Adaptive Outdoor Sports in Michigan

When it comes to pursuing outdoor activities, people with disabilities may require modifications in terms of equipment, terrain or guidance to adapt to their unique needs. The concept of adaptive sports was first organized following World War II to provide disabled soldiers with a new form of physical and mental rehabilitation, most notably with the launch of the Paralympics in 1948.

Michigan’s abundant natural resources make it an ideal landscape to invite people of all abilities to explore the outdoors – whether that’s adaptive skiing, snowboarding, kayaking or hiking. The local group Michigan Adaptive Sports is committed to creating inclusive recreational opportunities that allow everyone to experience the excitement of outdoor sports.

Since the 1980s, Michigan Adaptive Sports has offered clinics and camps to introduce disabled youths and adults to sporting opportunities. The volunteer-run organization consists of medical students as well as rehabilitation and occupational therapists who act as “buddies” for program participants and provide support during outings.  

“We serve ages eight and up. It doesn’t matter what your diagnosis is. Our primary focus is to get people out to enjoy all the different things our county and state parks have to offer. We want everyone to feel supported. We want everyone to feel included with what the state of Michigan has to offer and to get out there and enjoy life,” said Jason Ferrise, President of Michigan Adaptive Sports. 

“A couple of years back we helped a 91-year-old woman who wanted the chance to ski again. We took her out to Pine Knob and situated her in a bi-ski. She did seven runs in total and was ecstatic,” said Ferrise. 

There are also opportunities Up North for adventurous spirits at the annual Michigan Ice Fest in Munising. This gathering brings together ice-climbing enthusiasts to share their skills and teach the next generation of ice climbers. The festival has offered an adaptive clinic for the last five years. As Bill Thompson, Michigan Ice Fest organizer explains, most people don’t use specialized equipment to participate; instead, leaders modify existing equipment like sleds and ice axes to accommodate those with disabilities. 

“The Michigan Ice Fest has always been about creating opportunities, and the adaptive program is a perfect example of this. It’s important for everyone to have the opportunity to get outside and experience different types of adventure. It enables folks to experience the joy of ice climbing and builds a stronger community,” said Thompson. 

Michiganders across the state are working toward building accessible outdoor sporting opportunities that everyone can partake in and enjoy. Click here for more information on adaptive outdoor sports in Michigan.