Adaptive Sports in Bartholomew County and Surrounding Areas
Special Olympics:
Each year there are various Special Olympics events held by the Special Olympics of Indiana. You can get more information about specific events and how to join on their website here:
Parks and Recreation Columbus
Basketball Buddies is a 4 week program for kids/young adults with special needs who would like to learn fundamental basketball skills and make new friends! Participants are paired with buddies that will assist with skills such as dribbling, shooting, and passing. Players are encouraged to bring their own equipment (especially if modified) but we will provide for those that need it! Recommended for ages 5+.
The program will be held on Jan 28, Feb 4, 18, and 25th.
Registration: December 18 - January 20, 5 p.m.
The program will be held on Jan 28, Feb 4, 18, and 25th.
Please use code eb6c844 to sign up for Remind messages/announcements and reminders
Skate Therapy:
The Hamilton County Community Center offers dedicated one-on-one dedicated skating lessons for people with disabilities. For more information, you can contact the Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena at (812) 376-2686. You can also find more information on the Columbus Parks and Rec website here:
Address: 2501 Lincoln Park Dr, Columbus, IN 47201
Special Swim:
A swimming instruction program for children 5-18 with special needs. Pre-registration is required, and class sizes are limited. You can find more information on the Columbus Parks and Rec website here:
Tuesday & Thursdays
9:15-10:15 a.m. or 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Registration: April 6 – May 29, 5:00 p.m.
Address: 739 22nd St #4101, Columbus, IN 47201
Phone: (812) 376-2683
Sensory Open Gym:
The sensory open gym is a safe space for children 2-14 years old who have Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, or have special sensory needs. The entire facility is set aside so attendees can exercise and play as they see fit in a safe environment. They have upcoming events on August 12, September 9, and October 14. You can find more information on the Columbus Parks and Rec website here:
Gym Buddies:
A special needs gymnastics class is held on Fridays for students who have special needs and sensory issues. The instructors are trained to help the athletes develop muscle, creative movements, and social development. Parents and/ or co-adults are required.
Current and Upcoming sessions:
Summer 2
6/29-8/14
Fall
8/17-10/3
Winter 1
10/12-12/19
Winter 2
1/4-2/27/21
Spring
3/1-4/29/21
You can find more information on the Columbus Parks and Rec website here:
Buddy Baseball:
A four-session clinic for players with special needs. Players will be paired with buddies that will assist the players and take them to the field to help them work on baseball-related skills. Players are encouraged to bring their own equipment, but equipment will be provided if needed. Registration is April 21 and the events are on Saturdays from April 29-May 20. You can find more information on the Columbus Parks and Rec website here:
Soccer Buddies:
A four-session clinic for players with special needs. Players will be paired with buddies that will assist the players and take them to the field to help them work on soccer-related skills. Players are encouraged to bring their own equipment, but equipment will be provided if needed. Dates are yet to be announced. You can find more information on the Columbus Parks and Rec website here:
Adaptive Sports Offered By the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana:
The Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana offers various adaptive sports activities. They offer:
· Wheelchair Lacrosse
· Wheelchair Basketball
· Wheelchair and Adaptive Standing Tennis
· Sled Hockey
· Blind Hockey
· Beep Basketball
· Power Soccer
· Quadriplegic Rugby
Additional information on the sports teams and how to apply can be found on their website here: