Local Nonprofit Represents the Only Program Recipient to Be Honored Three Times

BlazeSports America, a nonprofit organization founded after the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games and a leader in the field of adaptive sports and recreation, today announced its recognition as the 2025 Rings of Gold Award winner. The USOPC honors BlazeSports for its comprehensive youth programs, designed to empower youth with disabilities and nurture confidence, independence, and opportunity.

The Rings of Gold Awards annually recognize both an individual and a program dedicated to helping children develop their Olympic or Paralympic dreams and reach their highest athletic and personal potential. This award highlights BlazeSports’ unwavering commitment to provide a space where adaptive athletes can feel seen, supported, and empowered through intentional programming.

“We are honored to receive this year’s Rings of Gold Program Award. Over the past three decades, BlazeSports has created spaces where youth with disabilities can dream big, build confidence, and discover their strength in the field of play,” says Dawn Churi, Executive Director of BlazeSports. “Each year, we welcome over 1,000 participants in wheelchair basketball, track and field, swimming, and tennis – each athlete bringing a story, incredible perseverance, and big dreams. This award celebrates our athletes, our community, and the opportunity to continue empowering youth to reach their highest potential. Thank you to the USOPC and to everyone who makes BlazeSports possible.”

BlazeSports serves youth, adult, and veteran athletes with physical challenges. Its programs provide athletes the opportunity to compete alongside each other and increase their independence and success. Blaze currently offers 14 weekly programs and hosts annual events, including the Peachtree Paragames; Triumph of the Human Spirit Awards Gala; Big Peach Slam Jam Wheelchair Basketball Tournament; and more.

BlazeSports is the only program recipient to be honored by the USOPC three times. The organization was previously recognized in 2016 and 2017. The Rings of Gold Awards were presented on September 25 at the 2025 Olympic & Paralympic Assembly in Salt Lake City. Dawn Churi accepted the award on behalf of BlazeSports.

For more information about BlazeSports’ programs or how to get involved in the organization, please visit www.blazesports.org. For more information about the Rings of Gold Award recognition, please visit https://www.usopc.org/community-awards.

About BlazeSports America

BlazeSports America is the direct legacy 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games serving children, youth, and Veterans with disabilities through programs, training and education initiatives. Based in Atlanta and a three-time winner of the US Olympic Committee’s Rings of Gold for impactful programs, BlazeSports is a member of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee - Affiliate Organization Council, and a USA Member Organization of World Ability Sport. BlazeSports America will celebrate its 30^th anniversary in 2026. For more information visit www.blazesports.org and follow us on Facebook/Twitter: @blazesports, Instagram: @blazesportsamerica.

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