Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital's Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp Wraps Up Transformative Week of Sports, Confidence and Connection
Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital recently concluded another successful Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp, bringing together youth with physical disabilities for a week of adapted sports and recreation at the UCSB Recreation Center.
Held July 13-16, the camp welcomed approximately 35 campers and 75 volunteers. Guided by trained coaches and volunteers, many of whom use wheelchairs themselves, campers built confidence, developed new skills and formed meaningful connections.
Campers ages 6 to 21 participated in a wide range of activities, including wheelchair basketball, rugby, hand cycling, SCUBA diving, swimming, tennis, racquetball, boccia, pickleball, indoor rock climbing, an indoor ropes course and sled hockey.
Since its founding in 1986, the Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp has helped young people with physical disabilities discover their strengths, build independence and experience the benefits of teamwork and physical activity. Hosted by Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital, it remains the only program of its kind on the Central Coast and attracts participants from across California. The camp is offered free of charge thanks to generous support from the Foundation for Cottage Rehabilitation & Goleta Valley Cottage Hospitals (FCR&GVCH) and community donors.
"For some campers, this is their first opportunity to try these sports in a supportive environment designed around their abilities," said René Van Hoorn, Manager of Community Programs at Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital and camp director. "The confidence they build during the week often extends far beyond camp and into other areas of their lives."
Throughout the week, campers participated in activities designed to foster independence and social connection. Many return year after year, developing friendships and skills that continue long after camp concludes. Some former campers have even returned as volunteers and mentors, helping inspire the next generation of participants.
Cottage Health President and CEO Scott Wester visited the camp during the week to meet with campers, volunteers and staff and witness the program's impact on local youth and families.
For campers and families alike, the week serves as a reminder that physical limitations do not define potential.
Learn more about supporting the Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp and other programs through the Foundation for Cottage Rehabilitation & Goleta Valley Cottage Hospitals at cottagehealth.org/fcrgvch.
