NEW sports training facility opens for disabled athletes

The Lakeshore Foundation in Homewood just opened a new Sports Science and Performance Center tailored to disabled athletes. We took a tour and heard from the leaders who made the project possible—here’s what we learned.

Lakeshore Sports Science and Performance Center will be an incredible resource

The opening of the Lakeshore Sports Science and Performance Center (SSPC) marks a significant leap forward in Para and disability sports training.

“Something that sets apart Lakeshore SSPC from other training facilities is the fact that it is tailored to adaptive athletes. That is something that I personally have never had access to.”

Adaptive athlete, SSPC

The new facility is committed to providing holistic training and sports performance services for athletes on all levels.

Recognizing a gap in facilities and services made specifically for disabled athletes, the SSPC offers cutting-edge technology, customized programs and a training haven for athletes to maximize their potential.

Brian Bell, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist who started training at the Lakeshore Foundation when he was 12 years old, attended the grand opening and expressed how special this center is going to be.

“Having a training facility like Lakeshore is the reason I’ve made it as far as I have. This new facility is going to be an incredible resource. I am looking forward to seeing how it’s utilized and how the next generation is going to continue on this journey.”

Brian Bell, Paralympic gold medalist, Team USA

A training haven for adaptive athletes

Athletes with and without physical disabilities will have access to Lakeshore SSPC, its services and online resources, including:

• Performance testing + data analysis
• Strength + conditioning
• A fully accessible nutrition lab
• Nutrition consulting
• Mental performance coaching

As I was touring the space, one of the coolest parts was the nutrition lab. In the SSPC’s sports nutrition program, athletes will be able to learn the ins and outs of how nutrition impacts their performance as well as how to incorporate effective eating habits into their lives.

• Location: 4000 Ridgeway Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 5:30 AM–7:30 PM | Saturday, 7 AM–3 PM | Closed Sunday
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