The Sacramento County Chargers have been helping participants reach their athletic potential, make lifelong friendships, undergo new experiences and learn new skills for 40 years!
Organized and coached by Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS), a division of Sacramento County Regional Parks, the Sacramento County Chargers are a sports-training team that provides opportunities for training and competitions, which are generally hosted by Special Olympics or V.I.P. (Very Inspirational People) for teams throughout Sacramento County.
"The Chargers started in 1983 with approximately 45 athletes for track and field," said Tom Hoefler, an original member of the Chargers family. "The Chargers sports in the first year were bowling, basketball, track/field, swimming and softball.
"We took part in what used to be the State Games. Some of the most memorable competitions were softball teams taking part in the State Games in 1987 and 1993, and a basketball team taking part in the State Games in 1990," said Tom. "The Chargers even went to Hawaii for the Special Olympics in 1985."
Currently, TRS serves approximately 150 athletes in the following sports: basketball, track and field, swimming, bocce, softball, soccer, bowling and floor hockey.
Each sports season generally lasts between six-eight weeks, with one or two competitions per sport. Athletes ages eight and up of all skill levels are accepted, depending on the sport and competition rules.
To learn more about the Chargers,
visit their website. To get involved with TRS,
visit the Regional Parks website.
