In the fall of 2022, Aaron’s Acres was excited to introduce programming for adults with disabilities ages 21-40 as we partnered with Chuckie Magee Flag Football & Cheerleading League. In the spring of 2023, we were thrilled to grow the opportunities we have available for this age group by adding another adult program – The Aaron’s Acres Adult Sports League.
In its first season, we had 20 registered participants and 7 volunteers. The program takes place at Lancaster Brethren in Christ Church over 7 weeks in the spring. Games are held on Saturday mornings from 10AM to 12PM. This year, participants in the Adult Sports League had the opportunity to try out kickball, soccer, and floor hockey. Each sport was played back-to-back for 2 of the 7 games. The sport for the 7th game was determined by the participants and what they were most interested in as a group.
Participants start by warming up and practicing skills relevant to the sport for the day. Then participants split into 4 groups/teams and play against each for the first hour. After a quick break, participants combine their 4 small groups into 2 large groups. This allows participants to slowly learn the skills needed to play the selected sport in a small group before playing the big game for the day. Equipment was modified to better meet the needs of the participants by using foam padded floor hockey sticks and larger softer soccer balls for kickball and soccer.
The first season allowed us to see what sports were most liked by those who participated. As we continue to grow the program, we hope to narrow in on the sports they have the most interest in so that we can focus on the game, rules, and skills relevant to that sport.
An unexpected but fantastic addition to the season was the parent/player game. All the participants played against all the parents to finish out one of the soccer games during the season. It was a high energy game full of fun! A parent made this suggestion, and it was a highlight of the season. This has now been added to the 2024 season as a planned activity. We hope to continue this tradition and make it a part of all future seasons.
The spring 2024 season of Aaron’s Acres’ Adult Sports League will start in February. At that time, we will share more about details for the upcoming season as to what sport(s) we will be playing, etc. Look for more information coming later this year about how you can register as a participant, sign up as a volunteer or become a league sponsor.
Volunteers are a huge part of this program, and we love having them join us throughout the season! Volunteers serve as great positive role models for our players. They are integral to teaching skills, bringing energy, assisting participants, and having fun! Volunteers often build great rapport with participants and cannot wait to return. We are always looking for new volunteers each season and our needs will continue to grow with the program. As the number of participants increases, we will also need volunteers to help as coaches and other lead figures in the program.
We look forward to the next season in the spring and the future of adult programming at Aaron’s Acres! We hope you consider joining us or supporting this program when it begins in February!
