September 12 - 16, 2016
Iowa City, IA
Previously a local program, this new national event provides legally blind and eligible disabled Veterans an opportunity to develop new skills and strengthen their self-esteem through adaptive golf and bowling events. Each year, the TEE Tournament uses a therapeutic format to promote rehabilitation, fellowship and camaraderie among participants. The event provides eligible Veterans with an opportunity to participate in therapeutic adaptive sporting activities which demonstrate that having a visual or physical disability need not be an obstacle to an active, rewarding life.
Applications are being accepted for the 2016 National Disabled Veterans TEE Tournament until June 1.
TEE Athlete Registration Application
Sponsors & Hosts
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Hosted by the Iowa City VA Medical Center, with support from community volunteers.
We are committed to improving the quality of life for Veterans with disabilities. Participants will develop sports skills and take part in a variety of adaptive sports workshops. Clinic participation demonstrates that having a physical or visual disability is not an obstacle to an active rewarding life.
Events
The four-day clinic consists of the TEE Golf Tournament, kayaking, horseback riding, and other adaptive sports workshops.
Location:
The clinic will be held in Iowa City, IA:
Eldon Miller has been teeing up at the National Veterans Training, Exposure, and Experience (TEE) Tournament since the program began 20 years ago.
Miller, an Army Veteran from Kalona, Iowa, was 21 years old in 1974 when he lost his vision after a truckload of ammunition exploded during a training exercise.
"You learn to depend a lot on your hearing," he said. "There are always different challenges you have to overcome."
In 1994, Miller was one of 36 Veterans to participate in the inaugural Veterans adaptive golf clinic in Nauvoo, Ill, an event that would eventually evolve into the National Veterans TEE Tournament.
Today, the program provides adaptive golf instruction and other physical activities for nearly 200 Veterans representing 33 states across the country.
"As a Veteran, you really look forward to these events," Miller said. "They keep you active and keep you motivated."
The National Veterans TEE Tournament is once again hosted by the Iowa City VA Healthcare System where Miller receives his care, including nearly 350 volunteers from the local community.
“Our local VA is so dedicated,” he said. “This is only possible because of them.”
Applications are being accepted for the 2016 National Disabled Veterans TEE Tournament until June 1.
TEE Athlete Registration Application
Eligibility:
Participation is open to U.S. military Veterans with visual impairments, amputations, traumatic brain injuries, psychological trauma, certain neurological conditions, spinal cord injuries and other disabilities, who receive care in any Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care facility.
Funding:
Contact the Veterans Affairs medical facilities' Voluntary Service or Recreation department where you receive care or a local Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for additional information.
What do I need to bring with me to the event?
Participants should bring clothes appropriate for the golf course, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, medication, personal identification and personal equipment (i.e. golf clubs, bowling ball).
For information or to request an application, please contact
Event Director:
Kirt Sickels
Phone: (319) 358-5963.
Communications Director:
Jordan Schupbach
(202) 664-3733
When Army Veteran Homer Hudnall, Jr lost his right leg, he thought it was over. But then, Homer discovered the therapeutic value of adaptive sports, and he hasn't looked back. Homer credits the National Veterans TEE Tournament with saving his life. Learn more about the TEE Tournament at www.tee.va.gov!