In a powerful display of inclusion, inspiration, and community, the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) partnered with Toyota and the Philadelphia 76ers to host a dynamic youth basketball clinic at the Chase Fieldhouse in Wilmington, Delaware. The event welcomed 40 young athletes of all abilities for a day filled with hands-on instruction, shared experiences, and the pure joy of play. 

This unique event, part of CAF’s Play With Purpose initiative, brought together youth athletes from across the region to learn new skills and build confidence both on and off the court. Led by members of the 76ers coaching staff and four-time Paralympian Steve Serio—co-captain of the gold medal-winning U.S. Men’s Wheelchair Basketball Team and proud CAF and Team Toyota athlete—the clinic emphasized teamwork, adaptive techniques, and most importantly, fun. 

“Events like this are so important because they show what’s possible,” said Serio. “Whether you’re playing in a wheelchair or standing, we are all united through this amazing game of basketball.” 

Surprise Moments and Game-Day Magic 

While the clinic itself was a highlight, the weekend held even more excitement for two deserving young athletes. On game night at the Wells Fargo Center, local youth players Willie Adames De Lara and Samuel Akinfenwa were invited to center court before tipoff of the 76ers game—expecting a shout-out. What they got instead was a life-changing surprise: brand-new custom Top End basketball wheelchairs lowered from the rafters just for them. 

The moment, made possible through grant funding from the Tri-State Toyota Dealers Association, was met with cheers from the crowd and tears of joy from the athletes and their families. These high-performance chairs will allow Willie and Samuel to train, compete, and take their game to the next level in the upcoming wheelchair basketball season. 

Play With Purpose: Creating Pathways in Sport 

CAF’s Play With Purpose initiative is designed to break down barriers and create meaningful connections between athletes with physical disabilities and the broader sports community. By partnering with professional teams like the 76ers and committed sponsors like Toyota, CAF is expanding access to adaptive sports and showing young athletes what’s possible when opportunity meets support. 

Youth participation in adaptive sports remains significantly lower than in typical youth sports programs, often due to lack of access to equipment, coaching, or inclusive opportunities. Through events like this clinic, CAF is not only delivering those resources—it’s creating unforgettable moments of inspiration and growth. 

Why This Matters 

At CAF, we believe that sport has the power to change lives. When young athletes are given the tools, support, and belief in their abilities, they can unlock their full potential—on the court and beyond. 

Thanks to the continued support of Toyota and the Philadelphia 76ers, this event helped build confidence, fuel ambition, and provide a path forward for dozens of young athletes. For Willie and Samuel, it marked the start of a new chapter—one filled with opportunity, movement, and a chance to dream bigger. 

📣 Want to Get Involved? 

• Learn more about CAF’s Play With Purpose initiative. 

• Support youth athletes by making a donation to CAF. 

• Know an athlete who could benefit from a grant? Apply here.