World Wheelchair Sports

About World Wheelchair Sports

Founded in 1990, World Wheelchair Sports (WWS) is a small but effective non-profit organization based in Eugene, Oregon. It's mission is to help those with mobility impairments discover independence by providing outdoor recreational experiences and competitive athletic opportunities. More specifically, our goals are: To promote the concept that physical fitness is essential for everyone; To facilitate independent movement for all people with disabilities; To provide outdoor fitness opportunities for people with disabilities; To promote and improve the skills of athletes with disabilities; To help wheelchair users access a lifestyle that is as active as possible. World Wheelchair Sports is founded, organized and run by people with disabilities. Many of our members are young people who were active in sports and athletics before a traumatic injury made using a wheelchair a necessity. Others were born with disabling conditions or are older persons who have suffered from a stroke, amputation or arthritis. Whatever the nature of their physical challenge, they discover through our programs the excitement and exhilaration of independent movement. For many of our sailing program participants for example, there is a notable increase in self-esteem and confidence when they find themselves independently on the water along with able-bodied sailors. Several of our junior wheelchair racing alumni have gone on to win Olympic and Paralympic medals and set world and national records. Participation in these healthy activities is often a catalyst for many other positive improvements in the quality of life. Since our founding, our programs include advocacy, organizing competitions (such as adaptive events at the Prefontaine Classic, the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials) and the annual Oregon Wheelchair Track Championships show, racing camps, fitness clinics, outdoor adventures, sports expos and junior sport camps.

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