Strategies to Facilitate Accessibility in Rowing for Individuals with Visual Impairments

Authors

  • Jason Rich
  • Lauren J. Lieberman
  • Pamela S. Beach
  • Melanie Perreault

Keywords:

Accommodations, feedback, modifications, psychological needs

Abstract

Regardless of competitive level, rowers experience physical, psychological, and social benefits from their participation in the sport. The inherent demands and characteristics of rowing allow for the sport to be accessible for individuals with visual impairments but only if coaches consider minimal, yet specific accommodations for those individuals. This article outlines strategies for accommodations and modifications for coaches to facilitate accessibility in rowing for individuals with visual impairments. These accommodations are primarily made through promoting “boat feel” and providing accessible, inclusive feedback. Despite the ability for coaches to provide accommodations, there is also a need for self-advocacy in rowers with visual impairments, so they can better communicate their accessibility needs with their coaches.

Author Biographies

Jason Rich

Jason Rich is an adjunct lecturer of Sport Psychology in the Department of Kinesiology, Sport Studies, and Physical Education at SUNY Brockport. His main interests are in examining coaches’ team selection practices and their motivational impact on athletes, as well as psychological consideration in collegiate rowing. 

Lauren J. Lieberman

Lauren J. Lieberman is a distinguished service professor of graduate and undergraduate adapted physical education at SUNY Brockport. Founder and Director of Camp Abilities Brockport. Author of over 140 peer-reviewed publications and 20 books. 

Pamela S. Beach

Pamela S. Beach is a professor of Motor Behavior in the Department of Kinesiology, Sport Studies, and Physical Education at SUNY Brockport. Her main interests are in motor skill development and balance across the lifespan in individuals with and without sensory impairments. She is also the co- director of the Institute for Movement Studies for Individuals with Visual Impairments. 

Melanie Perreault

Melanie Perreault is an associate professor of Motor Behavior in the Department of Kinesiology, Sport Studies, and Physical Education at SUNY Brockport. Her main areas of interest are motor learning in typically developing children and motor skill development in children with visual impairments and CHARGE syndrome. 

Published

2022-03-07

Issue

Section

Feature Articles