The United States Padel Association (USPA) is proud to spotlight the remarkable efforts of Military Adaptive Court Sports (MACS), under the leadership of Retired US NAVY Lt. Cmdr Steven Harper. MACS is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and joy of disabled veterans and wounded warriors through adaptive sports. With a focus on court sports including Padel, MACS is making significant strides in supporting veterans across the country, funded by grants from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Recently, from February 15th to 17th, MACS hosted an inspiring two-day Adaptive Padel clinic in Miami, FL, for veterans associated with the Miami VA Medical Center. The event took place at the stunning ULTRA Padel Club, utilizing both indoor and outdoor courts to introduce veterans to the joys of Padel. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with veterans particularly enjoying the accessibility and rally play of Padel. According to one recreational therapist, the veterans appreciated Padel for its ease of play, allowing them more space and time to adjust to the ball, a notable advantage over other court sports like pickleball.
This Miami clinic is part of a broader initiative by MACS, which has successfully introduced Padel to veterans from various VA Medical Centers, including Washington DC, Bronx, and Hudson Valley. The consistent outcome across these clinics has been the veterans' affinity for Padel due to the ease of hitting and rallying the ball, highlighting the sport's potential as a beneficial rehabilitation tool.
The USPA commends Military Adaptive Court Sports for their incredible work and is excited about the potential for Padel to contribute positively to the lives of veterans. Through initiatives like these, Padel not only grows as a sport in the USA but also serves as a meaningful activity that can enhance the well-being of those who have served their country.
