CHD Wheelchair-basketball Clinic Date Changed to Feb. 20

WEST SPRINGFIELD — CHD Disability Resources will offer a free wheelchair-basketball clinic on Monday, Feb. 20 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at CHD’s gymnasium at 69 Capital Dr., West Springfield. This is a change from a previously announced date. There is no cost to attend, and all participants qualify for raffles, prizes, and giveaways.

The clinic will be led by Paul Weiland, a certified health and physical education teacher with an adaptive physical education certification. Weiland, Adapted Sports Program coordinator for Chapter 126 Sports & Fitness, has coached wheelchair basketball at the high-school and college levels and was part of the USA Paralympics wheelchair-basketball selection committee in 2008. He will be supported by volunteer staff, including therapeutic recreation students from Springfield College and varsity basketball players from Springfield College and American International College.

“We’re thrilled to have Paul Weiland running our wheelchair-basketball clinic,” said Jessica Levine, program manager for CHD Disability Resources. “He is passionate about helping individuals of all abilities realize their full potential on the field of play and in life. Like every Disability Resources program, this wheelchair-basketball clinic enables people to focus on what they can do, as individuals and as teammates. Especially for people who are new to wheelchair basketball, this clinic will provide a great introduction along with opportunities to meet other interested players and families and to learn more about Disability Resources in general. We’re all about access and ability for kids, adults, and families in Western Mass.”

For people interested in getting more involved with wheelchair basketball, Disability Resources is offering a 10-week program on Friday evenings from March 3 through May 5, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at the Pace Gym, 69 Capital Dr., West Springfield. Players will be taught fundamental skills and game-related strategies while focusing on the values of teamwork and respect.

To learn more about wheelchair basketball or to sign up for programs, contact Levine at (413) 788-9695.

Disability Resources is dedicated to serving the needs of persons with disabilities and their families. The organization offers a wide range of programming, including adaptive sports like wheelchair basketball and sled hockey, exercise programs like movement art and lap swimming, family activities including fishing and picnicking, and more. Disability Resources is a nonprofit organization focused on Western Mass., and every dollar of funding is raised through events, grants, and generous members of the community. Disability Resources also receives funding from CHD.