The Dwarf Athletic Association of America (DAAA) is an American athletic organization that sponsors and organizes athletic events for people with dwarfism. History Founded in 1985, the DAAA's purpose is to develop, promote, and provide little people athletes with organized and quality amateur athletics in a supportive environment. DAAA holds the idea that there is a lack of sports opportunity for little people in America and they look to fill the void and provide an environment that rewards dwarf athletes by taking their potential seriously and giving them a realistic opportunity to succeed through hard work and dedication. The DAAA also believes that "the dream of honoring America in international competition should be as real for a dwarf athlete as it is for any other in the country." Mission According to its website, the DAAA's mission is: "To encourage people with dwarfism to participate in sports regardless of their level of skills." It is also to help dwarfs realize their true potential in life. Sports and eligibility The DAAA organizes and promotes dwarf athletics in a variety of sports for a variety of ages. They also sponsor clinics and development events around the United States. List of amateur sports The DAAA has athletes that compete in the following sports: Track and field Badminton Basketball Boccia Football Soccer Swimming Table tennis Weightlifting Volleyball Shooting Archery Eligibility Due to the medical nature of dwarfism, the DAAA has certain requirements that must be met for eligibility. These requirements include (but are not limited to): Disproportionate dwarves (usually with achondrodysplasia who are less than (or equal to) five feet tall) and proportionate dwarves with a height that is less than or equal to four feet ten inches are usually eligible to compete All participants must meet a special medical clearance and file a current medical release form (except those participating in Boccia) All athletes must also sign a "Waiver and Release of Liability and Publicity Release" in order to participate Events In addition to the development of youth and adult dwarf athletes, the DAAA also organizes a number of local, regional, and national events to promote healthy competition among other little people. National Dwarf Games The National Dwarf Games is a yearly amateur competition organized by the DAAA (and local organizations) and only open to little people. Athletes are divided on the basis of age, gender, and functional ability classifications. There are also events