SportsAbility is the premier event of the Florida Disabled Outdoors Association (FDOA). This event is about enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by promoting active living. SportsAbility provides first hand access to resources and demonstrations of activities designed to encourage participation regardless of age or ability level.

People who attend SportsAbility learn about the value of recreation and active leisure for everyone – especially people with disabilities. People discover the latest in equipment, trends, and resources. This event provides an opportunity for people to network with people with disabilities, resource providers, and community organizations. There is NO CHARGE to participants thanks to our generous sponsors.

Click to view a three minute video on SportsAbility.

SportsAbility Active Leisure for Life Banquet
Thursday, April 15, 2010 - 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Doubletree Hotel Tallahassee

Each year, SportsAbility opens with the Active Leisure for Life Banquet which celebrates the efforts of those who have contributed to the disability community.  Family and friends will gather together to enjoy a sit-down dinner, hear the key note speaker, Alexei Talai, followed by music and a silent auction. All proceeds from the dinner will support the FDOA SportsAbility and the Recreational Activity for Adults with Disabilities programs.  Advanced tickets are $30 per person or $50 per couple.

Keynote - Alexei Talai is a dynamic individual from Belarus who inspires others by his accomplishments. Alexey Talai is a father, husband and an Executive Director from Orsha, Belarus (between Russia, Ukraine, Poland and Baltic).  When he was 16 years old a World War II German landmine blew off his legs and right arm. He believes that he may be the last person to be affected by the devastation of WW II.  His mission is to serve the needs of persons with disabilities and orphans in his country of Belarus. His drive, dream, and mission are improving the lives of people with disabilities and orphans in Eastern Europe.

Music - Music will be provided by Kevin Ogden, front man for ACME Rhythm and Blues, who will be performing solo acoustic. Music will include tunes from Jimmy Buffet, 60's, 70's and today.

Award - Past winners of the Active Leisure for Life Award include Kiwanis of the Big Bend, Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic, Tallahassee Community College, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Department of Health Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program. Past speakers include Lee Corso and Academy Award Nominated Murderball’s Joe Soares.

Silent Auction - Some of the items to be included in the silent auction hosted by the Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic are: framed artwork; jewelry designed by local artists, food gift cards, gift baskets and much more.  All proceeds benefit the Florida Disabled Outdoors Association programs.

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Expo – Information booths on the latest in products, active leisure programs, and disability services Adaptive Golf Tennis Basketball Martial Arts Laser Target Shooting Interactive Fishing Simulator Disc Golf Therapeutic Recreation Activities

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OUTDOORS DAY - FREE
Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM - Ochlockonee River State Park

The OUTDOOR day provides the opportunity for people to try outdoor activities, such as:

Pontoon Boat Rides Sit-down Water Skiing Sailing Canoeing and Kayaking Jet Skiing Fishing Hand-Pedaled Biking Archery Target Shooting Nature Trail Rides Golf Clinics Horseback Riding Lunch Provided at no charge Music by Blacksheep

Power Soccer Clinic and Baseball events - FREE
Sunday, April 18, 2010- 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM - Miracle Field at Messer Park

Attendees join in the excitement of all that power soccer offers!!

The day includes a free power soccer clinic, a power soccer game, and interactive play between the audience and the power soccer teams. Also, attendees have the opportunity to try their hand at baseball on the new Miracle Field!

SPORTSABILITY is much more than fun. It is a wonderful occasion to help educate the public about the importance of physical activity and about recreational opportunities while also providing valuable information of other important community resources available to people, including those with disabilities.

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VIEW PHOTOS FROM:

October 2, 2009 - SportsAbility Ocala - Photos by Elise Crigar

April 16, 2009 - Banquet - Photos by Ross Obley
April 17, 2009 - TCC - Photos by Ross Obley
April 18, 2009 - Ochlockonee River - Photos by Mic Dotterelli
April 19, 2009 - Miracle League - Photos by Mic Dotterelli

Please thank our photographers who have gratiously donated their services!

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Other FDOA Programs

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