TORRANCE, Calif. – Eight adaptive sports athletes from Valley Children’s took center stage at the Angel City Games this summer, joining hundreds of competitors at the largest Paralympic-style adaptive sports event in the Western United States.
The three-day event in late June at El Camino College offered both competition and inspiration as athletes tested their limits, met Paralympic champions and brought home both medals and memories.
Athletes competed in archery, tennis, and track and field, while others had the opportunity to try new sports, including wheelchair rugby and football.
Kylie Holsworth earned a silver medal in the young adult team archery competition, marking a standout moment for the group.
Participants also had the chance to meet and play alongside Team USA Paralympians, military veterans, elite coaches and professional athletes from the NFL, NBA and National Wheelchair Basketball Association. Many athletes collected autographs, posed for photos and even tried on gold medals.
“At Angel City Games, our athletes were embraced by a community that celebrates diversity, strength, and the limitless potential of every individual,” said Laura Osejo, coordinator of the adaptive sports program at Valley Children’s. “I couldn’t be prouder of how they stepped out of their comfort zones, tried new things and represented our program with heart and determination. There’s a fire in them now, to push past limits, challenge themselves and continue growing and training.”
A highlight of the weekend was an all-star wheelchair basketball game, which featured a halftime performance by the Rollettes, a wheelchair dance team. Two local athletes joined the Rollettes for a dance session, learning new moves and celebrating the spirit of inclusion.
Roberto Sandoval, a wheelchair basketball player and member of the Fresno Wheelers, was thrilled to play with five-time Paralympian and two-time gold medalist Matt Scott.
“My experience at the Angel City games was fun, especially with the variety of adaptive sports opportunities available,” Sandoval said. “All of the Paralympians I met taught me a lot and gave me advice I will never forget.”
His mother, Irene, proudly looked on from the stands.
“I saw my son having fun doing what he loves, but I also saw how he transforms when it’s time to follow instructions and compete. Being able to talk with Paralympic athletes was amazing for us, and seeing Roberto interact with them was even more so,” she said.
To learn more about the Valley Children’s Adaptive Sports Program, click here.
