Skip to header Skip to Content Skip to Footer
A smiling wheelchair user holds a pickleball paddle on an outdoor court.
img_30

Adaptive Recreation

Adaptive Sports Series

Competitive Sports hosts a series of adaptive sporting events around campus each semester. Our Adaptive Sports Series welcomes participants with and without disabilities to compete together in an inclusive and supportive environment. No pre-registration is required for these events, so please stop by for as little or as long as you like! Check out IMLeagues to see what is being offered this semester!

  • Wheelchair Tennis
  • Wheelchair Basketball
  • Sitting Volleyball
  • Wheelchair Pickleball
  • Goal Ball
  • Wheelchair Rugby
  • Wheelchair Ultimate Frisbee

Looking for something else? Contact us at compsports@uncw.edu

Programming & Instructional Support:

  • Equipment orientations and guided facility tours
  • Small group training available upon request for participants with shared needs
  • Group fitness instructors provide movement modifications and inclusive instruction
  • Fitness Center staff available for basic education, support, and spotting

Services:

  • QR codes on strength equipment linking to exercise demonstrations 
  • Accessible scheduling platforms compatible with screen readers (WCAG 2.1 AA)
  • Closed captioning available for virtual group fitness classes

Equipment:

  • “Active Hands” adaptive equipment available for checkout:
    • D-ring wrist attachment
    • Hook wrist attachment
    • Grip aid attachment
  • Adjustable benches and transfer-friendly strength equipment
  • Ramp-accessible lifting platforms
  • Chair-accessible Smith machines and cable machines
  • Arm ergometers with removable seats for wheelchair access
  • Resistance bands available through equipment checkout
Adaptive Equipment & Accessibility Features
  • ADA pool chair lift access for entering/exiting the pool
  • ADA door access for entering/exiting indoor pool
  • Accessible single use restrooms and changing room with showers
  • Lifejackets/personal flotation devices available for participant use
  • Variety of pool noodles, kickboards, and flotation support equipment
  • Staff assistance with entering/exiting the pool if requested
Inclusive Swim & Participation Options
  • Swim lessons can be adapted to meet varying physical, sensory, or comfort needs
  • One-on-one/private swim lesson options available for all ages
  • Recreational swim using the ADA pool chair lift anytime during open hours of operation

Programs & Events

  • Participation encouraged during Dive-In Movies, Seahawk Plunge, and other special events
  • ADA access points available during aquatic events

Seahawk Adventures is working to develop processes for further adaptive recreational opportunities for the Climbing Wall, Challenge Course and kayaking. Please check back for more information.

The Pat Leonard Student Recreation Center complies with all state, federal and local ADA requirements. A few amenities include: 

  • Two elevators for convenient navigation. 
  • Hand-motion-activated automatic door openers for assistance.
  • Three all gender restrooms that are private and accessible.
  • "Comfort zones" throughout the Recreation Center for a more private workout experience, including Studio 129, the Training Den, Cardio Balcony and Peloton area.
  • Wayfinding signage with clear navigation throughout the facility.
  • Participants seeking a lower-sensory environment are encouraged to visit during less busy times. View our live facility counts to decide when to visit.

Something for Everyone

Explore our activities and discover new ways to move, connect and have fun. From chair yoga to adaptive ultimate frisbee and rugby, we offer inclusive programs designed for all abilities and interests!
soaring seahawk statue

Inclusive Futures Program

The Inclusive Futures Program (IFP) is a two-year, 55-hour non-degree undergraduate certificate program designed to empower students with intellectual disabilities.

Contact Us

Campus Rec Office (Academic Session) Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Rec Center:
(910) 962-3261

Live Facility Counts

Facility Hours

Campus Rec Outdoor Facilities & Programs Hotline:
(910) 962-7246

Outdoor Alert System

Facility Reservations & Schedule of Events