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.
We always jump at the chance to be a part of the OU Medicine Wheelchair Basketball Tournament. This fun event benefits a local adaptive sports organization, Oklahoma Adaptive Sports Association (OKASA). 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. We also provide resources to 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. We’re always honored to help sponsor this event.
180 Medical employees bring family and friends to watch the games at Oklahoma City University’s (OCU) Freede Wellness Center after work. Our company had fun making supportive signs and collecting gift cards for the event’s silent auction. Some 180 team members also volunteered time at the popcorn booth to help raise funds for OKASA.
The Wheels of Thunder always manages to beat our 180 Medical team. In fact, this amazing team tends to win against almost everyone they play.
The Wheels of Thunder recently competed in the National Wheelchair Basketball Association’s (NWBA) National Junior Varsity Championship.
With their immense talent and passion for the sport, we bet they’ll qualify again next year too.
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. Through adaptive sports, the disabled can once again enjoy activities they loved before their injuries.
Participating in 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.
