Southwest Wheelchair Athletic Association

Overview

The Southwest Wheelchair Athletic Association (SWAA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing sports competitions for individuals with physical disabilities. It operates as a regional organization under Move United, covering the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. The organization is structured as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Mission and Activities

SWAA focuses on enhancing the lives of individuals with physical disabilities by offering a platform for participation in various sports. The organization emphasizes the importance of athletic involvement in promoting psychological well-being and overall development for its participants. Key sports include track and field, which is a major part of their program, as well as other adaptive sports such as powerlifting and swimming, among others.

Events and Programs

SWAA organizes and participates in several significant events, including track and field competitions and other adaptive sports meets. They also support initiatives like the Move United Hartford Competition Series, which includes events across multiple disciplines. The organization places a strong emphasis on educating coaches to ensure high-quality support for athletes.

Impact and Community Involvement

Through its activities, SWAA aims to foster inclusivity by enabling athletes with physical disabilities to participate alongside their able-bodied peers in middle school and high school sports. This includes initiatives to provide necessary equipment, such as field chairs, to support integration. SWAA encourages community involvement through donations and volunteer support to help carry out its mission effectively.