Lakewood Ranch Park Unveils Accessible VersaCourt Through Partnership With Ability to Include
Lakewood Ranch Park has expanded its recreational offerings with the addition of a new accessible VersaCourt, creating an inclusive space where people of all ages and abilities can play, exercise and compete together.
The modular athletic court features a firm, stable and slip-resistant surface designed to accommodate participants of all abilities, including individuals who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The court supports a wide range of activities, including wheelchair and traditional basketball, pickleball, adaptive physical education programs, inclusive fitness classes, youth camps and clinics, Special Olympics and adaptive sports programming, community events, and therapeutic recreation and rehabilitation programs.
The project was made possible through a partnership between Manatee County and the local nonprofit Ability to Include, which is dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to fully participate in community life.
Ability to Include said it is proud to partner with Manatee County to create truly inclusive spaces that benefit not only children and adults with disabilities, but the entire community. The organization will also host adaptive and inclusive sports programming at the new court, providing additional opportunities for residents of all abilities to stay active and connected.
The VersaCourt is open to the public and represents another step toward making Manatee County’s parks and recreational facilities more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
