Wheelchair Rugby

What does this sport involve?

Intense  team contact sport, previously known as ‘Murderball.’ ‘Murderball’ a Hollywood film based around this sport was released in 2006. Wheelchairs used in this sport are modified to provide crash protection, with 2 types of wheelchairs, offensive and defensive. Matches are played indoors on a standard basketball court. The aim of each team is to score goals against their opponents by touching or crossing their goal line with the ball, which, unlike the standard rugby ball, is round not oval.

Each team fields 4 players, who can be mixed - male and female. Players are classified according to functional ability  using a points system and teams can’t field players totalling a combined total of more than 8 points at any one time. Classification points range from 0.5 – 3.5, so for example if you field 2 x 3.5 players then the other 2 players will have to be 0.5. Tactics play an important role as the type of game you play and the players you field on court requires careful planning in response to the opposing team’s tactics and players.

When a player has possession of the ball to avoid committing a foul they must dribble or pass the ball within 10 seconds.

Who can compete?

Open to:  Men and women. The points classification system for Wheelchair Rugby is similar to Wheelchair basketball with players awarded from 0.5 – 3.5 points according to functional ability (arm, hand, trunk and muscle function).

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

The national body responsible for organisation of this sport is:

Great Britain Rugby Association

Other contacts: Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby

www.gbwr.co.uk/ -  has a Find a Team section

Development Director: James Price

GBWR is a 20 year old not for profit organisation which states that it aims to develop a fully inclusive sport and enable players to use their full potential regardless of financial status or disability – and to provide support at grass roots level as well as to elite players

Did you know?

First appeared at the Paralympics in Sydney 2000. One of the fastest growing wheelchair sports

Would I like this sport and what are the benefits?

Good sport for those looking for a team contact sport. Requires skill, strength and the flexibility to respond to the tactics of your opponent

 

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