GET INVOLVED
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
SportAbility offers individual or group ‘Try It’ opportunities for all of our sports.
The opportunity and structure for a Try It differs with each sport (see each sport description below).
Para Ice Hockey
Para ice hockey, also known as para hockey or sledge hockey, is a fast-paced adaptive sport played on ice, where athletes sit in specially designed sleds. Players move around on the ice using two sticks, which have a spike-end for pushing and a blade-end for shooting.
A Try It event for para hockey may include an introduction to equipment, basic skating and stick-handling skills, and a short scrimmage for participants to experience the game firsthand. On ice and off ice options available.
Power Soccer
Power Soccer is a fast-paced, competitive sport for people with disabilities using power chairs. It is a modified version of able-bodied soccer, where special foot guards attached to the power chairs are used to hit an oversized soccer ball. Daily chairs or Strike Force chairs are welcome in all programs, camps, and tournaments.
A Try It session for power soccer is specifically for individuals using wheelchairs and includes the installation of a power soccer guard onto the front of the wheelchair and an introduction to the sport. Our team will help determine whether a guard can be properly fitted to your chair.
Boccia
Boccia is a precision ball sport similar to bocce, designed for athletes with physical disabilities. Players score points by tossing or rolling their coloured ball closest to the target white ball called the jack. It is very adaptable for people with a variety of disabilities.
A Try It event for boccia may involve an introduction to the rules, hands-on practice with throwing techniques, and a casual game to develop strategy and accuracy.
Here are the steps involved to book a community engagement session with SportAbility:
- Explore Our Offerings – Review the examples below to learn about the different Try It opportunities available.
- Submit an Application – Complete the application form to let us know what you’re looking for.
- Review & Response – A SportAbility team member will review your request and contact you within 10 business days. If you haven’t heard back after this period, please contact us at info@sportabilitybc.ca.
- Confirm Your Booking – Our team will work with you to schedule a session, develop your activity, and provide a quote for the session cost. Once your session is approved, payment must be made in advance to finalize your booking.
- Sign the Waiver – Our team will send you a waiver that all participants must complete before taking part in a session.
What does collaborating with SportAbility look like?
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US:
- A fun and engaging session delivered by a trained facilitator that is tailored to the needs of your group.
- Access to adaptive sporting equipment for the duration of the session. Long-term equipment rental can be requested following the session for a low annual fee of $100.
- The opportunity to learn about existing adaptive sport programs and offerings in your area, as well as volunteer and coaching opportunities.
WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU:
- Waivers – Ensure all participants have signed waivers before the session.
- Membership – The organizer must hold an active SportAbility Supporter Membership (free of charge).
- Venue – The requesting organization is responsible for securing the Try It session space. For on ice para hockey sessions please reach out for support.
- Promotion & Recruitment – The organization is responsible for promoting the session and recruiting participants. SportAbility can assist by sharing promotional graphics on social media, in our monthly newsletter, and/or sharing information out to our network.
- Fees & Financial Considerations – Depending on the Try It session, a fee may apply to cover facility rental, staff and/or transportation costs.
- Fees can be paid as a donation, eligible for a tax receipt.
- If cost is a barrier, groups that serve individuals with disabilities may request a fee waiver.
Who Can Participate in a Try It Session?
Our Try It sessions are designed to introduce new athletes, coaches, and volunteers to our sports. However, anyone is welcome to submit a request and we will reach out when availability allows.
Check out some of our past events!
Boccia Try It at Neuromotion Clinic
SportAbility partnered with Neuromotion Vancouver to host a two-hour introductory boccia session for clients and staff, providing all necessary equipment and instruction. Participants learned the fundamentals of boccia, including game rules, throwing techniques, and strategy, in a supportive and engaging environment. Neuromotion provided the venue and gathered participants, ensuring an accessible setting.
Para Hockey Try It with Barber Prosthetics Clinic
SportAbility hosted a one-hour para hockey session at the Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex for staff and clients of Barber Prosthetics Clinic, providing a unique opportunity to experience the sport. Participants received an overview of the fundamentals and safety, were led through some on-ice drills, and finished with a fun scrimmage. The session was led by BC provincial para hockey players and coaches, who shared their expertise, provided hands-on instruction, and offered insight into the sport’s competitive and recreational opportunities.
Other examples include:
- Professional development presentations for staff and/or educators
- Information booths at community fairs and/or expos
- Running a station as part of a multisport event
Contact Us
Subscribe to our newsletter
