Wheelchair and Ambulatory Sports - Adaptive Sports, Rochester NY

 "I founded the Rochester Rookies in 1976 after having competed in the Paralympic Games. Having experienced competitive wheelchair sports, I was passionate about creating a junior program to provide that same opportunity to the disabled youth in our community. Over the past 40 plus years, we have seen four generations of athletes pass through our program, competing in local, regional, national and international competition.  I am profoundly proud of each of their accomplishments. I have enjoyed a lifetime of wheelchair sports, and I look forward to seeing our athletes continue to thrive during this exciting time".  ~ Jo Ann (Keyser) Armstrong, Founder of The Rochester Rookies

"The Rochester Rookies is a component of my DNA.  I started with the program at the young age of eight and credit it with opening many doors of opportunity in my life.  I was honored to represent our team in several international and world competitions.  As an adult, I was given the opportunity to participate in college sports with the University of Illinois (track and basketball). I applied the skill, dedication and hard work, which I learned as a Rochester Rookie, and accomplished my dream of being a Paralympic Athlete with TEAM USA for the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England.  I couldn't be happier than to return to Rochester, NY and the Rochester Rookies and contribute to providing the same opportunities for our athletes and the community". ~  Ryan Chalmers, Rochester Rookies Program Director