Wheelchair Basketball Taster Session Coming To Freshwater Next Month

Islanders are being invited to try wheelchair basketball at a free taster session in Freshwater next month.

One of the South’s leading clubs, Southern Sharks Wheelchair Basketball Club, will visit the Island on Thursday, March 7, hosting an open session at West Wight Sports and Community Centre from 1pm to 3pm.

The visit has been made possible thanks to assisted travel support from Wightlink and aims to encourage more people — particularly wheelchair users — to give the fast-paced, inclusive sport a go.

Island resident Gary Butler, who competes in GB Masters 60+ and with Help for Heroes veterans, says wheelchair basketball is open to all ages and abilities — and you don’t need to be a wheelchair user to take part.

Sports wheelchairs will be provided, and organisers say everyone is welcome.

Centre manager Clare Griffin added that, if interest is strong, there are hopes to develop competitive wheelchair basketball on the Island in partnership with IW Basketball.

The session is free to attend. People can call 752168 to confirm attendance or simply turn up on the day.

Donations to support the centre are welcome, and families bringing children are asked to contact the venue in advance so suitable wheelchairs can be arranged.