As newly minted sponsors of Parafed Manawatū, Enable New Zealand got the chance to check out National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament. And it was one for the books.
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With nine teams competing, including people from Manawatū, it marked the largest turnout in the competition’s history.
“Whether they’d been playing for years or had never touched a basketball, everyone was welcome,” says Wheelchair Basketball NZ (WBNZ) Tournament Director Pauline Cant.
The Kotahitanga Collective Tournament, organised in conjunction with WBNZ, focuses on fun, competition and inclusivity.
“Newbies, seasoned players, and everyone in between were encouraged to sign up.
“It’s all about giving everyone a chance to play. Instead of signing up with a team, players registered individually. Then we go ahead and pop them in different teams based on skill and experience. “
The idea behind the Collective is simple but brilliant: make wheelchair basketball welcoming for all. The name “Kotahitanga” meaning “unity” in Māori.
It was a tournament for our non-disabled and disabled community. Allowing siblings the chance to play with one another, parents or grandparents to join to in. Something that most whānau don’t get the chance to enjoy.
“The goal of this tournament is to grow the sport at a community level and introduce It to people.
“Then if a disabled player is keen to take their skills further, they can explore potential pathways.”
Interestingly, some players might not use wheelchairs in their everyday lives. And In New Zealand there are great opportunities to progress to the international stage.
Take it from Luke McDowall. The 26 years old Manawatū native, was first introduced to Wheelchair Basketball at 19. Early this year McDowall became the first ever Kiwi to secure a roster position at University of Alabama.
“I love the culture of college and collegiate sports. Everyone is either an athlete themselves or fully supportive of the school, with the rivalries also adding to the fun,” Luke says.
Wheelchair basketball is quite like the 5-on-5 game you’re used to, played on a standard court with the same height goals.
Most of the rules are the same as non-disabled basketball, though there are a few specific tweaks to accommodate the chairs and player abilities.
You can find the official wheelchair Basketball Rules on NZ Basketball
The weekend was more than just a competition; it was a celebration. It showed what can happen when sport is made inclusive and fun.
The Kotahitanga Collective proved that everyone could play and have a great time doing it. The Tournament was a reminder that sport brings people together, no matter their background or experience level.
For those who participated, the competition was an unforgettable experience. They got to play hard, make new friends, and be part of something special. As the initiative continues to grow, more and more people will get to experience the joy of wheelchair basketball.
“With more tournaments and opportunities on the horizon, the Kotahitanga Collective is sure to keep the momentum going.”
“The competition was a blast, and you know the best part? It’s just the beginning.”
Read more about our sponsorship of the Parafed Manawatū team at Enable X Parafed Manawatū go wheels up this August | Enable New Zealand