The multi-tier Excellence Programme is designed to support Paralympic sport clubs as they develop their sport programming in areas such as athlete identification and coaching education, and recognise their contributions to the growing Paralympic Movement in the United States.

A total of 24 clubs were recognised when the Excellence Programme was launched in 2013, while this year, a further 13 clubs across the US achieved excellence for the first time or moved up a level from last year.

"At the United States Olympic Committee, we are committed to supporting US Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained competitive excellence," said Rick Adams, USOC chief of Paralympic sport and National Governing Body (NGB) organisational development.

"We are proud to recognise the Paralympic sport clubs that have achieved their own excellence by working locally to help develop athletes and coaches from grassroots to the Paralympic Games.

"The continued commitment we receive from our local partners makes US Paralympics athletes and coaches stronger on all levels."

Rick Adams, USOC chief of Paralympic sport and NGB organisational development, says the NOC of the United States is "committed to supporting US Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained competitive excellence" ©USOC



Participating clubs are ranked at bronze, silver and gold levels, from a basic provider of Paralympic programming - bronze level - to an elite provider - gold level.

When a Paralympic sport club completes a level, the club is eligible to receive an award.

Clubs designated as gold or silver receive a stipend for programming, while bronze-level clubs receive recognition banners.

For a complete list of clubs participating in the Excellence Program and their level, click here.

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