Children with visual impairments were Soaring with the Eagles recently during a LOF Adaptive annual Soaring with the Eagles water sports event designed for blind and visually impaired children. The Sandy-Hook based LOF Adaptive Skiers hosted the event from June 26 to 28, on Lake Zoar at Zoar Beach, 16 Roosevelt Drive, in Monroe. The only event of its kind in the state, the three-day water event specialized in teaching waterskiing and wakeboarding to the children. lofskiers@gmail.com or 203-426-0666.

The goal is to use water sports activities to enhance the physical fitness and independence of participants, giving them the opportunity to socialize with children who share a similar lifestyle. With guidance and instruction, the children could easily engage in and learn to wakeboard and waterski on their own, which not only enhances fitness but also builds their confidence, helping them in many aspects of daily life.

"LOF Adaptive Skiers started with a blind skier and we feel it's important, especially now as we celebrate our 25th year, to give back to those who helped us in our infancy," said Executive Director Joel Zeisler. "As we watch these kids partake in what some say is impossible and see the joy on their faces, we are reminded why we, as an adaptive sports organization are here." Soaring with the Eagles, as with other LOF events, is free of charge.

Established in 1992 by Mr Zeisler, a former national champion water ski jumper, LOF got its start after a Vietnam veteran contacted him to re-learn to waterski after a rocket-propelled grenade claimed his vision. This veteran not only was able to ski again but went on to win gold medals at both the World and US Disabled Water Ski Competitions.

Through transformative experiences LOF Adaptive Skiers and its volunteers have continued to carry out the original mission; empowering individuals through adaptive skiing; and are recognized nationally and internationally as a leader in adaptive waterskiing as they run one of the largest and safest adaptive water sports programs in the country. In addition to waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing, LOF Adaptive Skiers offers beginner level snow ski and snowboard instruction during the winter months.

For more information, contact LOF at