Group helps disabled people to play sports

A Valley group is helping disabled kids and adults to compete in sports.

Over 1,000 mentally or physically disabled people are now enrolled in sports programs through the non-profit Arizona Disabled Sports Organization.

Executive Director Lane Jeppessen said the people in the organization can play sports with others who have similar issues.

"It becomes an opportunity for them to socially network with other individuals and families that have kind of gone through the same challenges in their life and help to overcome them and grow up to be productive community members," she said.

The program has programs for kids with autism and other developmental problems, along with programs for those who are physically disabled.

"Spina bifida, cerebral palsy, brain injuries, a spinal cord injury, amputations -- a wide variety -- any type of physical disability," said Jappessen.

The organization hosts many events, including a soccer tournament for those in powered wheelchairs, a wheelchair basketball tournament and a national competition that includes track and field and archery.