About us

We are a non-profit organization, based out of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide a variety of recreational and competitive sport opportunities to para athletes, coaches and volunteers.

Our mission is to facilitate sport opportunities from the developmental to the elite level of participation, in the areas of athletic competition, technical development, leadership, and integration.

UPSA is governed by a board of directors, comprised of volunteers, which oversee the day-to-day operations of the organisation.

The Board of Directors consist of representatives from a variety of sports. Our organisation also includes Sports Coordinators who oversee specific sports and coaches for these sports.

Our Beliefs

People with disabilities should have the same access to sport and physical activity
Para sport is important because of its intrinsic and extrinsic benefits to participants
Para athletes should be recognized for their ability, not their disability

Our Goals

Provide opportunities in para sport and physical activity
Promote disability awareness and acceptance of para athletes
Facilitate for inclusion of para athletes
Support all levels of athletes and coaches

Who We Are

Steve Ellefson

-President

-Former 4x Paralympian in Alpine Skiing and Wheelchair Racing

-Former World Combined Champion in Alpine Skiing

-Level 3 NCCP Coach in Athletics

-Wheelchair user for 40+ years

-UPSA’s compass

Suzanna Tangen

-Executive Director

-Current National Team Handcyclist

-Master’s Degree in Adapted Physical Activity

-UPSA’s polymath

Joanne Lee

-Volunteer Coordinator

-Recently retired from career in U.S. corporate tax

-Involved with UPSA for several years, since my husband joined the handcycling program

-Scrape-up person on Cycling Tour rides

The Jr. Para Cross Country program with the Ultimate Para Sports Association completely opened a world of opportunity to our son this winter. I remember him excitedly saying after the first time, “Mom, they have equipment for kids just like me! I get to use poles and they have a seat. This is my favourite sport!”

- Happy Parent

UPSA has made me feel I belong. From an amazing well put together organization to an incredible group of people who form it. Having a disability does not stand in the way of being active and achieving your goals is the take away of being a part of this team. Everyone works together to find solutions to make every session in any activity fun. There are no barriers here. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

- Kas