Bears wheelchair basketball club looking to grow family - The Stratford Observer

Bears wheelchair basketball club looking to grow family

Stratford Editorial 27th Jan, 2019   0

WHEELCHAIR basketball club Warwickshire Bears is looking to expand its family.

The team, based in Henley, is seeking younger and female players to join the successful club.

Players vary in their level of disability, from those with heart conditions or trauma disabilities, to those with temporary injuries, and even fully able-bodied can take part. The team trains twice a week.

Head coach Tom Masters said: “Team members build strong communication and support networks as well as lifelong bonds of friendship and support one another in overcoming challenges, as well as helping each other to achieve phenomenal things both on and off the court.”




Mr Masters founded the team in 2002, along with Mark Butler, after both playing the sport together in their youth.

The club has risen through the ranks to earn a place in the premier division of the British Wheelchair Basketball.


The Bears now support four teams in the league, as well as junior and women’s league teams.

National and women’s league player Aimee Lane – who began playing wheelchair basketball four years ago – said the sport had grown in popularity since the London 2012 Paralympics.

She said: “There wasn’t much in the way of disability sport where I lived before I joined the Bears, but I know this is now changing.

“Fitness and wellbeing was a hugely important element in my motivation to start playing wheelchair basketball, and a big reason for why I still do.

“There are plenty of clubs out there for anyone who wants to keep fit and stay healthy through wheelchair basketball, but the Bears will always be my home.

“I love playing for the Bears, it’s an encouraging environment and there’s no differentiation between athletes in different teams, at different levels.

“One of my favourite things is the fantastic social scene. You build deep and long lasting friendships here and we have the best time.

“It’s a fantastic, supportive, family environment. It’s like having a big family of brothers and sisters.”

Visit bearswbc.co.uk to find out more information.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Stratford Observer newspaper.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.

Advertising

Advertise with the Stratford Observer to reach your audience