Students gain hands-on adapted PE experience

Students in the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program had a unique opportunity to experience adapted sports so they can better serve their future students who have such needs.

On March 23, the Houston County Sharks adapted sports coaches and a leader from the American Association of AdaptED Sports Programs brought their team wheelchairs to allow UNG students to play football and basketball in them. This provided perspective for the future educators on both the challenges some students face and the way they, as future physical education teachers, can make adaptations to serve all students.

"It was a lot more challenging than I thought. It was hard to keep control of a wheelchair while playing a sport. It made me realize how talented students are who play in wheelchairs," said Cora Pickett, a junior from Covington, Georgia. "It made me realize new things I can use for my students who need lessons modified. It also gave me contacts who can help me make those adaptations."

Christy Jones, director of outreach and training for the American Association of AdaptED Sports Programs, was grateful to be able to share her expertise and the wheelchairs with UNG students. Houston County Sharks coaches Dr. Jeffrey Martin and Jaqueline Randall brought the wheelchairs and assisted students.

"It's eye-opening for the students, and it's great experience for me," Jones said. "I'm learning from them, as well, and taking that information to other places. It's always a wonderful learning experience for us."

Rodriquez Thomas, a junior from Albany, Georgia, said the adapted sports day with his fellow PETE students felt even more personal because he has a grandchild with autism and a grandchild who has cerebral palsy.

"I can adapt the same sports concepts for students who may have disabilities or aren't able to walk. To have these tools to help kids still live out their passion is amazing," Thomas said. "It helps us understand what these kids are dealing with and how much courage they have to participate in these adapted sports. It's not for the faint of heart."

Brook Shurley, senior lecturer in the PETE program, said the adapted physical education day was a great way for her students to learn about an important topic.

"This experience allowed our students to gain a deeper understanding of inclusive teaching strategies and the impact adapted physical activity can have on students and athletes," Shurley said. "Actively participating in this event gave our students the opportunity to see adapted physical education in practice. This experience helped them better understand how to create meaningful, inclusive physical activity opportunities for all students."

Warren Caputo, associate professor and teacher education prep coordinator, also expressed gratitude.

"I am so thankful to the Houston Sharks and their coaches for partnering with UNG on this event, and I so appreciate Professor Shurley coordinating this event for the students in her adapted physical education class," Caputo said. "Providing students unique and fun learning opportunities is so valuable."