[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 76 (Thursday, May 10, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E629]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             SPORTS FOR ALL

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 10, 2018

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it's that time of year again, 
ballparks are back in swing. You will be hard pressed not to find a 
little league game being played just about any day of the week. Most 
kids know the thrill of lacing up their cleats, wearing a uniform, and 
being part of a team. My community desired that ALL kids have this 
chance. I am proud to announce that the Second District of Texas has a 
new ballpark in town--Insperity Adaptive Sports Complex.
  Too often children with disabilities are forced to watch from the 
bench or sidelines. Playgrounds and sports fields are neither 
wheelchair nor walker friendly. Humble Independent School District and 
the YMCA partnered to provide children with disabilities and special 
needs a unique barrier free environment to play and participate in team 
sports. The facility exists because of companies like Insperity and 
folks like Joe Cleary, Mark Koenig, and Dr. Guy Sconzo; along with the 
executive directors, board members, private donors, and volunteers, who 
devoted countless hours and money to improving the lives of children 
with disabilities.
  Insperity Adaptive Sports Complex is located near Summerwood between 
Groves Elementary and West Lake Middle School. It sits on 5 acres. It 
features two YMCA Miracle League fields. Both fields are wheelchair 
accessible with a synthetic surface that allows children of all 
abilities to take the field. The team dugouts accommodate wheelchairs 
and other special needs such as walkers. Kids of all abilities can now 
be a part of a team. They proudly wear their uniform and round the 
bases just like their friends. And they have fans. It is joy to witness 
parents getting to watch their disabled child be a part of a team for 
the very first time.
  The new adaptive sports facility also has an innovative playground 
with ramps, special swings, and sensory stations. It even has a 
basketball court with modified basketball hoops. It feels like any 
other ball park with concessions and a pavilion. It is important for 
those with disabilities to stay active. Adaptive sports and 
recreational programs bring health, wellness and social benefits to the 
special needs child. It is challenging but also healing.
  The unique partnership, between the school district and the YMCA, 
allows students in the district to use the facility during the school 
day and the YMCA uses the facility in the evenings and weekends. The 
community is welcome to enjoy the open playground outside of school 
times. A win win for the Lake Houston area.
  So this weekend, grab your sunscreen, and head out to our newest park 
in town. Be ready to cheer on some remarkable Texans, who are happy to 
finally be a part of a team.
  And that's just the way it is.