From the school gym to the world stage: Brockville and area students experience wheelchair basketball
Following interactive wheelchair basketball activities at their schools, students in the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) have had the chance to attend the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) 2026 World Championships in Ottawa.
The championships are taking place from Wednesday, Sept. 9 to Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 at Carleton University.
“Wheelchair basketball brings the goals of our All-In Sport Initiative to life… It shows students that sport can be inclusive, accessible, and meaningful for everyone,” stated UCDSB Health and Physical Education Learning Partner Lisa Winters in a Sept. 15 media release.
“Seeing elite athletes compete helps students understand that barriers can be removed, talents can be celebrated, and every individual deserves the opportunity to participate, belong and succeed through sport.”
Since 2024, representatives from IWBF have visited UCBSD schools as part of their schools program, according to the release. The program teaches students how to play wheelchair basketball and includes the opportunity to attend a world championship game.
“The game was great,” said Centennial ’67 Public School student Everett Lalonde.
“I liked watching Japan and the other team score. Some of my friends got to play wheelchair basketball during the break too which was really cool.”
The program is also designed to inspire inclusion and raise awareness of para sport.
“I thought it was pretty cool to see what they could do,” said Swift Waters Elementary School student Morgan Mitchell.
“The way they got back up after falling and kept playing was awesome. They made it look so easy, it was inspiring!”
The students come to learn that wheelchair basketball is a sport in which athletes with and without disabilities can compete.
“It was so fun to watch,” added Swift Waters student Lia Wilson.
“It was really cool how they could move their wheelchair at the same time they’re holding the ball. They have to be really strong to do all that stuff!”