Veterans Enjoyed a Day of Fun and Fitness at the Inaugural Adaptive Sports Invitational
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System brought the National Games to you with it’s first-ever local adaptive sports event held on Sept. 29, at the Brentwood School campus
The Inaugural Adaptive Sports Invitational was the first Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service (PM&RS) sponsored community outreach and engagement event focused primarily on Veteran health through sports, movement, and social activities, such as pickleball, basketball, yoga, cornhole, golf, dance, art, bingo, tai-chi and virtual reality.
“Adaptive sports enable Veterans of all skill levels and abilities to compete in recreation pursuits and incorporates accommodations such as assistive devices and modified sport rules so disabled Veterans can engage in these activities safely and competitively,” said Myisha Jones, recreation therapy section manager at Los Angeles VA.
At the Adaptive Sports Invitational, “Veterans could demo and learn new activities and sports they are curious about and invite family and friends to watch them participate,” said Jones. The event also helped increase awareness among Veterans of year-round opportunities and resources at the local and national level, said Jones.
“It’s good to set goals, so these events give me motivation to work out continually, and I’ve always had a good time,” said William “Bill” Brandt, a U.S. Air Force Veteran that attended the National Wheelchair Games, the Summer Sports Clinic, and the Adaptive Sports Invitational, where he received a certificate recognizing his dedication and competitive edge.
The Adaptive Sports Invitational was also a great way for Veterans to just enjoy a day filled with sports, friends, and fun.
“The camaraderie among all the Veterans, as well as among the team, it took the walls off the VA clinic and let us deliver care in a very unique way that helps Veterans experience more, do more, and improve their quality of life,” said Kristen Eneberg-Boldon, rehabilitation program manager at Los Angeles VA. Events like these not only help promote physical wellness, but also help improve mental health and the social lives of Veterans.
“Physical activity releases endorphins, which can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, sports provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and reducing stress,” said Dr. Blessen Eapen, chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Los Angeles VA. “Adaptive sports programs often foster a sense of community and camaraderie among Veterans. These connections can be vital in combating feelings of isolation and helping Veterans build a support network.”
“It was a great experience,” said Ricardo Gillum, Army Veteran, “because I met a of bunch of people that I didn’t know and had fun with. I ended up doing one-on-one basketball, participating in the drum circle, pickleball, and playing dominos with some new friends I met there.” Gillum received a certificate for ultimate fandom at the event to recognize his excitement, charisma, and support for sporting and health.
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System hopes to do this event every year. When asked if he would come back next year, Gillum replied, “I’m there.”
To learn more about how to participate in the next Adaptive Sport Invitational, please reach out to your recreation therapy section for more information at 310-478-3711 ext. 43578, and to learn more on how to participate in the national games please reach out to your recreation therapist on how to qualify and for details about the application process or visit https://department.va.gov/veteran-sports/.