About The Sports Association
Dedicated to helping people with physical disabilities experience the benefits of adaptive sports, recreation and fitness
The Gaylord Sports Association offers the most diverse adaptive sports program in the state of Connecticut with over fifteen different sports. Programs range from introductory clinics to competitive sports teams. Our team of dedicated staff, coaches and volunteers provide instruction, adaptive equipment and activity modification with an individualized approach to maximize the independence of each participant. We strive to provide a safe, fun and supportive environment for all participants and their families. Instruction is based on each participant’s level of ability and skill. We serve individuals ages 16 and up with a permanent physical disability or visual impairment and welcome everyone from casual beginners to competitive athletes.
Our goal is to assist participants in gaining the confidence, independence and skills to meet their adaptive sports goals. We believe adaptive sports can inspire individuals to overcome obstacles and lead a happier and healthier life.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to improving the lives of persons with physical disabilities through adaptive sports and recreation.
Our Vision
The Sports Association strives to provide diverse and high quality adaptive sports and recreation programs, support Paralympic progression, and offer opportunities for our members to experience adaptive sports and recreation.
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Meet Our Staff
Katie Joly, MS, CTRS
Sports Association Program Manager
Katie started her career in Therapeutic Recreation as an intern at Gaylord in 2000, and has been part of the Gaylord family since! She currently serves as the Program Manager for the Gaylord Sports Association and loves helping people discover their abilities through adaptive sports and recreation. Katie is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) as well as a Level 1 USA Waterski Instructor, Level 1 USA Archery Instructor and Level 1 US Masters Swimming Certified Coach. Katie holds a Master’s of Science Degree from Southern Connecticut State University in Parks and Recreation Management and a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Therapeutic Recreation Service from the University of Connecticut. In her leisure time, you may find her backcountry skiing, ice climbing, mountain biking, hiking, water-skiing or off on an adventure with her husband and son.
Rosa de Sousa, CTRS
Adaptive Sports Program Specialist, Per Diem
Rosa has practiced recreation therapy for over two decades and takes pride in being a per diem staff member at Gaylord for over twenty years. Rosa’s per diem role includes working as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with in-patients at Gaylord as well as assisting with adaptive sports programs throughout the year. She is a Level 1 Reiki Practitioner. In her full-time role, she works as a paraprofessional in an elementary school. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation and Leisure from Southern Connecticut State University. During her free time she enjoys walking, music, exploring new restaurants, crafting and traveling.
Chris Mallinson
Adaptive Sports Program Aide
Chris has been part of the Gaylord family for over 30 years! He started as a volunteer and shortly thereafter became a residential rehab aide at the Traurig House where he worked for over 25 years. In 2011, he joined the Therapeutic Recreation team as a rehab aide where he assists with the delivery of recreation services to in-patients at Gaylord Hospital. He also works with the Gaylord Sports Association assisting with preparation and delivery of adaptive sports programs. Chris obtained an Associate’s Degree in Human Services from Naugatuck Valley Community College. Chris enjoys outdoor activities and sports such as fishing, bike riding and basketball with his son.
Debbie Gibilaro
Adaptive Sports Program Specialist
Gaylord Sports Association Coaches
Chris Balsley
Golf Coach
Dominic Colavito
Wheelchair Rugby Coach
Brian Cooper
Kayak Coach
Judy Cooper
Kayak Coach
Frank Corso
Archery Coach
Trevor Doyon
Sled Hockey Team Coach
Mercurio Evangelista
Tennis Coach
Pierre Fallot
Boxing Coach
Jay Greenberg
Golf Coach
Kimberly Hopkins. PT, DPT
Exercise for Life. Program Coordinator
Steve Joly
Waterski Coach
Gary Kendall
Golf Coach
Doug Levens
Paratriathlon Coach
Corey Podbielski
Sled Hockey Team Coach
Frank Selva
PGA Professional, Golf Coach
Karen Smith
Sled Hockey Team Manager
Rebecca Smith, M.S. CTRS, 500 E-RYT
Yoga Coach
Al Steiger
Golf Coach
Phuong Trinh
Exercise Specialist for Exercise for Life