There are all kinds of sports out there, and all kinds of athletes. Some area students are learning all about that, and just what it takes to be a winner.
Sports are something that are dear to many of our hearts, but for UW Whitewater's wheelchair basketball teams, they hold even more meaning.
It’s called Cornerstones For Success, and gives teammates a chance to travel around the state and share their stories. The athletes spoke to around 500 Wisconsin Rapids students about life, and the ways they've learned to deal with day to day challenges. Their goal is to show they're really no different than any other athletes they'd see, and that anyone can meet a challenge.
UW Whitewater Women’s Wheelchair Coach and Director of Cornerstones For Success says, “What we try to do is break down some barriers and answer some questions about what disability sports is all about. We'll share our stories and how we have dealt with different obstacles in our lives."
The team demonstrated just how talented they are in their specialized wheelchairs. Students and faculty were even invited to get out on the floor and try and play the athletes, a feat they found was not so easy.
Members of both the men's and women's wheelchair teams have been to the Beijing and London Olympics. That success is what they feel helps make their message sink with the young students they speak to.
The men's wheelchair team has won the last two national championships-- playing teams from around the nation.
