Adaptive Sports in Richmond VA

Richmond is a regional leader in adaptive sports, offering inclusive, year-round opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities and visual impairments. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, Richmnd provides a welcoming and inspiring environment where adaptive athletics thrive. Thanks to dedicated organizations, accessible facilities, and a growing slate of events, Richmond is becoming one of the most inclusive sports destinations in the Mid-Atlantic. The Henrico Sports and Event Center has even hosted the prestigious National Wheelchair Basketball Championships in both 2024, and 2025!

Facilities Designed for Access

Richmond backs its commitment to inclusive athletics with high-quality, accessible facilities. RF&P Park in Glen Allen features flat, wide paths and fields suited for wheelchair use, while River City Sportsplex in Chesterfield is one of the largest sports complexes on the East Coast, with fields and facilities designed to accommodate athletes of all abilities. These venues regularly host adaptive sports clinics, league games, and tournaments.

Richmond is by new means a new city, which presents numerous challenges especially for accessible design. However, real progress is being made in this area. Other public recreation centers around the city are working to expand accessible features—from adaptive gym equipment to inclusive playgrounds—creating a citywide web of support for adaptive athletes and their families.

Signature Events & Competitions

One of the most anticipated events each year is the Virginia Adaptive Sports Festival, a day-long celebration featuring demonstrations, hands-on activities, and public engagement opportunities. It’s designed not just for athletes, but for families and newcomers curious to learn about adaptive sports. It’s also a great chance to meet the community and try something new in a low-pressure, welcoming setting.

Richmond also hosts high-profile competitions, including the River City Slam Wheelchair Tennis Tournament and regional wheelchair basketball qualifiers. These events bring in athletes from across the country and offer exciting opportunities for visitors to cheer on some of the top adaptive talent in the nation.

A Welcoming Community

Beyond facilities and events, what truly distinguishes Richmond is the spirit of its community. Local volunteers, fans, and families show up to support athletes with enthusiasm and pride. Sportable's programs emphasize connection and inclusion as much as competition, and many first-time participants become long-term members of a close-knit, supportive network.

Richmond’s inclusive culture extends beyond sports. From ADA-accessible trails and museums to restaurants that prioritize physical access and sensory-friendly environments, the city offers a welcoming experience for visitors with diverse needs.

Planning Your Visit

Many adaptive sports events are free and open to the public, making them an ideal addition to any trip itinerary. If you're planning a visit, check out Sportable for a full schedule of upcoming programs, open houses, and competitions. Several events are hosted at central locations near shopping, restaurants, and lodging—so it's easy to make a day of it.

For those looking to participate directly, Sportable offers newcomer orientations, beginner clinics, and even the chance to borrow adaptive gear to try a sport for the first time.

Looking Ahead

With ongoing investment in accessible infrastructure and growing partnerships between nonprofits, schools, hospitals, and parks departments, Richmond’s adaptive sports scene is only getting stronger. Future developments include expanded indoor space for adaptive winter sports, increased programming for youth, and new partnerships to reach underserved communities.

For travelers, this means even more opportunities to engage with one of the country’s most progressive and inclusive sports cultures—whether as a fan, a volunteer, or an athlete.