A Game for Elle — and for Everyone

USA Lacrosse has developed a new educational resource that explains the fundamentals of Adaptive Lacrosse — the modified version of the game that is designed specifically for the inclusion, safety, and enjoyment of players with disabilities.

This article about USA Lacrosse award-winning brothers and Able Athletics co-founders Rowan and Christian Dias appeared in the May 2026 edition of USA Lacrosse Magazine.

Six years ago, Able Lacrosse launched with a simple goal. Brothers Rowan and Christian Dias wanted to share their passion for lacrosse with their younger sister, Elle, and with other children like her who had developmental differences.

“Honestly, we were just hopeful that we would be able to have a once per week opportunity for Elle and her friends to get together and play lacrosse,” said Vanessa Dias, mother to the three siblings.

What quickly became apparent, however, was that their local community of Westchester County, N.Y., had a strong need for inclusive sports opportunities. Able Lacrosse soon became Able Athletics, adding field hockey, flag football, volleyball and wheelchair sports.

Today, the non-profit organization serves hundreds of children with learning differences, intellectual disabilities and other needs that require accommodations, across multiple communities, supported by a network of coaches, therapists, special education teachers and dedicated volunteers of all ages.

While Vanessa Dias now heads the Able Athletics leadership team, both of her sons remain key contributors, serving alongside many others who have provided valuable support since Able’s humble beginning.

In recognition of the group’s success in empowering children with disabilities through inclusive programming, USA Lacrosse recently recognized four of its leaders with special awards.

Rowan and Christian, now 17 and 15 years old, respectively, received USA Lacrosse’s Emerging Leader Award, while longtime volunteers James Synowiez and Jeremy Guski received the Outstanding Contributor to the Game Award.

“Over the past five years, James and Jeremy have gone far beyond the traditional definition of leadership. They have helped build a new model of lacrosse — one rooted in compassion, accessibility and community,” Dias said. “Together, they’ve transformed sidelines into classrooms, where varsity athletes learn that lacrosse isn’t just a game; it’s a vehicle for connection, dignity and joy for every child.”

As the varsity boys’ lacrosse coach at Scarsdale High School, Synowiez often brings his players to help with clinics and events.

“James has been a driving force behind the growth of inclusive lacrosse,” Dias said. “He stepped in right away and brought along the players he trusted most. But more than bringing players and experience, from the moment James joined our efforts, he also brought along his heart.”

Guski, the varsity boys’ lacrosse coach at Rye High School, has been equally instrumental in Able Athletics’ growth.

“Jeremy helps create an environment where every athlete, regardless of ability, feels respected, challenged and part of something bigger than themselves,” Dias said. “His ability to pivot seamlessly between athletes with intellectual disabilities and those with physical disabilities is remarkable. He brings the same energy, focus and expectation to every athlete he works with, ensuring they are not only included, but truly coached.”

As for the Dias boys, their vision made Able Athletics possible.

“Christian and Rowan are two of the most compassionate young leaders I have ever met and embody everything this award stands for — dedication, service and a commitment to growing the sport of lacrosse in a way that is inclusive, meaningful and accessible to all,” said Melissa Ponzio, chief program officer for Able Athletics.

She notes that the brothers display a genuine kindness to all the participants.

“What makes Christian and Rowan truly extraordinary is their authenticity. They don’t just show up. They truly care,” Ponzio said. “They strive to create a world that is more inclusive and accepting. As the mother of a son with special needs, I am forever grateful for the space they have created for my child and the community they’ve built for my family. Christian and Rowan are not just the leaders of today. They are the changemakers of tomorrow.”