A handful of the Tampa Y’s adaptive members got the thrill of a lifetime last month. Tampa’s indoor skydiving center, iFly, invited any member with physical, visual and/or intellectual impairment to experience its flights. “I never thought any of our guys would do this, let alone be successful,” shares New Tampa Y Adaptive Coordinator Kass Pilczuk. “But the staff was so good. They would be there to help them succeed and feel the success. They all loved it because they didn’t fail. They conquered their fear and then got to fly! Their smiles were the greatest part of it all.”
Custom-designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges, two trained iFly instructors created an environment of support and inclusion. “One of our members, Steven Blackshear, had his knees bent and they wanted them straight,” recalls Kass. “Two staff members worked with him to get his legs straight. It was incredible! They can’t wait to go back.”
Many thanks to iFly Tampa for inviting our adaptive members to experience an adventure they may not, otherwise, have the chance to do. The Y is committed to developing strength in spirit, mind and body for all. Our adaptive programs help children, teens and adults of all abilities benefit from physical activity and group interaction. The New Tampa Y, in particular, offers a full-range of adaptive programming including art, basketball, aquatics and an adult wellness program. For more information, contact Kass at 813.866.9622 or kpilczuk@tampaymca.org.
Pictured above: The Y’s adaptive members, like Steven Blackshear, may face mental and/or physical challenges, but in this indoor skydiving range, they got to fly!