ParaSports Wheelchair Sports Organization Inc. is sending its ParaSport Spurs basketball team to nationals later this month.
SAN ANTONIO — A San Antonio nonprofit supporting athletes with physical disabilities is heading to a national competition. ParaSports Wheelchair Sports Organization Inc. is sending its ParaSport Spurs basketball team to nationals later this month.
As they prepare, the group is raising funds to help cover travel costs.
The squeak of tires on hardwood floors echoes through the gym at Morgan’s Sports Complex – the sound of some of San Antonio’s toughest athletes getting ready to fly.
“It takes dedication, consistency and determination,” said Willie Jackson, head coach of the ParaSport Spurs.
Basketball has always been a game of skill – but on wheels, it demands even more.
“Adaptive sports is not meant to be easy,” said Nakia Merritte, assistant coach for the team. “We have some guys who were born like this. Most of the team is military. In the wars, some of them lost their leg.”
Nothing is slowing the team down.
The ParaSport Spurs are currently ranked No. 11 in the nation and will compete in the National Championship tournament in Monroe from March 26–29.
“Our goal is to go from 11 to 1,” Jackson said.
The team says it’s proud to represent San Antonio on the national stage, but players and coaches are asking for help to get there.
“It goes to us traveling – flights, hotel rooms,” Merritte said.
A national championship may be within reach for the team. But Jackson says the real victory is something deeper than a trophy.
“They open up and become more of what they were before their injuries,” he said.
Those interested in supporting the team with donations can click here.