Find out what’s out there
Explore various sporting opportunities, considering team or individual sports, indoor or outdoor sports, and the health benefits of specific sports (i.e. flexibility, cardiovascular, strength and muscular endurance). Find those that suit your interests and abilities. Check out our online Ontario ParaSport Directory for a club near you.

Host or attend a Ready Willing and Able (RWA) session
If you are interested in a sport but would prefer to try it or the equipment out before joining a club, ask your school, rehabilitation centre or community centre to host an RWA event where you can meet an Athlete Ambassador and have a scrimmage.

Watch a game or practice
Trying out a new sport can be little intimidating at times, so consider going to watch a game or practice of a local team, without any pressure to participate.

Give it a try
Ask your local team if you can come to a practice to try out the sport before having to commit to joining a team.

Bring along a friend
Having a friend or sibling try the sport or join the team with you can be lots of fun and can help alleviate any nervous feelings. Many able bodied participants are welcome to play ParaSports at a recreational level, often times all the way up to the Provincial level. (For details, check with the governing sport body.)

Speak to others
If you are uncertain of anything or if you have some questions about a sport, speak to other athletes, parents or coaches. They will be more than happy to share their experiences and any advice.

Be patient
Keep in mind that it might take time to acquire skills and develop but with lots of practice and dedication you will see lots of improvement.

Do not be intimidated
Be sure to keep in mind that there is a huge leap from recreational teams to competitive teams and do not be intimidated by the pros – they have been playing for years and likely started at a very recreational level.

Do research
Understanding the sport and rules ahead of time will help you to feel comfortable in participating. Check out the website of the governing provincial sport body for more information.

Do not let lack of equipment deter you
Many organizations and clubs can make arrangements for equipment including loan programs or locating used equipment. Talk to the local club or provincial sport organization that governs the sport to see how they can help out.

Do not let a lack of funding deter you
Many organizations and foundations will provide grants for individuals to get involved in sport programs. Fundraising is another option if you are passionate about participating.

Create your own opportunity
If there is no program available in your community contact ParaSport Ontario to see about how you can help your community by starting one up!