In 1996, the Surgeon General’s Report on Physical Activity and Health documented research that indicated men and women of all ages and abilities can improve their quality of life through regular moderate physical activity. Although there are public policies in place to safeguard the educational and civil rights of people with disabilities, individuals - particularly youth - face limited access to the range of activities, programs, and services that promote healthy living.  

Read more at http://www.ncpad.org/397/2171/The~Rationale~and~Benefits~of~Sport~Participation~for~Youth~
of~All~Abilities.