The ACA and Adaptive Paddling
The American Canoe Association (ACA) is actively committed to equal access to paddlesport and to the full integration of paddlers who have disabilities. Paddlers who have disabilities may need unique paddling information about adaptive equipment and resources. The ACA Adaptive Paddling Program (APP) is meeting these needs in the following ways:
- The APP serves as a clearinghouse for information on paddling including:
- Adaptations for seating, paddles, grips/gloves, and so forth;
- Accessibility to instruction, paddling areas, and related businesses;
- And, as a resource for instructors, with additional training on how to include paddlers with disabilities.
- The APP works one-on-one with paddlers and would-be paddlers to suggest specific resources including adaptations to meet their needs and instruction sites in their local area. Send your questions to the adaptive paddling experts at joyen@americancanoe.org
- The APP is the source for the book, Canoeing and Kayaking for Persons with Disabilities. To order a copy of this book visit the ACA Store
- The APP presents Adaptive Paddling Workshops around the country to assist instructors, paddling program providers, and recreation and rehabilitation specialists working with paddlers who have disabilities.
- The APP nationally publicizes the potential of paddlers with disabilities through articles and presentations. Paddler Magazine Sept/Oct 2004
- The APP consults with existing paddling programs to assist in the inclusion of paddlers with disabilities.
- The APP works with designers and manufacturers to develop adaptive paddling equipment.
Adaptive Paddling Instructor Criteria and Performance Objectives
For more information contact the ACA National Office at (703) 451-0141
