TeeJay has been an Angel City Sports athlete for nine years and first heard about the organization (ACS) at the 2015 Angel City Games. He acquired his disability in 2003, but years later realized he hadn’t yet taken an active role in managing his health.

Through Angel City Sports, he discovered the variety of sports he could try and choose which ones sparked his interest. Since then, TeeJay has been a great supporter and active participant in the clinics and the annual Games.

“Sport is a great way to connect with others, challenge yourself, and take control of your health. Anything can be difficult to deal with individually when you have a disability, but you learn that you can do it with a community and while playing sports.”

“I get to know some great people within the community who I now consider my friends. And it’s a bonus to see the younger generations growing up and finding their place in our world!”

When you ask TeeJay what ACS means to him, he replies, “Personal growth.” And if you’ve met TeeJay, you know and see that he loves trying new things, always wants to improve, and is very supportive of his fellow ACS athletes, encouraging them to do the same and supporting them along the way.

And proof of his commitment to trying new things and growing is in one of his goals for 2024:

“Starting this year, I plan to participate in a race every month from January to April.”

“By doing these races, I will regain control of my health and my body while trying to motivate others to join me. ACS and the Pasadena Tri teams have been a part of this by supporting my entry into the Pasadena Triathlon in March.”

Taylor loves sports, especially golf.

When Nolan and Sydney learned about their son Taylor’s limb difference, Sydney extensively researched communities that could guide them, provide support, and offer a sense of belonging. That’s how they found Angel City Sports.

In the summer of 2023, they attended their first Angel City Sports major event at USC: the Angel City Games.

Nolan shares, “We signed up without knowing what to expect and were blown away by the Angel City Games. What impressed us most was the athletics. My wife, my mother, my nephew, Taylor, and I were all amazed by the athletes’ talent. Suddenly, Taylor said, ‘They have nubbins like me.’ ‘Nubbin’ is what we’ve taught Taylor to call the difference in his arm above the elbow. When he said it out loud in front of all of us, I got really emotional because for the first time, I felt like he was making a connection with his left arm, something that hadn’t happened before.”

After the Angel City Games, Taylor began attending Angel City Sports’ monthly adaptive golf clinics at the Westchester Golf Course. Meeting Coach David, Angel City Sports’ golf director, as well as the other coaches and people who make these clinics possible, only deepened his appreciation for the organization. When Taylor goes golfing, he arrives excited, focused on the putting green, and eager to try new things, like practicing on the driving range. His skills continue to develop, and he impresses everyone who sees him.

Taylor’s goal is to not limit himself. He truly believes he can play any sport. He’s already excelling at golf, and Sydney and Nolan can envision him participating in soccer, baseball, basketball, swimming, and track and field as he grows up. They are thrilled that Angel City Sports can be a part of his journey.

Meet Miriam, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age one. Later, at 27, she was rediagnosed with a rare genetic condition: hereditary spastic paraplegia type 3a. She always walked with an atypical gait, but during her teens, moving around became increasingly difficult. Miriam feels fortunate to have grown up with four sisters who played sports; it motivated her to stay active as movement became much more challenging.

“Honestly, I think my goals were to be more like everyone else, rather than discovering and developing my own unique strengths—something I experienced when I entered the world of adaptive sports in 2021.” —Miriam

The first Angel City Sports event Miriam attended was the virtual Angel City Games during the pandemic. In 2021, she joined a Zoom swimming clinic led by Paralympian Tom Miazga, doing dryland training to prepare for when the pools reopened.

For Miriam, **“access to sports through Angel City means everyone has the opportunity to find a physical activity where they can learn and develop new skills, feel strong, and be part of a community of people who work hard and have fun. Among many other reasons, sports teach you to work with your body. That’s more challenging for a person with a disability, whether due to the nature of their condition or social barriers, or both, and that’s why I think it’s even more necessary.

I often felt like I was the only one, which discouraged me from participating in physical activities in the past. Literally, part of the ACS programs is figuring out how you can perform at your best with your disability. Everyone wants everyone to succeed, and there’s no doubt that’s possible at Angel City Sports.”**

The adaptive swimming clinic at the 2022 Angel City Games was the first time Miriam had worked with a swim coach, and she credits that experience as truly life-changing.

Now, one of Miriam’s goals is to qualify for the U.S. National Paralympic Swimming Championships by the end of 2025.

Max Rohn always knew he wanted to join the military. He saw it as an opportunity to travel and wanted to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, who served in World War II. While working as a lifeguard in high school, Max excelled at first aid and decided to enlist as a corpsman in the United States Navy.

On May 2, 2009, during his first combat deployment, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Rohn was serving with the 2nd Marine Headquarters Group in Fallujah, Iraq, when his vehicle was struck by an RKG-3 grenade. HM3 Rohn suffered severe damage to both legs and his right arm, and lost consciousness due to a traumatic brain injury caused by the blast. Max was transported to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he underwent 10 surgeries in an attempt to save his right leg. After two and a half years of limb-saving attempts, he made the difficult decision to amputate his right leg in August 2011 and retired from the U.S. Navy in March 2013. Max is also a recipient of the Purple Heart.

In the years since his injury, Max has accomplished many amazing things. He earned his bachelor’s degree in international politics from Pennsylvania State University and spent time in California training for track and field at the Olympic Training Center. There he also met his incredible wife, Tori, and they moved to California in 2023.

Since then, Max has participated in the Invictus Games, the Warrior Games, and the Parapan American Games, and is currently training to make the U.S. track and field team for the 2028 Los Angeles Games in the discus throw.

Most of Max’s hobbies and activities revolve around his love of adaptive sports, and through a friend, Paralympian Justin Phongsavanh, he discovered Angel City Sports. He has attended the Angel City Games since 2019 as an athlete, but he has also distinguished himself as a leader and coach for the next generation of adaptive and Paralympic athletes, volunteering at major Angel City events such as Youth Weekend, the Angel City Games, and Courage Weekend.

“Angel City Sports is the nation’s leading organization for adaptive sports. Their efforts to integrate the civilian, military, and first responder communities with disabilities into sports are among the best I have ever been involved in. There are many wounded warriors and injured first responders seeking a new purpose in life. ACS provides us with a path forward in our recovery process. Our shared experience as patients unites us on this journey, through participation in sports.”

Max’s story is one of courage and perseverance. He embodies the unwavering spirit of a warrior who continues to lead by example and serve others, both in the above and in his work as a member of the board of directors of America’s VetDogs, Warfighter Sports ambassador with Move United, and member of Team Semper Fi.

A U.S. Army veteran, Mark Patton sustained most of his injuries during his 20 years of active duty. These range from a reconstructed nose and three total knee replacements to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and numerous traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). A couple of years ago, he unexpectedly lost the ability to walk, seemingly as a result of trauma and his brain’s reaction. He was told he would never walk again, but people like Angel City Sports—and Mark himself—believe he CAN.

For Mark, adaptive sports gave him the ability to practice radical acceptance and embrace the opportunities ahead.

When he decided to attend the Angel City Games in the summer of 2025, he was extremely nervous. He had only previously participated in a winter adaptive sports event with the Wounded Warrior Project and had never tried the adaptive sports offered at the Angel City Games. His family encouraged him to overcome his nerves, and he did the hardest part: show up.

“I’m not sure I’d be here today if I hadn’t attended,” Mark shares.

“I felt alive again and started seeking out every possible opportunity in adaptive sports. I’m a big believer in the power of mindfulness as medicine, and adaptive sports are the only places where I truly feel present. I’ve regained my competitive spirit and I’m ready to take my athletic performance to the highest level possible.”

To U.S. Army veteran, Mark Patton sustained most of his injuries during his 20 years of active duty. These range from a reconstructed nose and three total knee replacements to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and numerous traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). A couple of years ago, he unexpectedly lost the ability to walk, apparently as a result of trauma and his brain’s reaction. He was told he would never walk again, but people like Angel City Sports—and Mark himself—believe he CAN.

For Mark, adaptive sports gave him the ability to practice radical acceptance and embrace the opportunities ahead.

When he decided to attend the Angel City Games in the summer of 2025, he was extremely nervous. He had only previously participated in a winter adaptive sports event with the Wounded Warrior Project and had never tried the adaptive sports offered at the Angel City Games. His family encouraged him to overcome his nerves, and he did the hardest part: show up.

“I’m not sure I’d be here today if I hadn’t attended,” Mark shares.

“I felt alive again and started seeking out every possible opportunity in adaptive sports. I’m a big believer in the power of mindfulness as medicine, and adaptive sports are the only places where I truly feel present. I’ve regained my competitive spirit and I’m ready to take my athletic performance to the highest level possible.”

Mackenzie fue la gerente de marketing de Angel City Sports durante los últimos 3 años y es dos veces paralímpica: en tenis en silla de ruedas en Londres (2012) y en baloncesto en silla de ruedas en Río (2016). Además, ganó dos medallas en los Juegos Parapanamericanos de 2011 en tenis en silla de ruedas. Decir que es talentosa dentro y fuera de la cancha es quedarse corto.

When asked about the power of adaptive sports, Mackenzie shares:

“Sports are important because they don’t just happen on a court, field, or track; they impact every aspect of life, especially for a person with a disability. They serve as a social space where people don’t judge you or ask ‘what happened to you?’ before even asking your name. Sports provide a safe space to learn from each other, fostering confidence, discipline, and teamwork. They are a tool for developing physical strength and making daily activities easier in a world that is often inaccessible. Sports can also be a catalyst for education and employment opportunities, opening up the world for people with disabilities.”

Mackenzie was able to attend her first Angel City Games in 2021 and was amazed by the number of people in the community who had never seen or experienced an accessible sport.

“It’s incredible to witness those first moments when people realize they can play and compete.”

“One of my favorite moments was introducing wheelchair basketball to a little girl trying it for the first time. Her mom was with her, and they had never seen any adapted sports before. It reminded me of how I started when I was 7 and how my parents used to take me to play. I feel honored to be able to be part of that journey for others now.”

“I am fully committed to making adapted sports accessible to everyone, and that’s why ACS means so much to me. It’s my opportunity to be part of something that has truly had a positive impact on my life. Opening doors for people with disabilities to have sporting opportunities—that’s what really matters.”

Joe Guintu, a California native, was vacationing in Hawaii in 2007, enjoying a surf lesson. At the end of the lesson, something didn’t feel right. Getting out of the water and heading for the stairs, he was shocked to find he couldn’t climb them, or even walk. What transpired in the hours, days, and weeks that followed, in the hospital and under the care of doctors, was paralysis from the waist down, identified as the rare surfer’s myelopathy. What he didn’t know at the time was that a path to adaptive sports lay in his future.

Fast forward to 2015, Joe had just returned from Australia, where he had begun participating in wheelchair sports like tennis and basketball. He was looking for programs in Southern California, and his search happened to coincide with the first Angel City Games. He was thrilled!

“It was incredible to be a part of the beginning of this movement in Southern California, and I felt the personal and community impact right from the start,” Joe shares.

“It’s very easy to take the easy way out and make (perfectly valid) excuses for not being active, especially given the difficulty of accessing equipment. Angel City Sports removes those barriers and makes access much easier. It’s very important for people with disabilities to stay active, as there are many positive health benefits and, conversely, many negative effects if they don’t.”

At the first Games, Joe focused on wheelchair basketball, but he also participated in complementary activities such as the opening ceremony and the awards presentation. For him, it was important to be at an event where, as he says, “people with disabilities were the main focus and not an afterthought. I felt like a star interacting with and learning from Paralympic athletes, and I’m still amazed at how close-knit and supportive this community is.”

As with any new experience, Joe was nervous, unsure how formal or competitive the event would be. “I’m an ‘average Joe’ (pun intended!), a regular guy who wants to stay active, but probably won’t compete at the highest level and is looking to be part of the community. The welcoming atmosphere, from founders Clayton and Ezra to the volunteers, was very comforting.”

After his first Games, and every time he attended an event, bringing family and friends, the energy and inspiration of the event and the attendees always brought him unexpected joy and a renewed passion for life and for others.

“At every event I’ve attended, there are moments, interactions, and connections that are simply magical. Like hearing someone who’s recently been injured say their life and career are over because they’re in a wheelchair, and being able to share my personal story and professional achievements and see them light up. Or hearing about a family who traveled for days to try a new sport, fell in love with it, and received their equipment right then and there. These moments that Angel City Sports creates are incredible and helped me get back into acting (thanks to connections within the ACS community), something I had left behind years ago. Being connected to the Angel City Sports community can give you a whole new perspective,” Joe shares.

For Joe, Angel City Sports is more than just sports. It’s a community for people with physical disabilities and their caregivers (whether parents, partners, or friends), where they can share experiences and emotions, from the challenges to the joy and fun of a new life filled with hope and community.

Although Joe still has moments when he takes the easy way out, having Angel City Sports in his life keeps him focused on his goals: staying active, building a routine for a healthy and well-rounded life, and continuing to strengthen the adaptive community. Joe is fully involved: he’s a participating athlete and now a member of the Angel City Sports board of directors. We are proud of his accomplishments and grateful for his commitment to the power of adaptive sports and his community.

Meet Jocelyn, an active, energetic, and confident six-year-old who isn’t afraid to try anything. She keeps her mom on her toes with new adventures, whether it’s trying something new or returning to her favorites, from WCMX to tennis, surfing, and more.

When you ask Jocelyn why she thinks sports are important for someone with a disability, she proudly replies, “Because it makes you feel like everyone else!” And we totally agree!

Jocelyn’s first official event with Angel City Sports (ACS) was in March 2023 at the Abilities Expo in the ACS sports experience zone. Shortly after, in June, she attended the Angel City Games at USC. At just five years old, Jocelyn was excited to try track and field events for the first time, and expectations were high, as her family watched various para-athletes on Instagram, TikTok, and vlogs.

After attending the Games, the experience opened her eyes and mind to a whole new world. She was even more impressed and motivated by all that is possible. Experiencing ACS track and field events and being coached by Paralympic athletes was, without a doubt, exhilarating.

During the summer of 2024, Jocelyn attended the Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children Cerebral Palsy Camp in partnership with ACS, as well as Rollette’s Experience. ACS was present at both events as a community partner, offering adaptive sports opportunities, and it was wonderful to see Jocelyn thrive and enjoy herself.

Her mother shares: “Having familiar ACS coaches and staff at these events makes Jocelyn feel very comfortable. Jocelyn was already very determined, but now she doesn’t let her physical disability stop her from pursuing anything. Her personality shines through, and her teachers and friends have noticed. As for sports, I never had her confidence when I was a kid… I envy her. It’s incredible to see what ACS and other athletes have inspired in her.”

When you ask Jocelyn what ACS means to her, she replies, “No one asks me questions about why I use a wheelchair or braces. They just want to play.” And play they do!

Angel City Sports is also a family experience. It has brought her family together in many ways, and her siblings love participating with her. Her grandparents and even the staff at her school are now showing interest, which makes sharing those moments even more special. Jocelyn and her family want to raise awareness about adaptive sports in their city, Santa Ana, and in the SAUSD school district.

“We have very few, if any, resources for those interested in adaptive sports. Many families within our school district have inquired about sports for their children, and I hope that by sharing Jocelyn’s story, they will be encouraged to attend an upcoming event.”

“As a family, we share all the incredible experiences that Jocelyn and her older brother Ernie have had with ACS to show that your child’s life doesn’t end because of a physical or cognitive disability. Just attend one event, and it will change your life,” says Jessica, Jocelyn’s mom.

“Adapted sports have no limits based on physical disability, age, or race. Anything is possible if you have the heart to try. You won’t be perfect, but with time and practice, you’ll be amazing no matter what. If your heart and mind are there, anything is possible.”

Thank you, Jocelyn and family, for showing us what is possible!

We can’t wait to see everything Jocelyn will accomplish.

Jason is a lifelong athlete and fitness advocate. In April 2019, during a snowboarding trip to Mammoth, California, he suffered a life-changing accident. He fractured 21 ribs and his L1 vertebra, spending three months in the hospital unable to move his arms or legs, followed by eight months of aquatic therapy to regain strength and mobility. Since his accident, Jason has limited mobility and uses a wheelchair.

He has remained committed to physical activity and initially participated in 5K and 10K races in his everyday wheelchair. During the pandemic, a friend and adaptive athlete from Angel City, Rob Balucas, introduced him to Angel City Sports and its equipment loan program, which enabled him to acquire a competition handcycle. He soon competed in the Pasadena Triathlon, took up rowing, and continued surfing. He has also added sports like tennis and pickleball to his impressive resume, and he’s giving back to the community by starting a program to teach children to swim.

Jason’s sporting experiences and adventures are centered on community and connection, something he considers vital for people with life-altering disabilities, such as a spinal cord injury.

“There is depression and hopelessness as you process and work through your recovery. But having opportunities to get outside, participate in adaptive sports, and be part of a group of peers is incredibly important for both physical and mental health.”

Thank you, Jason, for leading by example, helping others, and showing us the power of sport. Join first responders like Jason at Courage Weekend, October 14 and 15, to celebrate the adaptive athletes who are part of this incredible community of veterans and first responders.

Meet Isaac 

Isaac first heard about Angel City Sports throughout the Abilities Expo in Downtown Los Angeles back in 2022. 

Isaac has Hanhart Syndrome; he was born with no femurs on both legs and no humerus on the right arm. His left arm is fused with his elbow so he cannot bend his arm. He could walk with a brace and a walker with assistance but isn’t comfortable doing so. 

 “Before Isaac joined Angel City Sports, he was shy and not willing to participate,” says his mom Celene. “Since he started attending Angel City Sports, Isaac’s personality has changed, and he has a different outlook on achieving his sports goals in every clinic he attends. He learns more and gets better.” 

Through Angel City Sports, Isaac feels included and being part of a team is important because it teaches him that anything is possible. The sky’s the limit and there is no obstacle he cannot overcome. 

Meet Damon, a California native and the oldest of five siblings. As a child, he had a big heart and a deep love for football. At 14, he started at a new high school in September 1992 and made the Junior Varsity football team. On October 15 of that same year, after a game, he went out to eat with his uncle, and the vehicle they were in was rear-ended by another car traveling at high speed. That day changed his life. He suffered a high spinal cord injury and became a C7 quadriplegic. Damon had very little use in his hands and arms and could barely feel anything from the neck down. It was a terrifying experience for a 14-year-old.

In 1993, Damon was discharged from the hospital and returned to high school, where the world’s perception of disability was a harsh dose of reality. He earned top marks in PE for running laps and shooting hoops, but he wanted more. His friends participated in the Watts Games every summer in disciplines like track and field, flag football, and basketball, but there was nothing for him. He stayed on the sidelines watching his friends.

In 2000, Damon met Michael Garafola and Alvin Malave, two adaptive athletes and now coaches at Angel City Sports, who introduced him to handcycling. At that time, adaptive sports were just starting to gain momentum. In 2015, he attended the first Angel City Games at UCLA, where he tried track and field and archery, which opened his world to new possibilities. He needed an outlet and something to inspire him… adaptive sports at Angel City Sports was the answer.

Today, you can find Damon at the monthly adaptive golf clinics, helping to recruit more people to join the adaptive sports community, and coaching archery at Angel City Sports’ main events. Thanks to the support of the Angel City Sports Youth Council, Damon was awarded a scholarship that will help him pursue his Paralympic dream as a Paralympic archer for Team USA at the LA28 Games.

Cristian Lira began his journey with Angel City Sports at the 2021 Angel City Games, just two months after his amputation and while recovering from a hit-and-run accident in 2020. His prosthetist at the time, John Narmontas, handed him a flyer for the Games and told him, “Just go!” John’s encouragement gave Cristian the motivation to attend.

On the final day of the Games, Cristian arrived at the LA High School field and was greeted by Camille Mahlknecht and the Frech family with a smile and a hug. Shortly after, Cristian joined gold medalist Annie Flood for a game of sitting volleyball. He also learned to throw the javelin with Justin Phongsavanh!

“I was once a complete novice athlete, unfamiliar with the world of adaptive sports. After nearly two years with Angel City Sports as an athlete, volunteer, intern, and now a full-time employee, I feel that our community is a safe space for everyone, including those with acquired or congenital disabilities who want to find their sport. I am grateful for our community of athletes, volunteers, families, and friends, and at every event and clinic, I am reminded of how incredibly strong it is. Seeing someone make their first basket in a sports wheelchair or put on soccer goggles for the visually impaired and kick a ball is an amazing feeling every time. ACS has given me and thousands of others the confidence and community to excel as athletes and leaders, with the goal of supporting and empowering people with disabilities.”

At the same time, Cristian co-founded a support group for Spanish-speaking amputees, which he has been working with for the past two years. He also began modeling and acting, and currently trains in sports such as amputee soccer and javelin throwing.

Meet Anna, who spent her entire life competing in elite, high-performance sports programs in both soccer and rugby. Sport was so intertwined with her identity that when she acquired a disability at age 22, she felt she had lost everything. She could no longer participate in the sports to which she had dedicated so much time and which were also her source of community, belonging, and self-esteem.

Anna is a multiple cancer survivor and was originally diagnosed when she was 8 years old. Her illness and the long-term effects of treatments caused her disabilities. She has hearing loss and a neurological movement disorder called dystonia, which causes hypertonia and dyskinesia, affecting all the muscles on the right side of her body. She also has multiple learning difficulties, which made school and formal education very challenging. She always found a sense of belonging in sport, as it was the only thing that came naturally to her.

“Access to sports changed my life. When I acquired my disability, I felt very lost, alone, and angry. I thought I had lost sports forever, which triggered a kind of identity crisis because so much of who I was was tied to being an athlete. No longer being able to play on the mainstream teams I was on instantly changed my day-to-day social interactions. I lost my community and my sense of normalcy. Regaining access to sports pulled me out of a very dark place.

Participation in sports can also be very formative during childhood. Sports teach us to face challenges, cope with failure, persevere through difficulties, and build relationships and trust with those around us. These are life skills that carry over into our daily lives, throughout our entire lives.”

Alvin Malave is a kind, dedicated, passionate, and talented individual, leading the way as a role model in adaptive sports both on and off the field. If you’ve ever attended an adaptive sports clinic or event, you’ve likely met this wonderful person.

Originally from Los Angeles, Alvin grew up playing many sports, but basketball and football were his favorites. At 22, Alvin was struck by an out-of-control vehicle, resulting in a spinal cord injury. Less than a year later, he was introduced to adaptive sports by attending a wheelchair basketball practice, where he first met adaptive athletes and discovered a new path to rehabilitate his body and mind. Alvin returned the following week ready to learn and compete, and he hasn’t stopped since. He regained his mobility and ability to play the sports he loved, but he says that finding a community, a sense of belonging, and purpose was the most impactful aspect.

Alvin has been a driving force in adaptive sports for over 20 years as an athlete, coach, and community leader. From helping the Angel City Sports LA Rams wheelchair football team win their first championship in 2022, to leading the LA Clippers Chairmen wheelchair basketball team to their first Division II National Championship in 2023, to coaching the Angel City Sports women’s basketball team to become a national contender in just two seasons, Alvin’s passion and dedication are unparalleled. In 2022, his outstanding contributions, leadership, mentorship, and relentless pursuit of his goals earned him The Hartford Human Achievement Award at the Angel City Games.

We are incredibly grateful to have Alvin’s compassion and expertise as our Program Manager and are excited to see him drive sports forward year-round at Angel City Sports.

Alanna acquired her disability in her 20s when she became seriously ill with the flu virus. This resulted in a rare neurological condition that causes paralysis and progressive muscle weakness, contractures, spasticity, chronic pain, and a weakened immune system. This completely changed her life. Learning to navigate the world again wasn’t easy, but adaptive sports became her lifeline. Sport gave her back a sense of independence and purpose, and increased her ability to function and maintain her strength.

One of the most difficult aspects for Alanna has been figuring out how to adapt equipment so she can participate without being able to use her hands to grip it. It’s a challenge that never completely disappears, but she has learned to be creative and keep finding ways to make it work.

Alanna shares: “Angel City Sports has been incredible throughout this whole process. They have supported me every step of the way and created a space where everyone, regardless of ability, is encouraged to come out and play. Their belief that sport truly is for everyone has meant so much to me.”

Alanna first heard about Angel City Sports when it was just starting out, but at the time she lived on the East Coast. There weren’t many adaptive sports programs available where she lived, so she always followed what Angel City Sports was doing from afar. When she moved back to Los Angeles, she was very excited to finally get involved. About a month after returning, a friend invited Alanna to an adaptive golf event where she had the opportunity to meet many of the people involved with Angel City Sports. After that, she couldn’t wait to do more.

“Sport is incredibly important for people with disabilities because it offers so much more than just physical activity. Sport gives us a sense of freedom, confidence, and community—things that can be hard to find after a life-changing injury or diagnosis. For me, sport has been a way to reconnect with my body, to feel strong and capable again, even though I move differently now. It has helped me set goals, overcome challenges, and rediscover joy. I’m more active and have participated in more sports since acquiring my disability, doing things I never imagined possible!”

Alanna also shares that through sport, she learns resilience, discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving—qualities that directly translate to finding and succeeding in a job. Competing and training also strengthen self-expression and communication skills, essential when navigating professional environments that aren’t always designed with accessibility in mind.

For her, adapted sports have been a fundamental part of rebuilding not only her strength but also her confidence in what she can contribute. They remind her that she can adapt, lead, and persevere, no matter the challenge. That mindset has helped her tremendously in pursuing opportunities and believing in her ability to thrive in any environment.

After attending her first Angel City Sports event, she felt inspired, excited, and energized. This was the first new sport (golf) she had tried since retiring and selling her horse, after years of competing internationally as a para-equestrian. Initially, she hadn’t planned on getting involved in another sport, but trying golf through ACS completely changed that. Discovering how much she enjoyed it reignited her curiosity and competitive spirit.

Her goal in the coming months is to continue improving her performance in her new sport, para-fencing, with the aim of competing at the highest level in the next North American Cup in February 2026.

Angel City Sports plays a vital role in helping her achieve this goal, especially given the many barriers to participation.

Transportation can be one such barrier for people with disabilities participating in para-sports. Many cannot simply get in a car and drive to practices or events, and public transportation is not always accessible, reliable, or readily available near para-sports facilities. Adaptive transportation services often require booking well in advance, can be unpredictable in their schedules, and make training planning difficult.

For athletes who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices, transportation can also be expensive, especially if specialized vehicles or accessible transportation services are required. Sometimes, the effort involved in simply getting to the venue can be overwhelming, even before training begins. And when traveling to competitions or events, flying adds another layer of stress. There’s always the fear that an airline might damage or lose a mobility device, which is not only costly but can also leave a person unable to move independently.

For Alanna, having reliable transportation is key to being able to participate or train consistently and stay involved in the community. Without it, even the most motivated athlete can find it difficult to participate regularly in adaptive sports or reach their full potential.

This Giving Tuesday, Angel City Sports is excited to launch the “LIFT OFF” Athlete Travel Fund. This fund will support athletes like Alanna in their participation in adaptive sports by helping them attend major ACS events and compete at the local, regional, and national levels when transportation costs are a barrier.

“Having transportation support through a travel fund would make an incredible difference for me and so many other adaptive athletes. Competing and attending events like those hosted by Angel City Sports are opportunities to grow, connect, and push our limits, but transportation costs and logistics are often the biggest barriers,” Alanna shares.

For Alanna, reliable transportation means freedom and the ability to perform, train consistently, and proudly represent the adaptive community. It would eliminate much of the stress involved in coordinating accessible travel, especially when specialized vehicles or assistance are required. For athletes who travel by air, it would also reduce the financial and emotional burden of protecting and repairing mobility equipment, which is often at risk of damage during transit.

This year, at her first National Championship, she won a silver medal in sabre, a great achievement and a testament to all her hard work. She also placed among the top 6 at a recent North American Cup in all three weapons: épée, foil, and sabre.

We are so proud of Alanna and everything she is accomplishing. She has fallen in love with para-fencing, and we are excited to see how far her talent and leadership will take her within the para-sports movement.

Support this Giving Tuesday — Give the gift of sport to support athletes like Alanna.