Our guest writer, Stuart Wheeler of Freedom Wheelchair Skills shares his own experiences of sport in a wheelchair:
The Paralympics have started. They are a series of international multi-sport events involving athletes with various disabilities. Similar to the Olympic Games, they showcase the athletic abilities of individuals with physical, sensory, or intellectual impairments.
The Paralympics have gained significant recognition and popularity over the years, promoting inclusivity, equality, and the inspiring achievements of athletes with disabilities worldwide.
At the beginning or during most paralympic games, someone approaches me and asks if I’ve watched any of them or if I know anyone taking part. Wheelchair Rugby is a particular sport they ask about.
Now, I feel I need to set the record straight: not all Wheelchair users are Paralympians, and not all wheelchair users know or have any interest in playing or being involved with a sport. It seems to be a misconception that, just because I use a wheelchair, I automatically will enter a paralympic sport or know someone who is playing.
Okay, I know some players in the GB Wheelchair Rugby Team. I feel particularly proud to say I taught wheelchair skills to Gavin Walker and Daniel Kellett when they were both in rehabilitation following a spinal cord injury. Can I put my hand up to say I influenced their positive progression living with spinal injury and developed their confidence? I like to think so!
Maybe I should have played sports earlier and tried to join Team GB. For 12 years, I played wheelchair basketball for Aces. My local team based in Aylesbury. Starting the game about nine years after discharge from rehab, Aces seemed like the correct team to play for.
I am familiar with Aylesbury due to working there, having a lifetime membership of the NSIC, and my best mate living there. Playing for Aces built my confidence and allowed me to meet peers and see some of the country. I enjoyed my time with the club, the banter, the successes, and the adrenalizing blood rushing around my body during a time-out.
Deciding to leave the club was a hard decision. My son was born in January, and the overwhelming joy I had from becoming a father is immeasurable. After some thought, I decided I didn’t want to be driving around the country at the weekend to play ‘the game’ and miss him growing up and developing. So, when the 2012/2013 season ended, I decided to hand my wheels up and retire.
