Sportable, Central Virginia’s premier adaptive sports club, is proud to announce a new partnership with First Tee of Greater Richmond to make golf accessible and inclusive for individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments. Supported by the Virginia State Golf Association (VSGA) and Stand Up and Play Foundation, a new pilot program will provide eight weeks of adaptive golf instruction at the Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range at the First Tee – Greater Richmond’s downtown golf facility. Individuals with disabilities who are ambulatory or use a wheelchair are encouraged to register now at Sportable.org.
“There has been quite a demand for adaptive golf among our Sportable members and we are thrilled to team up with First Tee – Greater Richmond to offer a new adaptive golf program,” commented Hunter Leemon, Sportable Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to partner with like-minded organizations like First Tee, VSGA, and Stand Up and Play Foundation who join our commitment to creating more inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities in our community.”
Led by First Tee’s instructors, the program will focus on introducing individuals with disabilities to golf with lessons taking place on the driving range. Over eight weeks, participants will progress to playing a round of golf at the end of the program. The program is open to beginners and experienced golfers and equipment will be provided if needed.
“We are honored to work with Sportable, the VSGA, and Stand Up and Play Foundation to create this accessible and inclusive golf program,” said Brent Schneider, First Tee – Greater Richmond Chief Executive Officer. “Our vision at First Tee – Greater Richmond is to strengthen the character of our community, and this collaborative partnership is a perfect illustration of that commitment.”
“The mission of the VSGA is to promote and serve golf in Virginia, and supporting the work that Sportable and the First Tee – Greater Richmond are doing aligns directly with our mission,” added Matt Smiley, VSGA Executive Director. “These clinics will make the game available to both new and existing adaptive golfers and help make the game more accessible and inclusive for this important community of athletes. We hope this is only the first step and look forward to growing our support of adaptive golfers in the future.”
“Empowering individuals with adaptive needs to stand up and play golf is a game-changer for their physical and emotional well-being,” said Angelica Amador Jasper of Stand Up and Play Foundation. “We’re thrilled to support this initiative!”
For more information about Adaptive Golf, visit Sportable.org or contact Tyler Rowe, Sportable Senior Program Coordinator, at tyler@sportable.org or 804-340-2991.
