Pioneering the Legacy of Blind Cricket in the USA : Abigail Finklea (Abey) and Andrew Finklea (Drew), a passionate sibling duo from the United States, were first introduced to blind cricket when Team CABI visited the USA. Deeply inspired by the sport and its impact, they embarked on a journey to India in October 2024 to immerse themselves in intensive training at Samarthanam.
During their visit, they were given an extensive tour of Samarthanam’s facilities and attended specialized training camps designed to refine their skills and deepen their understanding of the game. Abey, who is visually impaired, displayed remarkable determination, while her brother Drew stood by her as her strongest pillar of support. Together, they are committed to carrying forward the legacy of blind cricket in the US.
With their dedication and training, Abey and Drew are now leading efforts to establish a strong blind cricket team in the United States. Their goal is not just to build a team but also to compete on the global stage, including the upcoming Paralympics. Their journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the unifying power of sports, proving that blind cricket has no boundaries — it is a game of determination, skill, and unwavering spirit.
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SAAKSHARTHA
HIGHER EDUCATION INITIATIVE SINCE 1997 FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES
SAAKSHARTHA
HIGHER EDUCATION INITIATIVE SINCE 1997 FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES
SAAKSHARTHA
HIGHER EDUCATION INITIATIVE SINCE 1997 FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES
SAMARTHANAM, USA
Samarthanam USA, established in 2011, serves as the international extension of the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, India. Guided by the vision to empower persons with disabilities (PwDs) and underprivileged individuals, Samarthanam USA supports initiatives in education, sports, and arts and culture. Together with Samarthanam Trust in India, we are dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities and transforming lives within marginalized communities.
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Our Initiatives
Diverse initiatives transforming the lives of people with disabilities and the underprivileged
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Education
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Arts & Culture
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Cricket for the Blind
Blind Cricket USA
Building Blind Cricket Teams in the USA
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At Samarthanam USA, in collaboration with the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, we are committed to introducing blind cricket to the United States. Our mission is to create pathways for visually impaired individuals to experience the transformative power of sports. This initiative includes structured training camps, competitive tournaments, and extensive outreach programs designed to build strong and sustainable blind cricket teams for both men and women in the USA.
Our vision extends beyond establishing teams. By nurturing talent, promoting inclusivity, and amplifying the sport’s visibility, we aim to integrate blind cricket into the sporting culture of the USA. This effort not only celebrates the abilities of visually impaired athletes but also advocates for their rightful place in mainstream sports.
Together, with the support of communities and stakeholders, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future—one where blind cricket thrives as a celebrated platform for empowerment and equality, both in the USA and globally.
To know more about Cricket:
Support Cricket for the Blind in the USA
FUTURE ROADMAP : EXPANDING THE REACH OF BLIND CRICKET IN THE USA
Upcoming Demonstrations:
January 23rd -
Louisiana Center for the Blind 101 S Trenton St, Ruston, LA 71270
February 7th -
New York Institute for Special Education 999 Pelham Pkwy N, Bronx, NY 10469
February 15th -
Carroll Center for the Blind 770 Centre St, Newton, MA 02458
February 19th -
Saavi Services for the Blind, Tucson 3350 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85716
February 20th -
Saavi Services for the Blind, Phoenix 2920 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85014
February 23th -
Crissy Park
February 27th -
Washington State School for the Blind
February 28th -
Tabling Event: 7801 Northeast Greenwood Drive
March 7th -
Tabling Event: 5615 N Cumberland Ave
May 7th -
The Maryland School for the Blind
July 27th -
The Maryland School for the Blind
More Locations Coming Soon!
OUR PLEDGE AND VISION
At the heart of our initiative to form a Women’s Blind Cricket Team in the USA is a deep commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and excellence. We are dedicated to creating a supportive platform where women with visual impairments can demonstrate their talents, grow their confidence, and become part of a dynamic national team.
We expect every player to bring dedication, passion, and teamwork to the field. Together, we share a vision of fostering a culture of respect, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Our mission is not just to play the game; it’s to break barriers, inspire others, and proudly represent the USA on the global stage, proving that determination and resilience know no limits.
Donate to Promote Cricket for the Blind in the USA
Blind cricket is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful platform for inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity for the visually impaired. This unique adaptation of cricket brings hope and confidence to individuals who overcome challenges every day, fostering teamwork, resilience, and community connection.
We believe in the transformative power of sports. Our mission is to introduce blind cricket to the United States and provide visually impaired individuals the chance to experience the joy and empowerment it brings. Through training camps, tournaments, and outreach programs, we aim to build strong blind cricket teams in the USA for both men and women, paving the way for this incredible sport to grow and thrive.
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Boston
July 25th - July 30th
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New York
July 31st - Aug 4th
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New Jersey
August 5th - August 11th
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Washington D.C.
August 12th - August 15th
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Los Angeles
August 30th - September 4th
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Seattle
September 5th - September 9th
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Bay Area
September 10th - September 17th
Your donation can help us in:
How you can Help
How to Contribute
Building Excellence
By organizing training camps with professional coaches to develop blind cricket teams.
Spreading Awareness
By hosting awareness programs to promote the sport across schools, universities, and communities.
Transforming Lives
Every contribution has the power to transform lives. Whether by covering travel expenses for a young athlete, providing essential equipment, or supporting a training session, your generosity helps create meaningful opportunities for individuals with visual impairments to thrive.
Equipping for Success
By providing specialized gear for blind cricket, including sound-emitting balls, adapted kits, and safe playing conditions.
Championing Recognition
By advocating for global recognition and working toward making blind cricket part of the Paralympics.
Join the Movement
Donate to support blind cricket in the USA and be part of this game-changing journey. Donate now and make a difference!
For other sponsorship opportunities send your note below
Our Impact
Leading a lasting change across multiple avenues
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34000
Students
received education
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1600
Disabled Artistes
Artistes supported in Music and Dance
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30000
Visually Impaired
cricketers touched
What We Do
In India, Samarthanam runs various projects in these arenas offering services to people with disabilities and the underserved, paving way to establishing an independent livelihood.
Education
The Education program run by Samarthanam was initiated in 2004 to provide equal education opportunities to children with disabilities.
Blind Cricket USA
Arts & Culture
Samarthanam Sunadha is a troupe of artists with disabilities who excel in Indian classical, folk dance and music presenting exceptional performances on various State, National and International platforms.
For all questions contact
Abigail Finklea
Phone: +1 (608) 404-0420
Email: abey@samarthanamusa.org
Andrew Finklea
Phone: +1 (608) 408-8938
Email: drew@samarthanamusa.org
Nidhi Shajan Paul
Phone: (+91) (962) 030-0705 (WhatsApp only)
Email: overseas@samarthanam.org
Shruti Shree Tyagi
Phone: +91 (819) 746-9833 (WhatsApp only)
Email: shrutishree@samarthanam.org