Wheelchair Rugby: A Guide to the Game and Its Rules
What is Wheelchair Rugby?
Wheelchair rugby is a fast-paced, physical team sport played on a regulation-sized basketball court by teams of four players using a white, inflatable ball.
Key Rules of Wheelchair Rugby
- Players must remain seated in their wheelchairs at all times.
- Players use their wheelchairs to maneuver around the court and propel the ball.
- The game is played in two halves, each lasting eight minutes.
- The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Origins and History of Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby was invented in Canada in the early 1970s as a way for people with disabilities to participate in a competitive sport.
The sport quickly gained popularity and spread to other countries around the world.
In 1996, wheelchair rugby became a Paralympic sport and has been featured in every Paralympic Games since then.
Teams and Competition
Wheelchair rugby is played by eight teams in the Paralympics: France, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Great Britain, Japan, and the USA.
The teams compete in a round-robin format, with the top four teams advancing to the semifinals.
The winners of the semifinals compete for the gold medal, while the losers compete for the bronze medal.
Popularity and Growth
Wheelchair rugby has become increasingly popular in recent years, due in part to its fast-paced, physical nature and its inclusion in the Paralympic Games.
The sport has also been featured in several documentaries and television shows, which has helped to raise its profile.
As a result of its growing popularity, wheelchair rugby is now played in over 30 countries around the world.
Comments