An intense display of skill & courage

The best wheelchair basketball players in Canada are now competing in Burlington, for the honour of being named national champs.

Volunteer organizer Shanna Bernacki: “A lot of good ball-handling, shooting and passing, a lot of aggressive plays, hitting chairs, falling out of chairs, that’s really fun to watch.”

Oakville native Melanie Hawtin will represent Canada on our national women’s team at the world championships in Toronto this June.  She says playing in this co-ed tournament is a good way to prepare.

“You know what, some of the girls are pretty tough out there. It’s basketball so, it’s a rough sport, it’s pretty equal though.”

Hawtin made the switch from track to basketball three years ago, and during that time she’s seen the sport become quite competitive here in Canada.

“I think we’ve brought in some knowledge on the coaching side, and that’s really stepped up our game. It’s a faster game, not as much dead time, 10% the whole time.”

“They make it look so easy. People just assume it’s easy, but it’s not.”

Play continues throughout this weekend at the Haber Recreation Centre in Burlington. The gold medal game will take place at 2 pm on Sunday, and admission is free.