By Ilah Coe, BS Recreation and Leisure Services
Navigating the world is tough for anyone. Navigating a world that does not understand you is even harder. Then, adding the complexities of a disability to the mix takes things to a whole other level.
Individuals with disabilities live in a world that is not meant for them. For generations, certain groups of people have been “taught” to live in a world the way “society” thinks they should. In truth, we can create a world where individuals with disabilities are not just accommodated but empowered to thrive. One of the most incredible things we can do as human beings is to be inclusive and accommodating. Being aware is always the first step. Creating spaces for everyone is powerful, especially for the disability community.
When there is a need, the best thing anyone can do is help fill that need. Parks and Recreation professionals provide fun and life-building experiences through sports, special events, and a wide range of classes for their communities. Adaptive and inclusive recreation is an amazing sector in that industry. I have dedicated myself to helping build programs to give local, older teens and adults with disabilities a space for them to be themselves truly! With our Social Nights, everyone who attends gets to enjoy dancing, refreshments, and, of course, socializing! It is always a great night.
Each month is themed to add to the vibes! Art Classes have also been incredible, bringing individuals together and letting them be creative and express themselves!
Along with socializing, being involved is an excellent way to build friendships, stay active, and try new things. I have been so fortunate to help plan and work our local Miracle League Baseball games during the summer. Our buddy program brings together a diverse group of individuals who are committed to the program and assist athletes during practice and game times. There have been many buddy/athlete relationships that have developed into friendships and have continued to grow with each season of our local Miracle League.
Another sport that has been on the rise for athletes with disabilities is CheerAbilities. CheerAbilities is a division of competitive All-Star Cheerleading. This division gives athletes the chance to compete alongside their peers. Not only do they compete locally, but they also have the opportunity to compete at major competitions like the All-Star Cheerleading Worlds in Orlando, Florida where hundreds of teams from around the world come together to compete. There is no maximum age for this division, so a lot of the Elite CheerAbility teams include older teens and adult athletes.
All Star Cheer is not your typical “rah-rah”, pom pom shaking, sideline cheerleading. It is a stamina-based sport where athletes are tumbling, jumping, and throwing teammates in the air (talk about trust) non-stop for 2 minutes and 30 seconds. That may not seem like a lot of time, but there are 8- and 9-year-olds who are training harder than any adult just to accomplish their tumbling skills. There is a 16-year-old who is in the cheer gym 5 days a week training to be stronger for their team and for the opportunity to be recruited to cheer in college. Each team practices 4-10 hours a week, perfecting their routine and skills. Skills are adjusted and upgraded throughout the season to add to their difficulty. Athletes as young as five all the way to adults participate in All-Star Cheer and train year-round. Their season is usually ten out of the 12 months of the year. CheerAbility athletes may have different paths than their peers, but they are still being given the opportunity to train to be just as strong and amazing.
As a coach for an Exhibition Team and an Elite Team, I give each team and each athlete multiple challenges to work towards throughout the season, whether it is a new tumbling skill or a new stunt. No matter the diagnosis, each athlete has strengths they do not know about. I get to help them realize their potential and give them moments in the routine to shine on stage!
Each athlete is MORE than capable. Some athletes were told they would never walk but now they are doing forward rolls and handstands. Some athletes are naturally strong so now they are learning how to use their strength through stunts and harder tumbling skills. Athletes with disabilities will accomplish whatever you give them. All they need is someone who believes in them and the tools to accomplish the challenge. Also, similar to Miracle League baseball, the buddy system has been an incredible program to build inclusivity within the gym and outside of cheer. Our buddies assist athletes at practice and on stage at competitions. Our buddies commit to CheerAbilities just as they have committed to their own competitive team/s!
Everyone deserves a chance to play, to connect, and to shine. Through adaptive recreation and intentional inclusion, we can help individuals with disabilities find not only support, but also purpose and pride. Together, we can create communities where everyone belongs.
Inclusivity can change the world.
Join us from September 24-26, 2025, for an unparalleled opportunity to sharpen your skills and elevate your practice. This dynamic program features:
Interactive Exercises:
-Apply what you learn in real-time.
-Engaging Group Discussions: Share insights and learn from your peers.
-Practical Case Studies: Tackle real-world scenarios to build confidence.
Plus, earn a significant 19.5 CEs to boost your professional development!
Space is limited —Register here: https://www.pathlms.com/cmsa/courses/45993
Bio: Ilah Coe is a dedicated leader in the field of adaptive and inclusive recreation, currently serving as Program Coordinator for the DeWitt Area Recreation Authority (DARA) in DeWitt, Michigan. A 2011 graduate of Marshall University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Ilah specializes in the development and implementation of recreational programs that promote accessibility, engagement, and community integration for individuals with disabilities and older adults.
Over the past eight years, Ilah has played a pivotal role in expanding Michigan’s adaptive cheerleading landscape. She founded and coaches one of the state’s largest All Star CheerAbilities programs, which includes both an exhibition and an elite team. Under her leadership, the elite team has twice advanced to The Cheerleading Worlds in Orlando, Florida, where they earned finalist recognition among international competitors.
Ilah’s professional journey includes experience across multiple states, including North Carolina, West Virginia, Ohio, and Arizona, where she completed a specialized internship in adaptive recreation. For the past 11 years, she has established deep roots in Michigan, building collaborative relationships with organizations such as the Mid-Michigan Autism Association and the Capital Area Down Syndrome Association.
A strong advocate for inclusion, Ilah is committed to expanding access to quality recreational programming that supports the physical, emotional, and social well-being of all individuals—particularly those with disabilities. Her work reflects a deep belief that inclusive communities are stronger, healthier, and more compassionate.
In addition to her professional achievements, Ilah is the proud mother of two young children, who inspire her daily to champion opportunities for all families to connect, grow, and thrive.