Telangana claimed victory in the Wheelchair Basketball Championship held at the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) on Sunday, defeating Karnataka decisively with a score of 34-11. This championship not only showcased exceptional sportsmanship but also marked a significant milestone for wheelchair basketball in India.
The tournament, hosted at AMTZ, brought together para-athletes from various states, providing them with competitive opportunities to demonstrate their skills. The event underscored the increasing recognition and talent within adaptive sports, highlighting the progress made toward inclusivity.
One of the major highlights was the debut of the Andhra Pradesh wheelchair basketball team. Despite training for only 10 days, the team managed to secure third place, surprising spectators and emphasizing the region's potential in adaptive sports. To support the team’s preparation, AMTZ organized special training camps, showcasing its commitment to fostering talent among athletes with disabilities.
“This championship marks a key milestone in the growth of wheelchair basketball in Andhra Pradesh,” said Dr. Jitendra Sharma, Managing Director and Founder CEO of AMTZ. “It’s inspiring to see the athletes perform at such a high level, and AMTZ remains committed to supporting their development and representing the state on international platforms.”
Varun Ahlawat, President of the Wheelchair Basketball Federation of India (WBFI), expressed appreciation for AMTZ’s partnership. “Its support has been invaluable, not just for this national championship but also for helping organize international events. We are thrilled to announce AMTZ will now serve as the permanent training hub for Andhra Pradesh players,” Ahlawat noted.
Organizing such events is part of AMTZ’s broader objective to boost participation and inclusion within the sport, particularly in areas where wheelchair basketball has not been widely recognized. Hosting the championship is viewed as a strategic move to lay the groundwork for future competitions and establish the sport firmly within the region.
The atmosphere during the tournament was vibrant, with participants showcasing remarkable talent and stamina. The competition was fierce, but the spirit of unity and sportsmanship prevailed, as athletes cheered each other on. The event served not only as a competition but also as a celebration of capabilities and resilience.
AMTZ continues to play a pivotal role in promoting para-sports by hosting major events such as the Boccia National Championship, and supporting athletes both at national and international levels. The collaboration between AMTZ and the WBFI reflects a shared commitment to empowering athletes with disabilities, providing resources, and fostering wider community involvement.
“It's about creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of their physical challenges,” said Dr. Sharma. “The vision is clear, and with continued support, we aim to inspire more individuals to engage with wheelchair basketball, enhancing the sport’s competitive framework.”
This championship is not just a sporting event; it symbolizes hope and empowerment for many athletes who strive for recognition and success. With proactive initiatives focused on inclusion, the future looks promising for wheelchair basketball and para-sports at large.
The successful hosting of this championship is anticipated to inspire increased participation across various regions, encouraging more aspiring athletes to take up wheelchair basketball. Such developments represent significant progress toward establishing inclusive sports environments across India.