The skateparks of Los Angeles were buzzing with energy as the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) partnered with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks’ PlayLA Youth Adaptive Sports Program to host a series of four adaptive skateboarding clinics. Designed for athletes ages 5–17 with physical disabilities, the clinics brought skateboarding to youth across the city in a safe, inclusive, and exciting environment.

Building a Legacy Before LA28

The PlayLA Youth & Adaptive Sports Program is more than a set of clinics—it’s the largest commitment to youth sports development in California, funded by the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). By creating consistent programming for youth of all abilities, PlayLA is building a legacy that will last before, during, and after LA28.

CAF was selected to deliver adaptive sports opportunities as part of this historic initiative, helping ensure that athletes with physical disabilities are not left on the sidelines.

Four Clinics, Four Communities

Over the course of four clinics held at recreation centers across Los Angeles—Chevy Chase, Harbor City, Westchester, and Stoner—58 youth athletes got the chance to drop into the world of skateboarding. Each clinic was fully equipped with adaptive skate equipment, safety gear, hydration, shade, and expert instruction, ensuring that every participant could focus on fun and skill-building.

CAF’s program lead, five-time Paralympic gold medalist Rudy Garcia-Tolson, coordinated the series and served as both organizer and mentor. Alongside Rudy, four professional adaptive skate coaches provided one-on-one instruction with both WCMX wheelchairs and stand-up skateboards.

Coaching, Mentorship, and Impact

The atmosphere at each clinic blended serious skill-building with community connection. From learning balance and basic pushes to more advanced moves, athletes progressed at their own pace with encouragement at every step. Parents and families lined the skateparks, cheering as young skaters gained confidence on wheels.

One highlight came when athlete Damian Muñoz, who dreams of one day competing at the Paralympic Games, received a $1,500 CAF grant during the third clinic to continue his skateboarding journey with additional lessons. This moment captured the program’s true spirit: providing immediate opportunities while building pathways for long-term growth in sport.

More Than Clinics: A Growing Movement

These skateboarding clinics are part of CAF’s broader role in PlayLA’s adaptive youth programming, which also includes para surf clinics (with 11 planned each year through 2024). Together, these programs are not only introducing sports but also nurturing a generation of athletes who will carry the momentum into LA28 and beyond.

Get Involved

CAF and PlayLA are proving that when opportunity meets access, lives are changed. Families can explore current PlayLA adaptive programs, while donors and volunteers can help bring future clinics to life. Together, we can continue building a movement that ensures every young athlete has the chance to roll forward with confidence and community.