To provide year-round training and athletic competition in a variety of sports at the state, regional, national, and international level for developing and elite athletes. To assist athletes in developing physical fitness, sportsmanship, and self-esteem. Goals To provide deaf and hard of hearing children and adults with opportunities to compete with their peers as well as the larger society of athletes worldwide. Through the United States Olympic Committee's National Governing bodies, the USA Deaf Sports Federation produces competitive United States Teams at the World Games for the Deaf. The USA Deaf Sports Federation's activities contribute to the physical, social, and psychological development of deaf and hard of hearing athletes.
Recreational pursuits provide for an enriched social environment, friendships, and new activities.
History The Akron Club of the Deaf in Ohio sponsored the first national basketball tournament in 1945, at which time it established the American Athletic Union of the Deaf. The organization was later renamed the American Athletic Association of the Deaf, and in 1997, the USA Deaf Sports Federation. In 1952, the Hall of Fame was established. Athletes of the Year have been selected each year since 1955. The use of hearing aids is prohibited in competitions.