GameTime is proud to be among the sponsors of the Move United Hartford Nationals in Hoover, Alabama. The Hartford Nationals is the largest and longest-standing national sport championship event for athletes with a physical, visual, and/or intellectual disability. The 2023 event, scheduled for July 8-14, marks the 66th year of competition. Athletes must qualify to compete through one of more than two dozen local or regional Move United Sanctioned Competitions, a National Governing Body or High School Athletic Association sanctioned event, or other held across the country event approved by Move United.
A Competition that Celebrates All Athletes
A national competition for adult athletes began in 1957 and continued through 1995. Youth athletes were able to compete starting in 1985 and that event still continues today. Those two events are now merging together in 2023. This will encourage adult athletes, warfighters, and Paralympians to join the existing youth competitors.
“There is a real need for additional opportunities for adaptive athletes over the age of 22 to not only come together but also to compete,” said Move United Executive Director Glenn Merry. “We are excited to provide a platform for all athletes in our community to showcase their talent starting next year.”
With more than 400 athletes with disabilities and coaches expected to participate, the weeklong event includes competitions, clinics, education and social opportunities. The sports that will be contested include archery, para powerlifting, paratriathlon, shooting, swimming, track and field, and wheelchair tennis.
Choosing the Host City
Move United selected the City of Hoover to host the 2023 and 2024 competition after a nationwide bid process. The local organizing committee that will host and spearhead the event include the City of Hoover, Lakeshore Foundation, and Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“As one of the most diverse cities in Alabama, the City of Hoover makes an intentional effort to make sure everyone feels included and empowered,” says Hoover Mayor Frank V. Brocato. “We are excited to share our facilities with the Move United team and those of all abilities. We also look forward to welcoming all of the athletes to our area and showing them an experience filled with smiles and southern charm.”
Supporting Inclusive Recreation
GameTime's sponsorship of the 2023 Hartford Nationals aligns with an ongoing commitment to inclusive recreation for people of all ages and abilities. GameTime designed the inclusive playground that is located at the Hoover Sports Metroplex, home to the opening cermonies and much of the competition over the seven day event. It is one of the largest inclusive playgrounds in the state and is registered as a National Demonstration Site for inclusive play.
"GameTime has been a pioneer of the inclusive play and recreation movement for more than 40 years," said Kent Callison, Director of Marketing for GameTime. "When we learned Hoover was selected as the host city, we were eager to sponsor the event and lend support to the hundreds of athletes, coaches, and family members who will attend."
GameTime will provide hospitality and information tents at the Hoover Stadium during the welcome and opening cermonies and at the adjacent Hoover Explore incusive playground. Athletes and families can explore the playground and recreation areas between events, enjoy gourmet fruit popsicles, and learn how to bring inclusive recreation opportunities to their own communities.
