Athletes with Disabilities Program

Athletes with Disability Program (AWD)

Artistic Swimming (also known as Synchronized Swimming) at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence, and enhances the quality of life for many athletes with disabilities and special needs. Artistic Swimming is conducive to many disabilities due to the buoyancy effects of the water, which makes it easier for most people with physical limitations to participate. The comfort of the water and ease of transition to different levels also helps swimmers with intellectual disabilities and special needs. If a person with a disability or special needs are able to and can swim, then they can do artistic swimming

Our hope is to build relationships with local groups that serve communities with disabilities and special needs, so that we can be a club where all who could benefit can have access to practice, performance, and competition opportunities.

All abilities, disabilities, special needs, and genders are welcome! Currently, there are swimmers with the following conditions participating in Artistic (synchro) programs worldwide: Amputees, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Downs Syndrome, Developmental Disabilities, Neurological Disabilities, Brachial Plexus Disabilities, CMT, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, MS, Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Spina Bifida, Paralysis, Erbs Palsy, Sensory Impairments (Visual/Auditory), Cognitive Disabilities, and Other Physical Disabilities (seen and unseen).

Please Note: we are not a therapy/rehabilitative program, nor are our coaches trained physical therapists. We accept mid to high-functioning swimmers with impairments who can swim unassisted and are able to comprehend pool safety.