Historic Launch of Adapted Sports at Argentina’s High Performance Games 2025
In a groundbreaking move,the inaugural Argentine High Performance Games (JADAR) will introduce adapted sports in 2025. This multi-sport event, scheduled from September 9 to 14, will unite over 3,000 athletes—both conventional and adapted—in a shared competitive space across Rosario, Rafaela, and Santa Fe. The JADAR marks the initial phase of the Olympic and Paralympic journey, culminating in the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
unprecedented Collaboration for Inclusion
José María Valladares, head of the Argentine Paralympic Committee (COPAR), revealed to Paradeportes that 17 adapted disciplines will be featured. “The JADAR represents a historic milestone, born from the joint efforts of COPAR and the Argentine olympic Committee (COA),” he stated. “Our goal is to create a nationwide event that fosters integration and shifts societal perceptions, emphasizing that sport is a unifying force.”
Diverse disciplines and Participant Numbers
The adapted sports lineup includes basketball, rugby, table tennis, tennis, boccia, athletics, swimming, powerlifting, taekwondo, judo, blind football, sports shooting, archery, sitting volleyball, cycling, triathlon, and equestrian. Valladares noted, “Approximately 650 individuals, including athletes, coaches, and Paralympic officials, will participate in these events.”
Preparation and Infrastructure
“COPAR has been diligently preparing for this event,” Valladares added. “we’ve assigned coordinators for each Paralympic sport and finalized technical manuals outlining provincial quotas. Additionally, we’ve conducted three site visits to Rosario to assess the venues, which will be shared with conventional sports but tailored to meet accessibility needs.”
Historic Inclusion: An Exclusive Interview on Argentina’s Adapted Sports Launch at JADAR 2025
Moderator: Good afternoon, and welcome to this special edition of Sporting perspectives. Today, we’re diving into a groundbreaking moment in sports history—the launch of adapted sports at Argentina’s High Performance games (JADAR) in 2025. Joining us is María Gómez, a retired Paralympic swimmer and advocate for inclusive sports. María, thank you for being here.
María Gómez: Thank you for having me. It’s an honor to discuss such a pivotal moment for sports in Argentina and beyond.
moderator: Let’s jump right in. The JADAR 2025 will feature 17 adapted disciplines, including swimming, blind football, and sitting volleyball. What are your thoughts on this lineup and its importance?
María Gómez: This lineup is nothing short of revolutionary. It showcases not only the diversity within adapted sports but also the commitment to inclusion. such as, disciplines like blind football and sitting volleyball require specialized infrastructure and training, which highlights the meticulous planning behind this event. It’s a testament to the hard work of COPAR and COA.
Moderator: José María Valladares, head of COPAR, emphasized that JADAR aims to shift societal perceptions and foster integration. Do you believe this event can achieve that?
María Gómez: Absolutely. Sport has a unique power to unite people, and JADAR’s model of bringing both conventional and adapted athletes together is a game-changer. It sends a message that ability isn’t a barrier to excellence. However, the real test will be in how the media and public engage with these events. Coverage and awareness are crucial to shifting perceptions.
Moderator: That’s an excellent point. Valladares also mentioned that venues will be shared with conventional sports but tailored for accessibility. Do you think this approach is sufficient, or should ther be separate, specialized facilities?
María Gómez: While shared venues are a step in the right direction, I believe there’s room for improvement.Accessibility isn’t just about ramps and elevators—it’s about ensuring that every athlete, regardless of ability, has the resources they need to perform at their best.Separate facilities could address this more effectively, but I understand the logistical and financial constraints. It’s a balancing act.
Moderator: Fair enough.Let’s talk about the athletes. Approximately 650 participants, including coaches and officials, are expected.What challenges do you foresee for these athletes as they prepare for JADAR?
María Gómez: Planning is key. Adapted athletes often face additional hurdles, such as limited access to specialized training and funding. I’m encouraged by COPAR’s efforts,like assigning coordinators for each sport and finalizing technical manuals,but more support is needed at the grassroots level. This event should inspire investment in local programs to nurture future talent.
Moderator: well said. Now, let’s open this discussion to our readers. what do you think about the inclusion of adapted sports at JADAR 2025? Do you believe it will have a lasting impact on sports in Argentina? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
María Gómez: I’d love to hear from the readers.This is a conversation that affects us all, and their perspectives matter.
Moderator: Before we wrap up, María, what advice would you give to young athletes aspiring to participate in events like JADAR?
María Gómez: My advice is simple: dream big and stay resilient. The road won’t always be easy,but moments like JADAR prove that opportunities are growing. Surround yourself with a supportive community, and never let anyone tell you what you can’t achieve.
Moderator: Wise words. María, thank you for your insights and for championing inclusive sports. And to our readers, don’t forget to join the conversation and share your thoughts. Until next time, this is Sporting Perspectives, signing off.
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Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the launch of adapted sports at JADAR 2025? Do you think it will inspire global change in sports inclusivity? Share your opinions in the comments below! Let’s keep this crucial conversation going.
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