Rocket City Adapted Athletics Makes History at First Competitive Tournament

Mark White | The Mark White Show

Huntsville, Alabama - Rocket City Adapted Athletics reached a major milestone this weekend as the Rocket City Rockets competed in their first tournament in program history at the Big Peach Slam Jam in Emerson, Georgia.

Founded by Coach Chase Woods, Rocket City Adapted Athletics was created to provide young people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in wheelchair basketball while building confidence, independence, and teamwork. After years of planning, practice, and growth, the program officially stepped onto the tournament floor alongside established teams from across the country.

The Big Peach Slam Jam, one of the largest wheelchair basketball tournaments in the nation, brought together nationally ranked teams and emerging programs alike. For the Rocket City Rockets, the weekend marked a transition from practice-based development to competitive play.

In their final game, the Rockets faced the Charlotte Rollin’ Hornets, falling 14 to 6. Despite the loss, the team showed measurable progress, setting a program record with six rebounds and displaying improved ball movement, defensive effort, and teamwork throughout the game.

Lawson led the Rockets with six points and added one rebound and one steal. Kira recorded two rebounds, while Caiden pulled down three rebounds. Every athlete contributed through hustle, communication, and steady improvement across the weekend.

Coach Woods emphasized that the experience extended far beyond the scoreboard.

“This was about growth,” Woods said. “Seeing the kids gain confidence, respond to coaching, and come together as a team was what mattered most.”

Rocket City Adapted Athletics began without a gym, equipment, or funding, relying instead on community support and a long-term vision. The first tournament appearance validated years of behind-the-scenes work and highlighted the impact of adapted sports in the lives of young athletes and their families.

The Rockets are already preparing for their next competition, with another tournament scheduled in Louisville, Kentucky, January 17th and 18th. As the program continues to grow, Woods hopes increased awareness and community involvement will allow more young athletes to find opportunity through adapted athletics.

For Rocket City Adapted Athletics, the Big Peach Slam Jam was not just a tournament appearance. It marked the beginning of a new chapter.

More tournaments are ahead, and the foundation has been firmly set.

For more information and to support the effort, visit RocketCityAdaptedAthletics.org. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.