WASHINGTON – Recently-injured veterans will learn how to surf, kayak, sail and enjoy other summer sports at a rehabilitative clinic sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

"As Americans, we have a covenant to care for those who have served our nation with honor," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "VA is proud to fulfill this covenant through events such as the Summer Sports Clinic, which gives injured veterans an opportunity to rediscover their potential and redefine their capabilities."

The second annual National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic will be held Sept. 20 through 25 in San Diego.

The clinic is aimed at introducing recently-injured veterans to adaptive sports and renewing their self

confidence through sporting activities.

Events at this rehabilitation clinic include adaptive kayaking, sailing, track and field, cycling and surfing, using venues throughout San Diego, including the U.S. Olympic Training Center. At the week-long event, they also build life-long relationships with fellow veterans.

Participation is open to military veterans who are eligible for VA medical care and who have orthopedic amputations, traumatic brain injuries, burn injuries, psychological trauma, certain neurological conditions, visual impairment, spinal cord injuries and other injuries incurred in the last six years.

VA is a health care leader in rehabilitation. The clinic is one of VA's six rehabilitation events held each year, with sponsorship support for the summer clinic provided by original founding sponsors Help

Hospitalized Veterans and the Veterans Canteen Service and national sponsor Health Net. The VA San Diego Healthcare System hosts the Summer Sports Clinic.

For more information, visit www.summersportsclinic.va.gov .