Wheelchair Basketball 2012

Being in the Wheelchair Basketball Association (WBA) task force has allowed me to experience a sport I had never known before, experience just how a sport can transform a person’s life. It was a very meaningful experience for me.

Through wheelchair basketball, I learnt that sports are not only an avenue to have fun, but also a way for people to connect with one another. Many physically disabled people are conservative as they are afraid to express themselves. They tend not to interact with the society due to the strong social stigma.  However through wheelchair basketball, they no longer see themselves as simply disabled persons, but as sportsmen, and this helps them to give them confidence and break away from their fear. When they see themselves differently, and open up to people such as our task force, we cannot see them as the same anymore either.

Training session at UWCSEA

This platform allows them to make new friends not only with other disabled, but also with the able-bodied people. The collaboration of the WBA with the Ngee Ann Wheelpower Club, and also with our school Saint Andrew’s Junior College (SAJC) is a very good example. We have both attended training sessions at the United World College with the WBA members, and spent time understanding the sport as well as the sportsmen. This interaction allows them to gradually come to terms with their disability and people’s initial awkwardness around them. Acceptance is forging a relationship, and a relationship is a two way connection. However, I have noticed that some disabled people are skeptical about the society’s acceptance of them. What we, as part of society, can do for them is to open our arms and accept them.

Saints facing the wheelchair giants

In our project, a lot of preparation and contacting was required. My group and I did much planning, and at times we were disappointed with the rejection of some of our ideas. We had to make many changes multiple times to suit the beneficiary. Also, it was rather difficult to contact the different stakeholders as they may take a long time to reply. However, all these challenges turned out to be beneficial as it helped to improve my communication and leadership skills. I can better understand what it means to be a leader and the responsibilities I have to take up.

On the competition day itself, many unforeseen problems also cropped up. Having to make swift decisions then, I learnt how to be flexible in my planning skills and not to rigidly follow schedule. I also learnt the value of never giving up. Although the stress was immense, I didn't give up and continued on, putting in my best effort.

Saints feeling the difficulty of the game, but enjoying themselves nonetheless

Moreover, I also learnt the importance of seeking opinions from other people such as teachers and group mates. My own way of handling things might not be the very best. Through help from others, I could have further improved the plan, thus enabling things to run smoother.

-Larry, 3rd Saints Advocate

The end of the event, but the wheels that have been set in motion will keep turning.