India secure two bronze in Bali

Indian men’s and women’s teams won bronze at the 4th Bali Cup international tournament for wheelchair basketball, in Indonesia.

It was the women’s team maiden participation in an international event in Paralympic sports. The Wheelchair Basketball Federation of India organised a selection camp in June with Australian coach Bradley Ness to train and select players.

Based on the players’ performance at the camp and classification categories, the men and women teams were formed.

Training camps for men were conducted in July in association with the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre, Pune and at the Sathyabhama University for women.

WBFI president P. Madhavi Latha said, “Participation in the Bali Cup was good exposure for our players. Their performance improved as matches progressed. Our players observed and learnt good techniques from other teams, which they were even able to adopt and apply quickly.

“They have immense potential but not all of them can afford the right training and equipment. Continuous practice with high performance customised sports wheelchairs will definitely improve their skill level and team spirit.”