Paralympic Experience

The Paralympic Experience program introduces individuals with physical disabilities to Paralympic sport on the local and international levels.  The goal of the program is show individuals with physical disabilities how participation in sport and living a healthy, active lifestyle can have a profoundly positive impact on their lives.

Paralympic Sport Clubs, located in more than 100 communities across the U.S., annually host a one-day Paralympic Experience event that exposes local participants to a variety of Paralympic sport opportunities available in the community. To find a Paralympic Experience in your community, visit the Paralympic Activity Network.

Every two years, one Paralympic Experience is held internationally in conjunction with the Paralympic Games. Students with physical disabilities (ages 14-19), as well as the teachers and coaches who instruct them, are selected to attend the Paralympic Games to see elite-level competition, participate in mentoring activities and network with one another.

Paralympic Experience Vancouver
U.S. Paralympics will be hosting 12 student-athletes (ages 14-19) with physical disabilities and six adults, made up of coaches, teachers and program leaders at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver, Canada, March 12-21.

Participants in the Paralympic Experience Vancouver will have the opportunity to meet U.S. Paralympic Team members, attend Opening Ceremonies and athletic competitions and build camaraderie with other potential Paralympians.