All Ability Academy
Sports and movement enrichment where young people can practice skills, make choices, build relationships and contribute to a team.
In partnership with Throwback Sports
Who Participates
Middle school, high school and transition-age participants with varied learning, communication, sensory, physical and social-emotional support needs. Relevant to District 75, community schools and similar nonprofit or community settings.
10+
Core Sessions
Expandable to 12 or 15
12
Max Participants
Per session cohort
60
Minutes
Per session
5
Pillars
Movement to belonging
Five Pillars
Movement & Athletic Development
Skill practice, physical engagement and athletic growth at every participant's own pace and ability level.
Confidence & Self-Development
Repeated opportunities to try, choose and succeed build a genuine sense of capability and self-worth.
Communication & Social Connection
Structured interaction through sport creates natural moments for connection, expression and mutual understanding.
Leadership & Independence
Meaningful roles within the group give participants real responsibility and a chance to lead.
Community & Belonging
Every session reinforces that each participant is a valued member of the team and the broader Cadets Rising community.
The Session Experience
Each session follows a familiar, predictable arc that supports engagement and reduces anxiety.
Familiar Welcome
Consistent opening routines establish safety and signal the start of the session.
Movement Warm-Up
Accessible warm-up activities prepare participants physically and socially.
Guided Practice
Skill instruction with modeling, repetition and individualized support.
Small-Group Activity
Accessible cooperative tasks in small groups encourage communication and shared decision-making.
Cooperative Game
A team game where every participant has a meaningful role and contribution.
Closing Reflection
Brief structured closing reinforces learning, celebrates effort and previews the next session.
Access options: Options include seated/standing movement, varied equipment, AAC/sign/gesture and quieter participation.
Michael "Mike" Cohen
Founder & Coach, Throwback Sports
M.S. Movement Science, Columbia University Teachers College · M.S. Special Education, NYU · NYS-Certified PE & Special Education Teacher
Michael "Mike" Cohen
Founder & Coach, Throwback Sports
Throwback
Sports
Michael "Mike" Cohen is the founder and coach of Throwback Sports, established in 1998. He holds master's degrees in Movement Science from Columbia University Teachers College and Special Education from New York University, and is a New York State-certified physical education and special education teacher with extensive experience in schools, camps and recreation.
Mike's work connects sports participation with everyday opportunities to cooperate, build confidence and take responsibility. Throwback Sports offers traditional and original activities across youth, teen and adult programs. Its emphasis on skill practice and community provides a foundation for accessible recreation that respects each participant's interests and pace.
Within the Cadets Rising All Ability Academy partnership, Mike's educational background informs movement programming and practical adaptation. His role supports an enrichment experience in which adolescents and young adults have meaningful ways to participate and lead. Specific assignments and staffing will be established through the partnership agreement.
Delivery & Planning
10 core sessions, expandable to 12 or 15 through additional practice and rehearsal. Planning example: 60 minutes, up to 12 participants, with staffing and access supports agreed locally. Cadence and dates are flexible.
AAA complements school programming and does not replace mandated special-education or therapeutic services.
What Staff Can Observe
Record concrete examples and supports used across these areas:
All Ability Team Celebration
The final session recognizes every participant's contribution through familiar activities. Family attendance is optional. The celebration is designed to be a meaningful, low-pressure close that honors each individual's journey through the program.
Next step: Arrange a site planning conversation to confirm the cohort, access, staffing and calendar.
Bring the All Ability Academy to Your School
Designed for District 75, community schools and similar settings. Contact us to arrange a site planning conversation and confirm the cohort, access, staffing and calendar.