AccesSportAmerica

CONTACT:

119 High Street
Acton, MA 01720
978-264-0985
www.accessportamerica.org

Rev. Ross W. Lilley, Executive Director and Founder

DESCRIPTION:

AccesSportAmerica was founded in 1995 by Rev. Ross Lilley, a high-challenge sports enthusiast, whose son, Josh, had been born in 1986 with cerebral palsy. Rev. Lilley had taught Josh increasingly challenging sports, and discovered that both he and Josh were enriched by the experience. Josh’s accomplishments consistently exceeded their expectations, and strengthened not only his physical skills but his willingness to undertake challenges and his self-esteem. AccesSportAmerica is “dedicated to the discovery of higher function and achievement for children and adults with disabilities, through high-challenge sports.” The sports are windsurfing, kayaking, rowing/sculling, outrigger canoeing, water-skiing, kite sailing, rock climbing, cycling and soccer. By exceeding expectations and broadening opportunities of those facing life lived with disabilities, children and adults soon realize that they are much more than their disability. Careful training in customized curricula, gradually mastering balance, coordination and fear, does wonders. The group develops adaptive equipment, networks with colleague institutions, and promotes its methods nationwide. Over 600 children and adults now participate annually, and that number is growing. Awards have begun. This is a great idea and a genuine breakthrough in this field. It has a great future, in which we hope you will share.

(2004: HUMAN SERVICES: Children and Youth: Sports and Summer)