Wheelchair basketball is one of the most popular disabled sports. In recent years, the number of people participating and competing in the sport has increased significantly and there are now 65 teams competing in the National Wheelchair Basketball League, as well as a huge number of local amateur clubs and teams.
Wheelchair basketball is one of the blue ribbon Paralympic sports and elite athletes can compete in both the Paralympic Games and the Paralympic World Cup.
Who can play wheelchair basketball?
Wheelchair basketball is suitable for people with a range of disabilities, including:
- Spina bifida
- Paraplegics
- Amputees
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cerebral palsy
- Brittle bones
Wheelchair basketball is an accessible sport and the Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Association is keen to promote the sport and encourage everyone who can play the sport to get involved. Wheelchair is accessible to people of all ages and there are leagues for men, women and juniors. Many leisure centres offer sessions for people of all ages and abilities and competitions take place up and down the country.
History of wheelchair basketball
Wheelchair basketball has been around for many years. Initially, it was introduced as a rehabilitation and therapeutic activity for people with spinal problems and injuries, but it quickly became a popular recreational activity and has progressed into a competitive sport. Wheelchair basketball was first played in the USA by basketball players who were injured during the 2nd World War and could no longer play the traditional form of the sport. In 1955, wheelchair basketball came to England and it has since become popular in many countries across the world.
Recently, wheelchair basketball has been included in the government’s Change 4 Life programme, which is designed to promote healthy living. The programme is targeting both children and adults and encouraging people to eat a healthy and balanced diet and participate in regular exercise.
