Sportable and NOVA of Virginia Aquatics are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership that makes competitive swimming accessible and inclusive. The new program will provide adaptive swim instruction and competitive opportunities for Sportable members at the state-of-the-art NOVA Aquatics Center – Regency. Athletes with physical disabilities or visual impairments who have basic swimming skills and possess the potential to be independent in the water are encouraged to register now at Sportable.org.
“The new partnership between Sportable and NOVA is a game-changer,” commented Hunter Leemon, Sportable CEO. “We are thrilled to partner with a like-minded organization and to unite in our commitment to creating more inclusive and accessible swimming opportunities in our community. Together, we are not only providing adaptive athletes with more chances to excel in the pool, but we are also breaking down barriers and redefining what is possible for athletes of all abilities.”
“NOVA’s mission is to be the premier swim team in the country,” said Leigh Peterson, NOVA CEO. “We cannot reach that goal unless our USA swimming club team, our Master’s team, and our lessons program include opportunities for all athletes. We are extremely excited to partner with Sportable to offer entry and access into all of our programs for para athletes of all ages and abilities. We believe that together, NOVA and Sportable, have the resources and the professional expertise to ultimately become the East Coast hub of Paralympic swimming.”
Expanded Para Swimming Programs for Adaptive Athletes Will Be Offered This Fall
Led by NOVA’s USA Swimming Certified and Certified Para Swimming Coaches (PSCC), the initial para swimming program will be held on Thursdays, September 14-November 2, 2023. Sessions will focus on strengthening swimming skills, increasing comfort in the water, learning stroke technique, and improving overall endurance. The cutting-edge NOVA Aquatics Center – Regency opened in September 2021 and features an eight-lane, 50-meter pool and two 25-yard warm water pools.
“I am passionate about helping athletes pursue inclusivity, skill development and boundless achievement,” added Matt Bailey, NOVA Coach and Program Liaison. “This partnership with Sportable will offer unparalleled support, training, and advancement for all athletes in the pool. Together NOVA and Sportable have the opportunity to empower athletes and make waves in the world of para-swimming.”
The new partnership with NOVA complements Sportable’s existing Aquatics Program which is designed for youth athletes, athletes with limited motor function, and adaptive athletes interested in learning to swim in a therapeutic pool setting. For more information about the NOVA para swimming program or Sportable’s aquatics program, visit Sportable.org or contact Tyler Rowe, Sportable Program Coordinator, at tyler@sportable.org or 804-340-2991.
About Sportable
For more than 18 years, Sportable has created opportunities and transformed lives through sport for individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments. The non-profit organization provides sporting opportunities to more than 400 athletes of all ages by offering competitive and recreational adaptive sports programs year-round. By fostering a fun, inclusive, competitive, and accessible environment, Sportable transforms the lives of athletes and frees them to see beyond their disabilities, enhances their peer relationships and helps them to reach their personal finish line. To make an impact today, visit Sportable.com/donate.
About NOVA
Since 1987, NOVA has provided top-notch swim training for our community’s youth. What started as a small 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization to address the need for a structured, year-round swimming program has evolved into a national powerhouse. Instilling the values of discipline, leadership, goal setting, teamwork, and social responsibility have been fundamental to NOVA’s success, helping to create great kids as well as great swimmers. NOVA continues to be a leader in promoting water safety, healthy lifestyles, and the life-long sport of swimming through superb programming, coaching and community engagement.
