Dear LA Teacher,
My son is crippled making playing baseball difficult because he falls down so frequently. Is there a sports facility in Los Angeles catering to children with disabilities?
Mom Advocate
Dear Mom Advocate,
On September 20, 2012 the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks opened the first All Access Sports Field in Los Angeles County. The Barry A. Sanders Sports Field, named for the President of the Board of Commissioners for Recreation and Parks, is unique.
Located at the south end of Lake Balboa in Anthony C. Beilenson Park, the Barry A. Sanders Sports Field is designed for the use of children and adults with disabilities. These individuals can now safely play baseball, soccer, and basketball on this specialized field with a rubberized surface designed for wheelchairs and walkers. People with an unsteady gait do not have to worry about hurting themselves if they fall down on the soft surface.
Barry A. Sanders Sports Field cost about $8000,000. Funds were raised through the incredible support and dedication of Barry A. Sanders who worked closely with funding partners like the Annenberg Foundation, Weingart Foundation, LA84 Foundation, and Chevrolet.
The Sanders Sports Field has special features beyond the rubberized surface. The dugouts were made extra wide to fit wheelchairs. Other special features of the park include solar power, water conservation technologies, and sustainable landscaping.
Teams can sign up to use the facility by calling 818-756-8060. You can also learn more about the All Access Sports Field on the LA Parks Foundation website. Keep in mind, the facility is locked and is only available for use by permit.
Good Luck,
LA Teacher
Learn more about LA Teacher on his website.
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