When an injury leaves a soldier confined to a wheelchair, life changes. But that doesn't mean that athletics are no longer an option.
The games
From June 21 to 26, more than 600 veterans will gather in Dallas, Texas, to participate in the 2015 National Veterans Wheelchair Games, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reported. The games occur every summer and are open to veterans who receive care at a VA treatment center or medical facility and are confined to a wheelchair due to an amputation, spinal cord injury or certain neurological conditions.
"The Wheelchair Games is a great example of courage and athleticism," said Robert A. McDonald, secretary of the VA. "If you want to see grit, determination and some of the finest athletes on the planet, this week in Dallas is the place to do it. These veterans have overcome obstacles, they've trained, they've persevered, and now they're ready to compete on the world's stage."
Following veteran associations on social media can keep you updated about events for former soldiers.
According to the event website, the Wheelchair Games is put on by a partnership between the VA and the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
The website reported that former soldiers will take part in 18 events while supporting and mentoring new veterans in the process. The event is just as much about providing support and rehabilitation opportunities for participants as they are about competition. The VA reported that for many injured veterans, this is their first exposure to wheelchair sports.
The events include 9-ball, air guns, archery, basketball, boccia, bowling, handcycling, field events, motor rally, power soccer, quad rugby, slalom, softball, swimming, table tennis, track, trapshooting and weightlifting. There will be participants in attendance from nearly every state in the U.S., as well as England and Puerto Rico, the VA reported.
What is next
Registration has closed for participants, but volunteers and sponsors are still welcome to use the contact information on the event website to donate time or money to help make the Wheelchair Games possible.
The opening ceremony will be held at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Main Arena, the VA reported. Events will be held at the convention center and various other facilities throughout Dallas, including Victory Plaza, Southern Methodist University and Fair Park.
Members of the Dallas community are encouraged to come out and support the veteran athletes.