LMK 8th Grader Excels at Burke Wheelchair Games

From the Harrison Central School District:

Joana Ayala had never competed in track and field athletic events. She had never seen events like shot put, javelin or discus.

Yet, she placed second in those events at her inaugural entry into the Burke Rehabilitation Wheelchair Games after only three weeks of practice.

Ayala, who uses a wheelchair because of spina bifida, is a natural born athlete. Since she was a kindergartener at Purchase Elementary, she has loved to play basketball, but finds that there are not a lot of other girls who do. She also loves swimming, box ball, badminton and her new love – ping pong.

“She is extremely strong and very coordinated,” said Jeanette Monaco, Ayala’s physical education teacher. “She seems like a natural to me.”

Monaco was so convinced that Ayala had a natural talent that she researched options that would provide her with the opportunity to compete. At first, Monaco was uncertain as to whether the Burke Rehabilitation Wheelchair Games would be open to participants outside of White Plains. But she discovered that the games were open to people from all over the country in five separate categories—young children, older children, young adults and two groups for those ages 45-65.

Together they began training. Monaco would watch videos of other wheelchair athletes to determine the proper techniques for the events, Ayala would enthusiastically practice.

Their “always try, never say never” attitude was not only effective but infectious. In her age group, Ayala was the runner-up to the national champion who had already competed many times.

Ayala has an amazing support system, from her parents and Monaco and her husband, to her aide Paula Berardi, who always encourages her “to try it just once".

Director of Special Education Susan Lockhart and Ayala’s fourth grade teacher from Purchase Elementary, Angela Ader, were at the Burke Wheelchair Games to see her compete for the first time. Ayala expressed thanks for all that this group does.

When asked if she will compete again, she merely smiled as her eyes twinkled with joy. In addition to her athletic prowess, Ayala is also an accomplished violinist.

Maybe her next chapter will include performing Antonio Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons”, or rallying with tennis champion Rafael Nadal, or maybe even competing in the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2016.

“Most of all I want to thank myself for being proud of my accomplishments,” said Ayala. “Never say never.”