For the last 30 years, Arizona Disabled Sports has been a staple in the Mesa community.
"Arizona Disabled Sports started with a combined effort between a gentleman from Mesa Parks and Rec and an adaptive PE teacher from Mesa Public Schools," said Barb Peacock, who has been volunteering with the organization for almost as long as its been in existence.
Since its inception, the goal of the Mesa nonprofit is to let no one sit on the sidelines, even those with disabilities.
From archery to basketball, AZDS offers more than 30 different adaptive sports for people with disabilities.
This week, we’re focusing on power soccer.
The sport is an incredible adaptive sport for athletes with disabilities that use an electric wheelchair.
"It’s a mix of demolition derby and soccer," said athlete Gabe Trujillo. "The minute I strapped on one of those plastic guards on my chair I was immediately hooked."
With rules similar to able-bodied soccer, power soccer is comprised of two 20-minute halves with four players on the court for each team.
AZDS’ team, the Arizona Heat, practices every Wednesday at the Broadway Recreation Center in Mesa. This June, they will head to Fort Wayne, Indiana to compete in the National Championship.
But before they go, the team is hosting a benefit golf tournament on May 6 at the Ahwatukee Country Club to raise money for travel expenses.
If you would like to learn more about power soccer and the organization, visit arizonadisabledsports.com.