Wheelchair Basketball - A Physical Game

For many sports enthusiasts, participation is sports activities help define who they are as a person. Athletics are an integral part of the family history. Cheering on the sidelines can be fun, but the actual competition is enticing, and being a bystander is definitely not where many individuals want to be. Handicapped people are no different than the general population. Therefore, sports, like wheelchair basketball can make all the difference in the self-esteem and quality of life for the disabled.

Wheelchair basketball began after World War II, when many men came home in wheelchairs. Once active and able-bodied, the veterans needed a familiar pastime, a diversion, and some competition. Enter, wheelchair basketball. The rules are basically the same. For example, despite playing from a seated position, the net is not lowered to accommodate the handicapped. However, because of the wheelchairs, “traveling” had to be redefined. In wheelchair basketball, the wheels must not be touched more than twice before dribbling or passing the ball. If so, traveling is called, and the same rules apply.

The only other noticeable differences are the sports wheelchairs used. With extremely low backs, minimal sides, a trimmer frame, and inward tilting wheels, the athlete is faster and able to lean into turns, for optimal control of the ball. Once people figured out wheelchair basketball is a truly competitive sport, and not some show of mercy, wheelchair basketball teams continued to be formed and grow. Today, women have their own wheelchair basketball teams.

As popularity grew, normal, healthy athletes chose to compete against wheelchair athletes. The only concession, sit down and be prepared for a close, competitive game. On the court, all bets are off. People have learned not to underestimate the abilities of wheelchair athletes. Do wheelchairs fly? One begins to wonder, after watching a close game of wheelchair basketball.

In conclusion, sports are not limited by physical ability; athleticism is determined by sheer willpower, and the desire to work real hard and make dreams become a reality. A person’s value and spirit should not be judged by a physical handicap. Today, thousands of athletes all over the world witness to others regarding the power of desire and determination. Conversely, many want to-be players cheer on the sidelines and never get past the dreaming stage. Why? Fear? Self doubt? No more! Instead, step up to the line, and get into the game. Maybe not all games will be won, at first. Maybe an opponent is a truly gifted athlete. Who cares?! The point is, wheelchair-bound athletes can play the game, and win a zest for life.

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