TAMPA, Fla. – Adult athletes with physical disabilities have a shot at making the roster for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wheelchair Football Team during open tryouts this weekend. The tryouts are scheduled for Saturday, June 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The event takes place at the Lesley “Les” Miller, Jr. All People’s Community Park & Life Center, located at 6105 E. Sligh Ave. in Tampa.
Managed through the Adaptive Sports division of Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, the team competes directly in the USA Wheelchair Football League. This league represents the first nationwide competitive football network specifically designed for adults with physical disabilities. The upcoming 2026 season features a four-tournament travel schedule with stops in Chicago, Phoenix, Atlanta, and Dallas.
To qualify for the squad, interested players must meet a specific set of criteria. Applicants must be at least 18 years old by Aug. 1, 2026, and have a permanent physical disability that consistently limits lower limb function. Players are also required to use an elite performance sport wheelchair; however, the league will provide assistance in securing an approved chair for those who do not currently own one.
Roster spots require a commitment to a weekly schedule and travel. Selected athletes must attend at least one practice per week between June 24 and Nov. 1, with team practices held on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Players must also be available to travel to all national league competitions, with all associated travel expenses fully covered by the team.
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