SAN ANTONIO – Over the weekend, 28 athletes from San Antonio received the opportunity to learn from a member of Team USA’s Power Soccer National team, enhancing their skills and building a community.

Power soccer enables players with disabilities to compete in motorized wheelchairs, playing matches with the ball traveling up to 35 miles per hour across the field.

“So many times you see people in wheelchairs, you think they can’t do certain things. But then you see us out on this court, and you see all the different amazing things that we can do,” said Team USA player Lexi Heer.

Heer, who started playing the sport at 5 years old, believes it’s a unique way for athletes with disabilities to embrace their competitive spirit. She hopes players can learn new skills, enhance their abilities, and discover valuable lessons through the game.

“I think the first part is for them to have fun and just being able to see the different abilities that they can do,” she said. “And so many times knowing every little intricate part of your chair.”

Jada Cano, a player on the STRAPS Scorpions, San Antonio’s Power Soccer team, has been involved in the sport since she was 5 years old. She mentioned that power soccer has provided her with the opportunity to showcase her competitive side.

“As a child growing up, I always wanted to play a sport and never could. And now it’s given me an opportunity to be able to play a sport,” she expressed. “I really want to up my level of play and grow as a player and an athlete, with my aspiration being on Team USA one day.”

STRAPS Scorpions head coach Jenn Weatherford explained that the sport involves four athletes competing against each other using metal guards attached to power chairs to kick, pass, and take shots with the ball.

“No matter the level of athletes or how long they’ve played, anyone can participate in power soccer,” Weatherford mentioned. “Most importantly, it’s about fostering new friendships and relationships.”

Rado Enev, a 13-year-old first-time player, expressed his excitement about finally having the chance to play a sport, something he has always desired but couldn’t do before.

“Two of my brothers, they play competitive sports. I always have to watch them. I never could play. But yeah, it’s really fun to be able to actually play sports and enjoy them as much as I want to.”

To discover more about what STRAPS does and ways to volunteer, click here.