Through a valued partnership with Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Martinsburg VA offered a one-time pickleball clinic for its wheelchair Veterans participating in a recreation therapy program.
According to PVA, pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and the medical center hopes for more opportunities like this not only at its location but throughout VA.
This camp provided wheelchair Veterans the opportunity to learn the skills, techniques, and rules of the game, while enjoying a little competition with their Veteran comrades.
“We thoroughly believe in the power of adaptive sports,” said Darren Yowell, recreation specialist. “And that’s why we’re so passionate about it here at Martinsburg VA.”
“Adaptive sports improve Veterans’ quality of life.”
Pickleball is easily adapted for wheelchair play, as all required equipment for for the game is the same, such as paddles and balls. Adaptive games are played by athletes seated in a manual or sports wheelchair, and the ball is allowed to bounce twice.
It’s also very versatile in that it can be played indoors or outdoors, and is one of the few games you will find where adaptive athletes can play together with ambulatory athletes.
Clinically speaking, recreational sports keep Veterans physically active. For wheelchair Veterans, this is especially important in terms of maintaining or enhancing one’s Activities of Daily Living.
“Participation in recreational sports—and particularly adaptive sports—improves our Veterans’ quality of life,” said Yowell. “Whether it’s pickleball, swimming, air rifle, softball or more, we know all these offerings have a variety of health benefits.”
“Keeps me in shape and involved with other Veterans.”
Physical, social, emotional and mental health all play key roles when maintaining one’s overall whole-health.
James Mitchell, and Army Veteran who enjoys trying new things said that “I think it’s important to progress physically and I’m excited to participate in this pickleball opportunity.”
“I would absolutely encourage other Veterans to get involved with VA recreational sports,” said Meaghan Menth, a Navy Veteran. “Adaptive sports keep me in shape and involved with other Veterans. I have made a lot of friends along the way.”
