Colorado is home to a thriving community of physically challenged athletes who excel in individual sports including swimming, snow skiing and cycling.

7Everyday heroes Stuart Klugler and Larry Sidebottom make it possible for anyone who is interested in team sports to be able to participate, even those who use wheelchairs.

Stuart and Larry are co-founders of Colorado Wheelchair Sports. It's a program that got started in 2000.

It includes some 100 adult participants and 150 child participants.

Without the program, many who use wheelchairs would not be able to participate in team sports.

The participants may have lost their ability to walk, but not their competitive spirit.

"Last year we went to the junior varsity national championships and we were tenth in the nation," said 12-year-old Ryan.

Their team is one of many made possible by Colorado Wheelchair Sports. The program includes wheelchair rugby, hockey, tennis and softball.

"These guys are true athletes. It's not a feel-good thing," said Stuart. "These guys are out there to compete at the highest level."

"There are a lot of individual sports like skiing," said Larry. "You can play tennis as an individual, but team sports -- if it weren't for us providing those programs, it wouldn't exist."

"I couldn't do anything when I was little because I was disabled, so this has given me the opportunity to do something," said 14-year-old Brenny.

"They see from Larry that there's nothing wrong with them. They are normal kids and they can do anything they want to do," said Matt, who is a parent to one of the participants.

For Larry and Stuart, watching each athlete grow is well worth the countless hours they volunteer.

"Just seeing the great accomplishments and being part of it," said Stuart.

"These athletes are just tremendous," said Larry. "Their skill development is just amazing."

"What Larry and Stu do for these kids week in and week out, making time available, giving them some exercise, and teaching them skills -- those guys are the best," said Matt. "They really are."

For more information about Colorado Wheelchair Sports, visit www.coloradowheelchairsports.org.