Camp Abilities Long Island

Athletes are oriented to the field of play, and the sounds of the baseballs and bases. Coaches and specialists will teach athletes the rules of the game which include, base running, batting and how to field a ball.

During tandem biking, our athletes are able to choose between riding an individual or tandem bike based on their vision and their comfort level. Each athlete learns to feel if their bike has enough air in the tires, how to check their brakes to make sure they work properly, what a well-fitted helmet feels like and how to use a kickstand to stand for their bike. They also learn the many aspects of bike safety and maintenance in order to ensure a safe ride for all.

Goalball is a Paralympic sport specific to children and adults with visual impairments. We teach athletes the rules of the game, techniques for diving to block the ball, as well as, how to roll a ball to score a goal during a game. Using tactile boards and small wooden mannequins to mimic the body positions of the game, athletes use sound and touch in this blind folded sport. After getting comfortable with practice drills, real games are offered to athletes to play against each other.

Throughout the week, athletes in-water skills are assessed. From first timers who working towards getting in the pool to seasoned swimmers perfecting their diving, our coaches and swim instructors work with each athlete to improve their swimming at any level they are at. Comfort comes first for our athletes, and we want them to achieve their goals while creating a positive experience. In the water we teach skills they may never have been able to do before, such as, diving, jumping and rescue techniques. Swimmers are encouraged to work towards achieving Red Cross swimming level skills.

During track and field, athletes have the opportunity to run long distance, short distance sprinting, participate in long jumps, as well as try shot put and discus. Our specialists explain the different running techniques used and the athletes can choose between sighted guide, a guide wire, and tether running. Athletes are encouraged to choose a technique that is most comfortable while they work on their cardiovascular endurance.

It is the classic game of soccer but the ball has bells in it for the athletes to keep track of the sound. Each net has beepers so the athletes can track the end of the fields and where they are shooting. Our specialists will go over the offense, defensive and goalie positions as well as passing, dribbling, and blocking.

A choice activity favorite, Athletes can play mini games together or work on their free throws. Coaches will create noise against the backboard of the basketball hoop to indicate where the athlete should aim for.

Bump, set, spike! The essential skills athletes learn while playing volleyball. They can then use their skills in games with each other or to use against their own coaches in a friendly game.

A new introduction to Camp Abilities Long Island. In field hockey, our specialists and guests from the New York Metro Blind Hockey team join us to teach athletes the ins and outs of this sport. Some of our coaches are even members of the team, and assist in encouraging our athletes when they are playing.

We brought tennis to Camp Abilities in 2024, with the help of the organization, The Sound of Tennis. Athletes were guided through holding a racket, practicing swings and hitting the ball over the net.