VA Adaptive Sports
VA funds adaptive sports and recreation programs for disabled veterans and servicemembers — from recreational participation to competitive Paralympic pathways.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may not reflect recent changes. Always verify with the official source linked below. This is not legal, medical, or financial advice.
National Veterans Sports Programs
VA awards grants to organizations providing adaptive sports programs for disabled veterans. In FY2025, VA awarded over $16 million in grants to organizations nationwide. Available sports include:
- Wheelchair basketball
- Sled hockey
- Cycling (hand cycling, tandem cycling)
- Swimming
- Archery
- Track and field
- Skiing (alpine and Nordic)
- Kayaking and rowing
- And many more — programs vary by location
Programs are run by community organizations with VA grant funding. Contact your local VA medical center recreation therapy department for programs near you.
National Veterans Sports Clinic (NVSSC)
The NVSSC is a multi-day event offering veterans the opportunity to try multiple adaptive sports with professional instruction and adaptive equipment.
- Open to all veterans enrolled in VA healthcare
- Offers multi-sport experiences and training
- Medical director review ensures safe participation
- Travel, lodging, and meals are typically covered
Paralympic & Competitive Pathways
Veterans who want to compete at the highest levels can receive a monthly training allowance from VA to support their athletic development.
Eligibility for Monthly Training Allowance
- Paralympic pathway: Must be nationally or internationally classified by a Paralympic sport federation as eligible for Paralympic competition
- Olympic pathway: Must have a service-connected disability rated 30% or higher and be selected for a national Olympic team
Who Qualifies & How to Access
Eligibility
| Program | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|
| General adaptive sports | Disabled veterans and members of the Armed Forces |
| NVSSC | All veterans enrolled in VA healthcare |
| Paralympic pathway | Nationally classified Paralympic athletes |
| Olympic monthly allowance | 30%+ SC-rated veterans on national teams |
How to Get Started
- Contact your local VA medical center's recreation therapy department
- Email: Grants4vets@va.gov
- Website: department.va.gov/veteran-sports
- Ask your VA recreation therapist for referrals to local adaptive sports programs