Jocelyn

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.