Wheelchair basketball is one of the most popular sports in the disability community and has been around since World War II. The sport allows players with various degrees of paralysis to compete in sports with able-bodied athletes. In 2017, Indiana University created its first adaptive sports program: the Wheelchair Basketball team.
Creating the Program
IU’s Wheelchair Basketball program was created with the help of the School of Public Health. An individual passionate about the sport wrote about their passion, and the professor brought them in to help write a grant for the program. It was through this process that the individual learned about the need for increased accessibility, inclusion, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.
Wheelchair basketball is an international sport that provides ability for all ages to get access to sport, and it is seen as a human right. The program at IU allows the community at large to come together as the majority of the game and rules are the same. It brings people together from all walks of life to play a sport they love.
Bridging the Gap
The Wheelchair Basketball Team at IU bridges the gap between those with physical disabilities and those that don’t. When everyone is in their chairs, it’s difficult to tell who has a physical disability and who doesn’t. This allows students who have never had an experience with someone who has a physical disability to connect with them. It also breaks the stereotype that wheelchair basketball must be easier than able-bodied basketball, as only the rules are altered as much as needed to suit the population.
Competitive Nature
The game is actually more competitive than some may think. It is high intensity, high cardio, and full of competitiveness. This is what drove one individual to the program, as they were searching for some physical exertion and competition.
Accessibility Challenges
Though the Wheelchair Basketball program has been successful in building the community, there are still challenges with accessibility. It is important that buildings allow wheelchair community to access not just the practice space but campus in general.
Conclusion
Wheelchair basketball is an essential program to have at IU, as it is the face of accessibility at the school. It provides a lot of diversity to the school and creates the opportunity to play sports with friends. It is through programs like this that conversations start to happen around disability and ability, which is essential in creating an inclusive community.
