THE THRILLS and skills of wheelchair basketball were on show at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday where the Warwickshire Bears played ahead of Wasps’ Aviva Premiership clash with Newcastle Falcons.
The Bears were out in the community inside the Jaguar Exhibition Hall showcasing the sport and improving links with local clubs.
A mini basketball court was set up with spare wheelchairs provided by the British Wheelchair Basketball Association for people to have a go and the Bears provided coaching and encouragement.
A large number of people joined in including Wasps’ Italian hooker Carlo Fustuccia.
“It was a great event and opportunity for the Bears to appear before a bigger audience and to showcase wheelchair basketball to a wider audience,” said Bears coach Tom Masterson.
“It gave us the chance to try get the message out that you don’t need to be a wheelchair user to play.
“Having an injury that prevents you playing able-bodied team sports such as rugby, may make you eligible to be classified to play wheelchair basketball, even anyone who is able bodied can play.”
The Bears are back in league action this Sunday when they host Maidstone Warriors and the second team face Cardiff Celts at Warwick College in Henley-in-Arden from 11am.
The Bears are still looking for a sponsor for the team and remain on the lookout for new players. If anyone is interested they should email [email protected] or call 07946518354.
