What Inclusive Sports Really Look Like at Asphalt Green
At Asphalt Green, we transform lives and build community through sports, fitness, and play for all. That means ensuring we have programs where every athlete, regardless of age, ability, or need, can not only participate, but thrive.
“As a family who have tried different places for extracurricular activities and sometimes have failed to feel accepted; this program is a godsend.”
– Ana G
Inclusive Programs Parent
In 2024, Asphalt Green launched our Inclusive Programs to do just that. Offered year-round, our programs empower participants with a range of support needs including ADHD, autism, sensory processing disorder, gross motor delays, Down syndrome, and more. All programs are held in carefully curated, sensory-friendly environments with highly trained staff and a 2:1 student-to-instructor ratio, so every athlete feels comfortable and supported.
Why Are Inclusive Programs Important?
Participation in sports is proven to help people live active, healthier, and more connected lives, but it also offers specific and important benefits for athletes with disabilities who may struggle with emotional regulation, social isolation, and confidence.
Despite these benefits, studies show a clear lack of access to inclusive programs, with organizations like the Aspen Institute noting that as few as 1% of public-school students participate in adaptive sports or unified programs at schools.
What is Asphalt Green’s Philosophy of Inclusion?
At Asphalt Green, everyone plays. We believe every athlete deserves access to high-quality coaching, supportive instruction, and a space where they feel seen, encouraged, and empowered.
Across all our programs, we help athletes build lifelong passions for sports and exercise, improve their confidence and resilience, and find social connections.
However, inclusion at Asphalt Green is far more than a single program for our families. We are committed to creating a comprehensive pathway from foundational skill development to competitive athletics, community participation, and workforce opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
What Inclusive Programs Does Asphalt Green Offer?
We offer a wide range of classes to help kids find a sport or program that excites them to get moving. Whether your child prefers the court, field, pool, or playground, there’s always a place for them to grow their passion or discover new ones.
Everyone Plays Basketball — An inclusive basketball class that develops skills, builds confidence, and inspires the joy of the game.
Everyone Swims — A fun, engaging swim class focused on water confidence, safety, and physical and social development for kids who benefit from a more supportive aquatic environment.
Everyone Plays Soccer — A welcoming, inclusive soccer class designed for kids of all abilities to learn the sport in a sensory-friendly, encouraging setting.
Playground Pathways — A class that helps children develop essential play and movement skills like climbing, swinging, balancing, in a structured, inclusive environment.
Youth Private Lessons (Inclusive) — One-on-one instruction with our expert coaches in your child’s sport of choice, tailored entirely to their individual needs.
Girls Night Out — A monthly evening program for female-identifying kids and teens to connect and move their bodies in a supportive community space.
Who Leads Asphalt Green’s Inclusive Programs?
Lauren Madden is Asphalt Green’s Director of Adaptive Programs, overseeing a dedicated staff of behavioral specialists and lead and assistant instructors who are passionate about inclusion and active living.
What Is the Enrollment Process for Inclusive Programs?
Before enrollment, we ask parents to complete a detailed intake form to record each athlete’s needs and goals. From the first day of class, we build relationships with each athlete, getting to know their athletic strengths, weaknesses, and motivators, to identify areas of focus. Our commitment is to support participants at every stage, because no athletic journey is the same.
If you’re interested in learning more or meeting our Inclusive Programs team, contact us below!
