The Role of Occupational Therapy in Adaptive Sports: Implementation of a Young Athletes Program in St. Johns County

Authors

• Gabriellea Elizabeth Zito Fernandez, University of St. Augustine of Health SciencesFollow
• Cynthia Haynes, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

This doctoral capstone project examined the feasibility and acceptability of implementing the Special Olympics Young Athletes Program (YAP) within St. Johns County, Florida, an area with limited early childhood adaptive sports opportunities. Grounded in Social Cognitive Theory and the occupation-centered program development model, the project aimed to support participation in inclusive recreation for children ages 2–7 with and without disabilities.

A comprehensive needs assessment, community resource mapping, and collaboration with Brooks Rehabilitation Adaptive Sports & Recreation informed program planning and implementation. A five-week YAP pilot program was conducted, focusing on foundational motor skill development through structured, play-based activities centered on baseball. Caregiver engagement was emphasized through the development of take-home resources to promote skill carryover into daily routines.

Program evaluation utilized a post-program caregiver survey to assess satisfaction, perceived benefits, and overall program feasibility. Findings indicated high caregiver satisfaction, increased awareness of adaptive sports opportunities, and perceived improvements in children’s motor skills and social participation. Environmental and logistical considerations, such as space constraints and variable attendance, were also identified.

Overall, results support the feasibility of implementing YAP in St. Johns County and highlight the role of occupational therapy in promoting inclusive, community-based recreational programming for young children with disabilities.

Publication Date

Spring 4-10-2026

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Adaptive sports

Medical Subject Headings

Occupational therapy, Sports for persons with disabilities, Athletes

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy | Sports Sciences

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 10, 2026.

Recommended Citation

Fernandez, G. E., & Haynes, C. (2026, April 10). The Role of Occupational Therapy in Adaptive Sports: Implementation of a Young Athletes Program in St. Johns County. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2026/22