RISE Adventures Golf Program is a Dream Come True!

When Kevin Wright was born, his parents never dreamed that he would ever play golf. As a small child growing up, he never had the opportunity to become involved in any sports due to his disabilities, which include visual impairment and cerebral palsy. Now, thanks to RISE Adventures, Kevin is learning to play golf and other recreational sports activities.

Almost every Saturday, Kevin can be found on the grounds of the North Texas Golf Center, where he receives customized instruction from Gary Pickle, a golf professional who works with Kevin through RISE Adventures to make adjustments for his physical disabilities.  Mr. Pickle has even fashioned custom golf clubs with special grips that allow Kevin to swing with only one hand. Kevin has also worked with several graduate students from TWU who are pursuing careers in recreational therapy.  All of the volunteers have enthusiastically encouraged Kevin to participate in golf and other sports on a regular basis in order to benefit not just from physical exercise but also from the relaxation and social engagement that result from involvement in sports.

According to Kevin’s parents, RISE Adventures has been a priceless gift because, without the encouragement from its volunteers, Kevin would remain shut up in his room with only solitary, sedentary activities such as watching television or browsing the internet to occupy his time. Because of the limitations imposed on him by his disabilities, Kevin previously had few outlets that allowed him to enjoy fresh air and exercise but, thanks to RISE Adventures, Kevin is beginning to realize that the only real barriers to recreation for the disabled are those of the mind.