Summertime is synonymous with outdoor adventures and days spent soaking up rays of sunshine. It’s the perfect time of year for outdoor water sports. Adaptive Aquatics, based in Wilsonville, AL, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the introduction, teaching and advancement of adapted water skiing for children and adults. Annually from April to October, the organization provides thrilling experiences for people with disabilities through clinics and workshops. Trainees include people with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, post polio, kernicterus, acquired brain injuries, amputations and visual impairments. The organization strives to promote confidence and independence of skiers.
Adaptive Aquatics was founded in 1980 by Phil Martin, a pioneer of adaptive water skiing. Under his leadership the sport of water skiing for people with disabilities has grown tremendously and remains one of the longest standing programs of its kind in the country. The staff of Adaptive Aquatics has the certification to teach everyone from beginners to international competitors. Instructors are certified by the American Water Ski Association.
The program uses adaptive water skis, boats and vests. It is funded primarily by tax deductible donations from individuals, corporations and civic organizations. You can make a donation through the Adaptive Aquatics website. The Adaptive Aquatics website even offers information about similar programs around the country. For more information about the program call (205) 807-7519.
