Wheelchair Tennis
Wheelchair Tennis
Basics
A fully integrated sport, wheelchair tennis is similar to the able bodied game with the only modification being that an athlete can allow the ball to bounce twice before it is hit
In 1976, American wheelchair user Brad Parks hit a tennis ball from his wheelchair and the sport was born! Since then it has become vastly popular around the world with over 170 events taking place all over the world
The most recognised quad player is Peter Norfolk, the Brit has won two Paralympic gold medals in 2004 and 2008. In the ladies game, Esther Vergeer dominates, she has won a total of 5 Paralympic gold medals, 3 singles and 2 doubles. In November 2010, she increased her outstanding consecutive winning streak to 400 games without loss!
Who can participate?
Anyone with a permanent mobility related physical disability which results in substantial loss of function in one or both lower limbs is eligible to play wheelchair tennis. All disabled athletes compete together in singles or doubles events which makes the sport exciting due to the mix of disabilities. However, there are separate singles and doubles events for quadriplegics who have impairment in all four limbs.
Where in the world?
Wheelchair tennis is popular across the globe thanks to the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour due to feature 173 tournaments in 46 countries in 2011. The tour is also worth more than $1 million in prize money. 2011 is also a big year for the sport due to it being played at all four able bodied Grand Slams. In Beijing 2008,
What’s near me?
To get involved in this fast and exciting sport visit http://www.itftennis.com/wheelchair/generalinfo/gettingstarted.asp
Further information
