A new national program called the Racquetball Rehabilitation Clinics (RRC), sponsored by the Military Racquetball Federation (MRF), hosted a clinic at Arizona State University, Phoenix, February 15-16, for wounded service members to get back into the game. Twelve wounded warriors participated, including those with transtibial amputations, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, and other physical injuries and scarring. The local sponsor was Ability Dynamics, Tempe Arizona, and grant funding was provided by the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Rich Sainz prepares a serve at the racquetball clinic.
Photograph courtesy of Ability Dynamics.
Using a special technique for disabled veterans, RRC uses racquetball as a way to improve eye/hand coordination, reduce stress, and build confidence.
Rich Sainz, MA, CP, clinical manager for Ability Dynamics, and a transradial amputee, played at the clinic. “I’m passionate about encouraging other amputees to lead full, active lives,” he said.
“My work in the prosthetic industry has been very rewarding and our company fully supports and endorses the RRC for their groundbreaking work with veterans and amputees.”
Retired Lt. Cmdr. (U.S. Navy) Steven Harper, MRF executive director and founder of RRC, who taught the clinic, said he is “on a mission to help disabled service members thrive through the game of racquetball.”
