The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Lady Panthers basketball team conducted a most unusual clinic last month. Wheelchairs and crutches were a common sight as the team recognized National Disabilities Awareness month with an adaptive basketball clinic.

Clinic participants were children from the McKean County C.A.R.E. (Consultation, Adaptation, Rehabilitation, Education) for Children organization. C.A.R.E., formerly known as the Easter Seals & McKean County Society for Crippled Children, is a nonprofit group aimed at assisting children who are challenged with a variety of disabilities.

The Bradford Rotary Club sponsored the clinic, furnishing each child with a T-shirt, mini-basketball and a certificate of participation.

Dalyann Fuller, the Panthers' head coach, coordinated the clinic and adapted various skill-instruction sessions to meet the capabilities of the children.

"One of my goals as coach of the women's basketball team is to expose these young ladies to experiences outside of the gym that will make a positive impact on their lives," Fuller said. "As a member of this community and an example to my players, I wanted to give back to the area that embraced me in my childhood and teen-age years and support the youth of today."

Ms. Wheelchair Pennsylvania, Jessica M. McFarlane, was a celebrity guest for the clinic. McFarlane spoke to the children about self-esteem, the importance of education and reaching for their goals. McFarlane, who is 25 years old, is a special-education teacher and an online freelance writer who graduated from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

Many of the student-athletes who participated gained a new appreciation for people with disabilities and the challenges they face.

"When I was playing with the children and they smiled at me, it felt great," said Cara Booth, a freshman. "It was the little things that made them happy. I learned a lot from them, mainly not to take things for granted."

One of the senior student-athletes, Christa Robinson, agreed. "Watching the children open up and respond to us was a wonderful feeling," she said. "I really think we made a difference in their lives -- and in our own."

The clinic also celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law by former President Bush in 1990.

Ann Ambuske, the director of C.A.R.E., appreciated the efforts the team made with the children.

"The team really adapted to our children's needs and undoubtedly made a lasting and positive impression in the children's lives," she said. "We appreciate Fuller's commitment to honoring and serving children with disabilities. "