Ottobock and Atlanta Falcons Launch Official Adaptive Mobility Partnership
In a groundbreaking initiative, Ottobock, a pioneer in prosthetics and mobility solutions, has teamed up with the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, marking the first-ever official adaptive mobility partnership in professional sports. The collaboration aims to enhance accessibility and mobility for individuals in the adaptive community, culminating in the inaugural Adaptive Sports Day scheduled for September 19 at Meadowcreek Mustangs Stadium in Norcross, Georgia.
This multi-year agreement represents a significant step toward fostering inclusivity in sports, providing hands-on programming tailored for amputees and individuals with mobility challenges. The Adaptive Sports Day will feature expert coaching from Ottobock clinicians as well as former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver, Michael Haynes. The event is designed not just as a clinic but as a transformative experience where participants will engage in dynamic running activities, learn about their prosthetic options, and practice essential techniques for improving their movement.
Lucas Crisanti, a prosthetic clinical specialist and global running clinic coach at Ottobock, expressed the organization’s commitment to making sports accessible to everyone. He stated, "Movement and sport are fundamental human rights. Prosthetic users deserve the opportunity to participate, pursue their goals, and experience the physical, mental, and social benefits that sport provides." The day promises to empower participants, guiding them through a full progression of activities including product fittings, gait evaluations, and football drills alongside the Falcons organization.
In addition to the Adaptive Sports Day, one participant from the event will be selected to travel to Madrid with a guest to represent Ottobock at an upcoming Falcons game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This unique experience will not only highlight the achievements of adaptive athletes but also showcase the power of sports in creating community connections. The selected ambassador will document their journey on social media, sharing insights and experiences with the Ottobock adaptive community.
Dana Harple, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at AMB Sports and Entertainment, shared her perspective on the importance of this partnership. "At AMB Sports and Entertainment, we believe sports have the power to bring people together and create opportunities for everyone to participate and thrive," she noted. This partnership reflects a steadfast commitment to inclusion, aiming to uplift and connect various communities within Atlanta.
For nearly 40 years, Ottobock has been a steadfast supporter of athletes with disabilities, working alongside Paralympians and adaptive sports enthusiasts. Their mission has always revolved around enhancing mobility and freedom, providing tailored solutions that cater to the unique needs of each individual.
Founded in Berlin in 1919, Ottobock has made significant strides in the fields of prosthetics, neuro-orthotics, and exoskeleton technology. With operations in 45 countries and a robust network of patient care clinics, the company is at the forefront of innovation in medical technology. Their commitment to community engagement is further evident through initiatives like the recent partnership with the Atlanta Falcons.
The Atlanta Falcons, established in 1965, have become a leading team in the NFL under the ownership of Arthur M. Blank. Playing their home games at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Falcons prioritize not only athletic excellence but also social responsibility and community involvement.
This partnership signals a new era of sports where inclusivity is paramount and where brands like Ottobock and franchises like the Atlanta Falcons take significant strides toward making sports and movement accessible to all. With events such as the Adaptive Sports Day, the hope is to inspire individuals to embrace their potential and engage actively in sports, proving that mobility and athletic participation are within everyone's reach.