This blog post is based on an interview with Sunil "Sunny" Patel, conducted by Ariyanna Ellison, SportsAbility Alliance Sport Management Intern. 

Sunny Patel’s story is a powerful example of how sports can foster inclusion, connection, and personal growth. Based in Tallahassee since graduating from Florida State University in 1990, Sunny has built a career working in computer systems for the state. Outside of work, however, much of his life revolves around sports. “There’s not many activities I do that aren’t sports related,” Sunny shared. “I travel, I like movies and music… but mostly, it’s sports.” 

Sunny’s passion led him to find SportsAbility Alliance where his involvement began simply by attending an event, but it quickly became a long-term commitment. “I just heard about it and attended an event. And then I just got into it and tried different sports,” he said. Over the years, he has participated in and supported programs like tennis and basketball, helping others feel welcomed and included.

“It means a lot to me,” Sunny explained. “We’re helping people learn about sports and play sports… so that they know they’re included. And I like to include people and know that we can do things like everyone else.” For Sunny, sports go beyond competition—they create opportunities to meet people, try new things, and stay engaged. “It keeps me open minded… you get to meet people and do things that you don’t usually do,” he said.

While he once played tennis and basketball, Sunny now focuses on pool—and it’s opening new doors. He recently qualified for a national wheelchair pool tournament in Las Vegas on April 27 through his participation in APA league play. The tournament will bring together competitors from across the country, marking Sunny’s first experience competing at this level. "I’m just looking forward to playing with other wheelchair opponents, meeting them, and learning from them,” he shared. “I’ve never done this before.” 

This milestone is especially meaningful, as Sunny will be the first wheelchair player from his community to compete in this event. “I’m hoping I get the support from Tallahassee… and to put Tallahassee on the map,” he said. 

To help make the trip possible, Sunny hosted a fundraising event at Zingales which featured a wheelchair pool exhibition and other fundraising activities. Supporters can also contribute through a GoFundMe campaign: Fundraiser for Sunil Patel by Justin Radigan: Help Sunil Compete at APA Wheelchair Championship

Through his journey, Sunny continues to show that sports can break barriers and bring people together. As he prepares for Las Vegas, he isn’t just competing - he’s representing his community and inspiring others to get involved. Read the interview he recently did with WCTV as well: Tallahassee pool player set to take on world’s best at wheelchair championships