Adaptive sports create opportunities for physically challenged and disabled people of all ages to be able to participate in recreational and team-based activities, including wheelchair basketball, sled hockey, martial arts and more. We have witnessed first-hand how lives can be positively impacted by getting to take part in adaptive sports like this, whether after a spinal cord injury or a lifetime with a medical condition that limits mobility.
This is a reason why we always jump at the chance to be a part of the OU Medicine Wheelchair Basketball Tournament., which benefits a local adaptive sports organization, Oklahoma Adaptive Sports Association (OKASA). The tournament is one of our favorite events to attend and sponsor, and 2018 marked the 10th anniversary of this awesome event.
Find out more about the tournament this year as well as the importance of OKASA’s role in the local community, and how you can find an adaptive sports organization near you!
OU Medicine Wheelchair Basketball Tournament
Each year, OU Medicine teams up to take on Oklahoma Adaptive Sports Association’s (OKASA) wheelchair basketball team, the Wheels of Thunder (formerly known as the Blaze).
These hardworking, compassionate people play an integral role in setting up this tournament to support OKASA, and we are always honored to help sponsor this event each year.
180 Medical employees are always excited to be able to bring their families and friends to watch the games at Oklahoma City University’s (OCU) Freede Wellness Center after work. In addition to making fun signs and collecting gift cards for a donation basket for the event’s silent auction, we were glad to volunteer time at the popcorn booth to help raise even more funds for OKASA and cheer all of the teams on as the Oklahoma City Thunder drummers played.
Of course, this awesome team always manages to beat our team of 180 Medical employees, along with just about everyone else that plays against them.
In fact, their team members are all so skilled that they recently competed in the National Wheelchair Basketball Association’s (NWBA) national junior varsity championship. With their immense talent on the court and a passion for the sport, we suspect they’ll move forward to qualify again next year as well.
Oklahoma City Thunder Drummers with the team (Wheels of Thunder)
All About OKASA
OKASA is a fantastic organization in Oklahoma that works to support both kids and adults who live with physical disabilities such as spina bifida, spinal cord injuries, and more.
Many of their activities offered include:
- Racing
- Competitive weight-lifting
- Water sports (swimming, kayaking, etc.)
- Track & Field
- and more!
Physical activity through organizations like OKASA promotes better health, confidence, and improved overall well-being of the disabled or physically challenged. Adaptive sports offer a way to enjoy many of the activities they loved before their injuries or have always wanted to try.
Adaptive sports is a great way to meet new people who understand their condition on a personal level. Many form lifelong friendships.
The annual Wheelchair Basketball Tournament is one of the most fun events of the year for us at 180 Medical. It’s also an important cause close to our hearts.
We truly feel blessed to be able to help contribute. Funding goes toward new equipment and opportunities for OKASA.
How to Find An Adaptive Sports Organization in Your Area
Are you seeking a way to get started with some adaptive sports and activities?
OKASA is a member of the following organizations, and these links may be a great place to start:
You can also go to this link to find local adaptive sports opportunities and clubs, thanks to U.S. Paralympics.
Find out more about OKASA’s mission and their programs or discover ways to help out at okasa.org.
