WASA Hosts Multi-Day Adaptive Sports Clinic for Injured Veterans at MSOE
On October 8–9, WASA welcomed 11 veterans from across the country for a powerful adaptive sports clinic in Milwaukee, hosted in partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project. The event highlighted the transformative impact of adaptive sports, giving participants the chance to engage in wheelchair rugby, wheelchair lacrosse, and sled hockey.
We extend our deepest thanks to the Men’s Hockey Team from Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), whose hands-on support on the ice and behind the scenes made a lasting impression. Their commitment to helping athletes in sleds and coordinating equipment was truly appreciated.
Special thanks to Nicole Entrup and Mike Richards from Wounded Warrior Project for their collaboration and leadership in bringing this event to life. We’re also incredibly grateful to our dedicated WASA team: Coach Caroline, Manager Sam, and Dr. Uihlein for their support on the ice; Mike Zvara and family for leading wheelchair lacrosse; and Tony Sabel for his work with wheelchair rugby.
Finally, thank you to the many volunteers and WASA supporters who made this experience meaningful for every veteran involved. Your energy, care, and teamwork made all the difference!
Maria Edwards (Navy):
"Wisconsin Adaptive sports Associations is amazing. Their heart felt caring and understanding to veterans with disabilities was amazing. I got the opportunity to try new sports with no judgment and they had so much patience. Sled hockey was a brand new experience for me and they had no hesitation to help me up anytime I fell over. They were very motivating and made feel included during every event. Thank you WASA for all your support!"
Allison Smith USAF, SSgt (Retired)
"Being able to attend the adaptive sports clinic with WASA and the Wounded Warrior Project was truly such a rewarding experience. After getting out, I struggled trying to find a passion or purpose. I felt alone and that my diagnosis was a setback. I quickly realized this community is what helps the most throughout my healing journey. The other warriors you get to meet, the staff and coaches that dedicate and invest their time in you. Those are the valuable moments and you get to try sports you never saw yourself doing whether they are outside your comfort zone or not. Everyone is very knowledgeable and helpful and I would recommend this clinic to anyone who wants to try something new. I can’t express how grateful I am for WASA and the university students that came out to help. I already started looking up sled hockey teams and wheelchair lacrosse teams in my area because trying those sports were not only fun to play but you’re surrounded by other athletes from all over and you can’t help but have the biggest smile on your face. Being a part of the adaptive sports community for a couple years now, I realize what a positive impact they have on myself and others. That we are stronger and more than we think and never to sell ourselves short due to a medical diagnosis/illness. We are capable and I want to continue to make others aware of how crucial and important these programs and sports are to help you get better both mentally and physically. I cannot wait to take what I learned and show others. Adaptive sports made me realize that I am not alone and I don’t have to fave my struggles alone. So I would like to express my deepest gratitude to WASA, MSOE, and WWP for making this clinic happen. I hope to attend more in the future and be an advocate for others in order to spread awareness and importance of how much of a positive impact these clinics have on mental and physical health. I will never forget it. Thank you again."
