Shooting Stars Special Needs Group

Shooting Stars Special Needs Group offers Shooting Stars Basketball, an inclusive, non-competitive basketball program for children and adults with a variety of disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome, and other physical and mental disabilities. It also offers a monthly "Shooting Stars-Together in Motion" Family Group Walk and family social meetups every couple of months.

Programs

• Shooting Stars Basketball — Children ages 5-25; also described as children and adults ages 5 to 22 · Every Sunday · Inclusive, non-competitive basketball program for children and adults with a variety of disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome and other physical and mental disabilities.
• Monthly "Shooting Stars-Together in Motion" Family Group Walk — Monthly; Friday at 3:30 pm · Informal family event that promotes community, family and movement.
• Family Social Meetups / Family Social Activity — Every couple of months · Family meetups for participants and their parents at different venues.

At a glance

• Ages: 5–18 years old

About the provider

Shooting Stars Special Needs Group was established in 2025. The organization was created in San Marcos, California and its purpose is to serve persons with disabilities and the community at large by coordinating activities and providing resources to promote inclusion and create opportunities for special needs individuals and families. Its leadership team includes Rick Clark, Emmie Clark, Randall Kato, Andreina Leal-Carrillo, and Emmanuel Carrillo. Rick and Emmie Clark were recognized by the San Marcos Parks & Recreation Commission in 2024 with their Volunteer Recognition Award and by the North County Consortium for Special Education in 2009 with the Excellence in Special Education Community Award.

The basketball program is described as fun, non-competitive, encouraging, and inclusive. The league mission is to ensure that all players feel a sense of belonging. The family events are open to all Shooting Stars player and volunteer families. One event notes there is no cost.

What families say

“It was a good way of being connected to the community and have an understanding of other resources available for our kiddos.” — Jennifer S.

“This was our son’s first time attending a Shooting Stars clinic/activity and he had a great time. Everyone was so welcoming and incredibly patient. Overall amazing experience.” — Maria M.

“My son having his own sport/activity to do and the ability for him to feel more like his typical siblings. Him having the value of social connections and the pride of pushing himself farther and farther each week.” — Kara R.

Last updated October 29, 2026.