Since the British Wheelchair Basketball League was formed in 1974, the sport has grown dramatically and now UWE is getting in on the game.

Last week saw the Centre for Sport, in partnership with Project Ability, launch their brand new wheelchair basketball (WCBB) chairs with an exciting taster session and shootout competition. The launch was part of UWE’s Disability Awareness Month and saw participation from staff and students from different backgrounds with various experience and abilities.

The new Centre for Sport sport’s strategy hopes to increase involvement of WCBB within the university and increase inclusion as a new sport rather than a ‘disability’ sport.  Links with organisations such as Bristol Bisons Wheelchair Basketball Club and Project Ability are allowing this to happen by raising awareness and offering support. UWE Sport’s EDGE volunteering programme also offers funding for students and staff to complete coaching qualifications.

Hugh and Chrissy from Bristol Bisons, who helped to organise and run the session, find this fast and furious sport a great way of meeting new people. Since recovering from vascular surgery in 2012, Hugh said, ‘It’s allowed me to get out the house and make friends from all over the country; it’s such a fun sport and always has a great atmosphere regardless of where we play’.

Vice Chancellor, Steve West, who also attended the launch, believes that all talent should have the opportunity to come here (CFS).

“UWE’s making great progress to be as inclusive as possible”

Steve West, Vice Chancellor

The winner of the shootout was Ahmd Emara who won tickets to the British Basketball League Play-Off Finals at the O2. He kindly gave these to our youngest competitor of the day who was so close in scoring a basket!

For more information or joining enquiries, head to the Bristol Bisons Wheelchair Basketball Club page on Facebook or email Tamara Getter at tamara2.getter@uwe.ac.uk.