Wheelchair Basketball

What does this sport involve?

Out of a squad of 12 players who form the team, 5 can be on court.  The court is the equivalent size of a standard basketball court, 28 metres x 15 metres and the baskets are the same height.

Each match lasts 40 minutes and consists of 4 periods of 10 minutes with a 15 minute break at half time and an interval of 1 minute after the 1st and 3rd periods. Players are not allowed to touch the court surface with their feet when in possession of the ball. The offence of ‘travelling’ in wheelchair basketball is committed when the player has possession of the ball for more than 2 pushes without dribbling. Otherwise rules are the same as for mainstream basketball.

 

Who can compete?

This sport is now open to all players who can not run, jump or pivot. Not all players who participate in the sport use a wheelchair in daily life. Team members are awarded points according to functional ability and teams can not field players with more than a total of 14 points at any one time.

If you think you would like to try this sport or would like to know more?

The body with responsibility for organisation of this sport is :

Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Association, Loughborough Park, Oakwood Drive, Loughborough LE11 3NG

www.gbwba.org.uk  the Junior Development Officer is Tina Gordon

Tel: 01509 279900  - for information on clubs, Junior Leagues and coaches

A new club called the Seasiders has just started in the Blackpool and is hoping to enter the Development Division in 2008 -2009

Contact: Hamish Hayes  Tel: 01253 298027 Email hamish.hayes@btinternet.com

Did you know?

Wheelchair basketball was first represented at the Paralympics in Rome1960.

It has been played as a sport in the USA since the 1940s

Would I like this sport and what are the benefits?

Fast moving and skilful. Great spectator sport too.

You need Flash 8 to view the clip. If you cannot see the video clip above, you may download the plug-in by clicking here.