Rochester Rookies receives contribution

Western Region's Rochester Rookies Jr. Wheelchair Sports Team has been awarded a $1,000 gift as part of the Rochester Press-Radio Club's charitable giving program.

The purpose of the Rookies is to provide, promote and develop opportunities for children with disabilities to participate in recreational and competitive wheelchair sports. These include field events, club and softball toss, discus, shot put and javelin. Track competition, slalom (wheelchair obstacle course), swimming and weight training are also included. Children with physical disabilities, 7-21 years of age participate in the program.

Founded in 1976 by Paralympic Gold Medalist, JoAnn Armstrong of Hilton, the team is a junior affiliate of Wheelchair Sports USA. Athletes compete at a local, regional, national and world level.

Armstrong serves as the program's director, Gregg Chalmers is head coach, assisted by Monica Whalen plus volunteers, many being SUNY Brockport College students studying Adaptive Physical Education, Physical Therapy and Medicine.