 Swimming | 🏋️ Inclusive Fitness Programs
They also offer specialized Healthy Teens, Healthy Communities programs featuring workouts, sport camps, monthly events, and social opportunities. Beyond their facility, Ability 360 organizes valley-wide adaptive activities, such as stargazing, sporting events, crafting, and more.
As a leader in the Phoenix disability community for over 40 years, Ability 360 continues to provide resources, fitness programs, and inclusive events that encourage lifelong health and wellness.
Location: Tempe, AZ
🔗 Learn more & get involved: Ability 360
Want to Volunteer? Get Involved!
Not a parent but still want to make a difference? All of these amazing organizations rely on volunteers to keep their programs running. If you’re interested in giving back, reach out to each organization to learn about volunteer opportunities.
By supporting adaptive sports, you’re helping children of all abilities stay active, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills.
