History

In 1983 the Greater Oklahoma Wheelchair Athletic Association (GOWAA) organized as the dream of a young man named Von Miers who required the use of a wheelchair to participate in sports. Although Von had been involved in wheelchair sports while in college, he found no such opportunities once he took a job in Oklahoma City. So he convinced co-workers at the O’Donoghue Rehabilitation Institute to assist him in creating an organization in the metro area that would develop and promote recreational and competitive sports for athletes who require the use of a wheelchair to participate. He felt that through participation in sports, people would be able to develop positive self-esteem, self-confidence and a competitive spirit for a fulfilling and active life.

In 2005 GOWAA changed its name to the Greater Oklahoma Disabled Sports Association (GODSA) to include a wider range of disabilities and ages; however, its purpose remains the same. The Greater Oklahoma Disabled Sports Association (GODSA) offers both recreational and competitive opportunities for persons, junior and adults, with physical disabilities. The organization is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit under the IRS code and relies on individual and corporate donations, grant funding, private donations and fundraising activities to finance its programs.

GODSA has sent athletes, both adult and juniors to national competitions since 1987. Starting in 1988 we have had team members and coaches/team staff who have represented the USA at many international competitions over the years.

GODSA has hosted local, regional and national competitions in many sports since 1984, including the Junior National Wheelchair Championships in 1994. GODSA now works with the University of Central Oklahoma Disabled Sports and Events department to coordinate the wheelchair basketball and track/field competitions for the Endeavor Games for Athletes with Physical Disabilities in Edmond, OK each June. Over the years we have also hosted local and regional basketball tournaments through the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.

All of our programs are staffed by volunteers who help coordinate the facilities, coaches, and equipment needed for each sport. Private donation, grants, sales, attendance and membership fees, as well as in-kind donations fund the programs and activities.