2026 UPMC Adaptive Sports Conference
May 16, 2026
Adaptive athletes succeed when care teams work together. Each discipline brings a distinct role, perspective, and expertise in pursuit of a common goal: supporting safe participation, performance, independence, and lifelong engagement in sport and recreation.
View the program.
Who Should Attend
This event is ideal for nurses, physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, recreation therapists, athletic trainers, orthotists, prosthetists, sports nutritionists, students, volunteers, and trainees.
Learning Objectives for Participants
- Learn how to identify Pittsburgh-area adaptive sports organizations and opportunities for athletes with visual and physical disabilities.
- Name at least three roles in which health care professionals may volunteer with adaptive athletes (for example, medical coverage, refereeing, coaching, and classifying).
- Assess and manage common injuries specific to adaptive athletes by applying evidence-based medical practices in adaptive sports settings.
- Demonstrate hands-on proficiency in providing three considerations for safely assisting with transfers into and out of adaptive sport equipment.
- Implement disability etiquette strategies in patient care and event coverage to improve communication and rapport with adaptive athletes.
CME accreditation is available.
Registration
Register here.
About the Adaptive Sports Program
The program is a community-centered program within the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC.
The Adaptive Sports and Recreation Program is committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing accessible pathways to adaptive sports, recreation, and community engagement. Key initiatives include cross collaboration with healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and community members to enhance accessibility to adaptive sports and recreation programs. Through these efforts, we strive to create accessible pathways to enhance quality of life, improve physical and mental health, and promote community integration.
Contact Us
Questions? Please contact Michael Grapner, program coordinator, by email mjg188@pitt.edu.
