Athletic Opportunities for Wheelchair Athletes

For those that sustain a spinal cord injury (“SCI”), readjusting to life in a wheelchair can seem daunting, especially for those who previously had athletic lifestyles. However, being in a wheelchair does not translate into life without physical activity. In fact, the benefits of physical activity to those with an SCI can be tremendous and there is no shortage of athletic opportunities available.

The popularity of sports involving physically disabled athletes has exploded in recent years, with the Paralympics becoming the second largest sporting event in the world. Wheelchair athletes participate in a wide variety of sports including basketball, rugby, tennis, track and field, curling, football, and hockey. These sports are adapted with some minor modifications but remain just as physically demanding and exciting to watch! 

There are numerous associations in Canada that offer wheelchair sporting opportunities. These include the Ontario Wheelchair Sports Association, Athletics Canada, Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association, and the Canadian Paralympic Committee.  

By Liane Shepley