Michigan State University offers this unique program that may be of interest to families dealing with sensory processing disorders. Hopefully this resource is available to families near other public universities.
Sports Skills Program (SSP)
Overview. In the Sports Skills Program, MSU undergraduate students provide coaching and instruction in sports skills to children and adults with disabilities who reside in the greater Lansing area. SSP provides opportunities for: (a) MSU students to develop an appreciation of human ability and acquire teaching/coaching skills; (b) persons with disabilities to improve sports skills and physical fitness; and (c) MSU students and faculty to conduct research on physical activity and disability.
Participants. Children (aged 6 and older) and adults with disabilities are welcome to participate in the Sports Skills Program, regardless of the nature and severity of the person's disability.
Sports. Fall semester sports offerings include swimming, soccer, basketball, volleyball, bowling, dance gymnastics/tumbling, and developmental sports activities. Spring semester sports offerings include swimming, basketball, softball/tee-ball, track, bowling, dance, gymnastics/tumbling, and developmental sports activities. Developmental sports activities focus on (a) object-control skills such as throwing, catching, kicking, bouncing, and striking; (b) locomotor skills such as running, jumping, hopping, skipping, galloping, and leaping; (c) rhythm and balance skills; and (d) low-organized games and sports. Participants receive individualized (usually one-on-one) coaching or instruction in the selected sports skills.
Schedule. SSP is offered each fall and spring semester. Exact starting and ending dates for each session are described on the application forms that are sent to people on our mailing list. Three sections of the Sports Skills Program are offered each semester: (a) gym on Tuesdays from 5:30-6:15; (b) swimming on Tuesdays from 4:15-5:00; and (c) swimming on Thursdays from 4:15-5:00. Participants may enroll in one or more sections. Swimming is offered in the indoor swimming pool at Jenison Fieldhouse. Gymnasium activities meet in the Turf Arena at the Intramural Sports West Building.
Staff. Dr. Gail M. Dummer serves as Director of the Sports Skills Program. Her staff includes Darlene Howe (secretary) (howeda@msu.edu), and several teaching assistants. The SSP coaches and teachers are undergraduate students who are enrolled in KIN 465 - Adapted Physical Activity. Most of these students are majors in kinesiology and athletic training.
Fees. Participants pay a fee of $50 per semester for one section (Tuesday swimming, Thursday swimming, or Tuesday gym), $80 for two sections, or $100 for three sections. Scholarships are available to participants with financial need.
Mailing list. Please contact the secretary of the Sports Skills Program to add your name to our mailing list. Your message should include: (a) the participant’s name, birth date, and disability; (b) parent/caregiver’s names; (c) mailing address; (d) home, work, and cell phone numbers; and (e) email address. Individuals on the mailing list will receive detailed program information and application forms prior to each session. Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Sports Skills Program
c/o Darlene Howe
Department of Kinesiology
138 IM Sports Circle
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 353-3866
howeda@msu.edu
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