EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES & POWERFUL EXPERIENCES
Back in the Game Announcement:
For the last year, Back in the Game has targeted individuals with a SCI in hopes to form a community for those with similar lived experiences and will continue to do so. In addition to serving as a safe space for those with SCI, Back in the Game would like to expand to include individuals who are existing Back in the Game Members and those who are newly injured, adjusting to disability, or interested in becoming more active through adaptive sport and recreation for the first time. This adjustment is being made so that Back in the Game can be more inclusive for all who are interested. Exciting updates that come along with this revision include expanding our mentorship, educational opportunities, and offering a social membership. If you are interested in joining the Back in the Game program or want to learn more about what this program has to offer as well as join our Back in the Game Newsletter, please complete the interest form below or contact us at ericawilson@wasa.org
APRIL: Movement
April is Stress Awareness Month! WASA is highlighting simple, effective ways to manage stress and support your overall well-being. Stress is something we all experience—regardless of ability or life circumstances—and finding healthy ways to cope is essential.
One powerful outlet is movement. Participating in adaptive sports and recreation not only helps reduce stress, but also creates opportunities to build confidence, boost mood, and connect with a supportive community of peers.
Explore the CDC article below for more strategies and tools to help you manage stress and prioritize your well-being this month and beyond.
HIGHLIGHT!!!
Inside scoop from Christina (Ripp) Schwab: Team USA Head Coach, Paris Paralympic Games - Silver Medalists, 3x Paralympic Gold Medalist Athlete, & WASA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Athlete on how she manages stress through yoga:
“I sought out the practices of yoga and meditation in 2020. During this time, there were so many unknowns, and I knew I needed to move my body and calm my nervous system. So, with the help of my friend and mentor, Laia, we explored what I was able to do in the physical side of yoga. This was a big learning process for me, and my mentor consistently reminded me that yoga does not have to look a certain way. Yoga is so much more than perfect poses. Throughout this journey I found out I am capable of way more than I thought, and props are my best friends. By props I mean blocks, blankets, pillows, extra mats, whatever works best for your body. And while getting movement and mastering poses were my initial goal, I found the biggest benefits to my overall wellbeing were through meditation and breath-work that are built into practicing yoga.
I’ve since traveled the world with my mat, and every time I come back to it, I am reminded that practicing is a great way to stay present and to control what I can control. There is never a time I regret taking time to practice. Being present in our bodies and aligning with our breath, with or without movement, is enough”
See below a picture of Christina’s current set up
Group Fitness Nights
WASA is excited to offer some open gym opportunities on Mondays this Summer at Wilson Elementary School in Wauwatosa.
When: Mondays between June 15th to August 6th from 6:00-8:00pm.
Where: Wilson Elementary School (1060 Glenview Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213)
Check out Independence First: Back in the Game has recently partnered with Independence First to enhance peer support opportunities for individuals aged 18 and older. Please refer to the flyer below for additional details and contact ericawilson@wasa.org prior to attending and RSVP’ing with Independence First.
Peer Mentor Support
Interested in peer support? Our mentorship program offers a meaningful way to connect with individuals who share similar lived experiences. Mentors can provide encouragement, perspective, and a trusted space to navigate the day-to-day challenges that may come with adjusting to life with a disability. Click the link below so we can match you with one of the five amazing mentors we have through WASA.
Interested in becoming a peer mentor? A mentor in the Back in the Game program serves as a supportive guide for new members as they explore adaptive sports and recreation opportunities. Mentors share their lived experience, offer encouragement, and help participants feel welcomed and connected within the community. They may answer questions, provide insight on programs or activities, and help new members navigate their first experiences. Click the link below to apply to become a mentor for the Back in the Game Program!
UPCOMING GROUP EVENTS/OUTINGS
