The difference in rehab is Burke
Hope through Rehabilitation & Research
Burke Rehabilitation Hospital has had a wheelchair table tennis program since 1980, attracting players for competition, exercise and camaraderie from the greater New York metropolitan area. Training and coaching is provided by professional coach Peizhen Shao, who was the Women’s National Champion in China for three successive years. She instructs players on an individual basis. Burke athletes have competed in the Paralympic Games in Athens, Sydney, Atlanta, Barcelona, and Seoul, winning Gold, Silver and Bronze medals.
A group of able-bodied volunteers train and compete along with players who have a disability. There are no major changes in the rules of this sport for players who use a wheelchair. It is one of the only sports that the non-disabled and individuals with disabilities can enjoy and compete on an equal level.
New members are always welcome! Free practice sessions for disabled people are held year round on Saturdays from 2 to 6 p.m. There is no charge to join the team , but we ask that players register. Signed parental permission is required for all players under 18 years of age.
For further information call Joanne Auerbach, CTRS, Director of Therapeutic Recreation, at (914) 597-2248.