Wheelchair Basketball Players Research Articles

Acute Effect of KinesioTaping on Technical Skills of Wheelchair Basketball Players

The purpose of this research kinesiology taping (KT) is to increase the blood and lymph circulation under the skin and provide the athlete with a comfortable movement capacity. For this purpose, we aim to examine the effect of KT on the shoulder and supraspinatus muscles of wheelchair basketball players on the technical skills of athletes. Ten male wheelchair basketball players between the ages of 20 and 40 participated in the study. In the study, kinesiology tape was applied to the shoulder and supraspinatus muscle regions of the athletes. To evaluate the effect of KT regional shooting (2p), tourniquet, slalom, and sprint tests were applied before and after taping. SPSS 25 statistical program was used for the analysis of the data. The significance value for the analysis was accepted as 0.05. According to the research findings, it was determined that KT was effective in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th regions in shooting from 5 regions, and KT was also effective in 20m sprint, right tourniquet throw, and slalom skills with and without the ball (p<0.05). We can say that KT affects shots made from positions that see the basket from the opposite and diagonal, increasing the dribbling skill and sprint performance. During the competition, it is recommended that the athletes do it on the shoulder and supraspinatus muscle areas.

The Effect of Using Rehabilitative Exercises and KT Adhesive Tapes on Improving the Muscle Strength of the Upper Limbs of Wheelchair Basketball Players

إنّ لاعبي كرة السلة للكراسي المتحركة يفتقرون إلى صفة القوة العضلية ولديهم بطء في الحركة تأتي من قلة القوة الدافعة للكراسي المتحركة الذى يعتبر بمثابة الركن الاساسي لرياضة كرة السلة على الكراسي المتحركة، فالقوة العضلية للأطراف العليا تعتبر بمثابة الجزء الرئيسي للجسم؛ لذا كان لزاماً علينا العمل على تنمية القلوة العضلية للأطراف العليا من خلال استعمال التمرينات التأهيلية والاشرطة اللاصقة في ذلك، ويهدف البحث إلى وضع برنامج تأهيلي مقترح باستعمال (التمرينات التأهيلية _الاشرطة اللاصقة) لدى لاعبي كرة السلة على الكراسي المتحركة باستعمال المنهج التجريبي على عينة قد بلغ قوامها (20) لاعب تنقسم إلى (12) لاعب للدراسة الاساسية مقسمة إلى مجموعتين بواقع (6) لاعبين للمجموعة الضابطة (6) لاعبين للمجموعة التجريبية وقد بلغت عينة الدراسة الاستطلاعية (8) لاعبين على الكراسي المتحركة بكرة السلة من ذوي الاحتياجات الخاصة بأعمار (20_30) سنة ومن اهم نتائج الدراسة أنّ هناك تأثير ايجابي للبرنامج التأهيلي المقترح باستعمال التمرينات التأهيلية والاشرطة اللاصقة على تحسين القوة العضلية ووجود فروق ذات دلالة احصائية بين درجات القياس القبلي والقياس البعدي الخاصة بالمجموعة التجريبية لصالح القياس البعدي في جميع اختبارات القوة.

Evaluating field-goal shooting effectiveness in wheelchair basketball players across a competitive season: a preliminary study.

Information about non-elite wheelchair basketball (WB) players across national competitive seasons are still missing. This study aimed at identifying which situational-related variables were associated with shooting effectiveness in non-elite WB players. All the matches played by one WB team across one national competitive season were video-recorded and analysed; 333 shooting attempts from high-point players and several situational-related variables were considered. Pearson's Chi-square test showed that increased shooting effectiveness under the following conditions: playing on home ground, during won matches, while taking shots with the wheelchair in motion, and when no opposing player raised their arm in defence. Results of the multivariable logistic regression analysis showed a statistically significant influence of match location (p-value = 0.001), shot-clock remaining (p-value = 0.015) and modality of press (p-value < 0.001). The highest attack effectiveness was achieved when teams played at home (odds ratio [OR] = 2.49), while the shooting effectiveness decreased when the shot occurred during the last seconds of the action (OR = 0.36), or the opponents defended with the arm raised (OR = 0.19). These results suggest that coaches should include exercises aimed at shooting under conditions of increased pressure in their programmes in order to create specific situations during the training sessions to prepare their high-point athletes for shots under specific match constraints.

Wheelchair basketball, health, competitive analysis, and performance advantage: a review of theory and evidence.

The purpose of this study was to review the various risks and benefits of wheelchair basketball (WB) and explore some of the research which outlines factors that influence WB player performance and conditioning. WB offers several physical and psychological advantages. Physically, it can improve muscle strength, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness while decreasing the prevalence of chronic physical disorders. From a psychological standpoint, WB has been shown to alleviate anxiety and feelings of depression while also creating and improving social relationships. Despite the many benefits, WB can cause injuries, particularly in the upper extremities, and preventative measures should be employed. WB necessitates intense intermittent efforts and athletes must maintain excellent cardiovascular fitness, strength, and muscular endurance. Healthy sleeping patterns have also been shown to improve performance in WB players. Wheelchair mobility and biomechanical variables as well as wheelchair size and weight appear to be critical success elements in WB. WB can be a powerful tool for coaches and therapists to boost the physical and emotional health of individuals with disabilities and motivate them to participate in team-based sport.

Shoulder Pain Biomechanics, Rehabilitation and Prevention in Wheelchair Basketball Players: A Narrative Review

Wheelchair basketball (WB) is an increasingly popular sport that guarantees numerous health benefits for people with disabilities who regularly practice it, such as an improved quality of life and psychophysical well-being. However, WB is a contact and high-stress sport, which exposes players to frequent overloads and injuries, mainly affecting the upper limbs. Therefore, shoulder pain (SP) is the most common musculoskeletal disorder among WB players, forcing them to suspend or abandon this sport activity. This narrative review aims to summarize all the known literature on this topic and to be a starting point for further research. Firstly, it explores the biomechanical causes that lead to SP and the underlying diseases, among which the most recurrent are rotator cuff tendinopathies. Furthermore, this overview deepens the most effective and specific rehabilitation programs for SP in WB players and it emphasizes the need for further studies to trial new rehabilitative protocols using novel technologies to make them faster and more personalized. In this regard, the general recommendation still remains to perform a combination of exercises such as strengthening, endurance and stretching exercises of various durations and intensities. To conclude, the most important prevention strategies are described, underlining the need for constant sport-specific training led by qualified personnel and suggesting some insights on possible new research aimed at improving wheelchair ergonomics, stressing the importance of a multidisciplinary team fully dedicated to the individual athlete.

Epidemiology of injuries and illnesses in elite wheelchair basketball players over a whole season – a prospective cohort study

BackgroundWheelchair basketball is an adaptation of pedestrian basketball and one of the most popular Paralympic sports worldwide. The epidemiology of health problems in wheelchair basketball has been prospectively studied only during the Paralympic Games, the 2018 World Championships, the 2021 South America Wheelchair Basketball Championship, and one season of two American intercollegiate wheelchair basketball teams. The objective of the study was to prospectively monitor and analyze the prevalence, incidence, burden, and characteristics of injuries and illnesses in a wheelchair basketball league during an entire season for the first time.MethodsAll players of the highest German wheelchair basketball league (Bundesliga) were invited to participate in the study. Included players completed the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire once a week during the entire season 2020/21 to report health problems. Exposure was captured by self-reported training time and officially-recorded competition time.ResultsSixty of 117 players (51%, 47 male, 13 female) of the national league participated with an average response of 93%. Seventy health problems (5.5/1000 exposure hours [95% CI: 4.9–6.1]) were reported, including 54 injuries and 16 illnesses. Prevalence of health problems was 60% (95% CI: 48–72). Most injuries affected the shoulder (32% of all injuries), cervical spine/neck (17%), and hand (13%). More overuse injuries (2.9/1000 exposure hours [95% CI: 2.5–3.3]) than acute injuries (1.3/1000 exposure hours [95% CI: 1.0-1.6]) occurred. Of all health problems, 53% were associated with time-loss. The incidences of all health problems, illnesses, injuries, and overuse injuries were higher in women than in men.ConclusionsCharacteristics and frequency of injuries and illnesses during wheelchair basketball season differed from those during major wheelchair basketball tournaments. The high proportion of overuse injuries and the higher injury rates in women should be regarded in the development of individualized prevention measures. Since results from previous studies during major tournaments are only partially comparable to wheelchair basketball league play, further studies should follow.

Determination of Anthropometric Measurements and Nutritional Status of Wheelchair Basketball Players

The aim of this study was to determine the anthropometric measurements, nutritional habits, and nutritional knowledge levels of wheelchair basketball players. Anthropometric measurements and 24-hour food consumption records were taken from 29 wheelchair basketball players and a structured questionnaire about nutritional habits and knowledge levels was applied to 40 wheelchair basketball players by face-to-face interview. The median values of the anthropometric measurements of basketball players were within the reference range (21.6 kg/m2 for female players, 22.7 kg/m2 for male players). Fifty-two percent of basketball players find their nutritional knowledge level sufficient, 47.5% use media for the source of nutritional information, 45% skip lunch, and 12.5% drink water &amp;gt;2 L/day. The health complaints of basketball players were mostly frequent cramps (17.5%) and cold (17.5%). Nutrients that the majority of basketball players consumed below the estimated average requirements were found to be carbohydrate, fiber, thiamine, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin D. It is concluded that not all basketball players have sufficient nutritional knowledge, and those who do, cannot reflect this knowledge very accurately on their nutritional habits. It will be better for wheelchair basketball players to receive nutritional education. More research is needed to make more accurate evaluations of the nutritional status of athletes with disabilities.

Relationship of Force–Velocity Profile between Field Sprints and Lab Ballistic or Cycling Ergometer for Wheelchair Basketball Players

The upper limb force–velocity relationship (FVR) is a crucial aspect of athletic performance, particularly in para-sports where upper limb movements play a leading role in activities such as wheelchair propulsion. Athletes’ mechanical capacities can be evaluated on the field or in lab conditions. However, no studies have yet indicated a relationship between ergometers and field FVR or performances. Understanding para-athletes’ upper limb FVR can provide important insights for developing effective training programs and improving athletic performance in wheelchair basketball players. Twenty-three wheelchair basketball players (12 women and 11 men) from French national teams performed a battery of three tests consisting of a 20 m sprint (SP) with Inertial measurement units (IMU) on wheels, horizontal upper limb push-offs on a frictionless sled with two Kistler force plates (HBP), and a crank ergometer sprint test (CES) derived from arm ergometer sprints using Brachumera, Lode. For the SP test, the FVR was computed with an estimation of force from the acceleration, the rolling resistance, and an estimation of the air resistance. Correlations between each variable measured were computed via Pearson correlations in R, assuming a strong relationship when r = 0.7–1.0, moderate when r = 0.40–0.69, and weak when r &lt; 0.1–0.39. Significant differences were assumed when p &lt; 0.05. Strong correlations were found between the results of the three tests conducted. The correlation coefficient between maximal theoretical force (F0) data ranged from 0.85 to 0.88, and that between maximal theoretical power (P0) data ranged from 0.87 to 0.94. However, for maximal theoretical velocity (V0) data, the correlations between the three tests were less important. The performance variables showed a strong correlation with power measured in the HBP test without load. There was a significant relationship between the HBP, CES, and SP variables. There was a correlation between performance on the three tests in our population, especially for power. However, the V0 value of HBP was not representative of any performances. This work uses multiple protocols to assess para-athletes’ performance and shows that upper limb symmetry depends on the gesture of the task and the personal sports’ wheelchair.

HRV indicators in wheel-chair basketball players under the influence of training load

Relevance The purpose of this study is to study the functional state and features of the regulation of cardiac activity of athletes with disabilities, with damage to the musculoskeletal system, engaged in wheel-chair basketball. For several years now, the number of athletes in this sport has increased.The purpose of the study is to study the functional capabilities of athletes, which will not only reveal their potential and capabilities, but also identify specific needs that can be met with the help of appropriate training and rehabilitation. Methods and organization of research. Measurements of anthropometric parameters were carried out, conclusions were made on the indicators of pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and heart rate variability. As part of a step-by-step study of the functional state of athletes in the preparatory period of a oneyear training cycle, the level of adaptation of athletes was assessed using cardiointervalometry. As a result of the research, it was concluded that according to the spectral analysis of heart rate variability, the initial state of the autonomic nervous system of the studied group of athletes with musculoskeletal system damage engaged in wheelchair basketball was characterized by simatonia at rest, high pulse, systolic and diastolic, as well as pulse pressure were recorded. It was found that the level of activation of the vasomotor center of regulation has the strongest reliable influence on changes in the pulse as an indicator of adaptive potential. Conclusions. It was revealed that the average values of CCC indicators in Paralympic basketball players differ significantly from those of ordinary athletes. In particular, Paralympic basketball players have high pulse rates, systolic and diastolic, as well as pulse pressure. While the frequency analysis indicators are within the low values.

Analysis of Anthropometric and Playing Ability of Indian Senior Men Wheel Chair Basketball Players with Reference to their Sport Class

Analysis of Anthropometric and Playing Ability of Indian Senior Men Wheel Chair Basketball Players with Reference to their Sport Class

Upper limb cranking asymmetry during a Wingate anaerobic test in wheelchair basketball players.

Interlimb asymmetry of strength and/or motor coordination could limit the performance of wheelchair athletes or increase their risk of injury. Studies of interlimb asymmetry in the lower limbs have shown high between-subject variability that does not depend on the side of dominance and that does not change with fatigue. Upper limb asymmetry is particularly large in manual wheelchair athletes with a lower degree of impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate interlimb asymmetry of forces developed during an upper limb Wingate anaerobic test, the effects of fatigue on force, and differences between high- and low-point players. Twenty-five wheelchair basketball players (13 females and 12 males) of male and female national French teams performed a 30s anaerobic Wingate test on an arm ergometer. Participants were classified into two functional categories, high-point (classed from 3 to 4.5) and low-point (classed from 1 to 2.5), according to the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation classification. Left and right arm forces were measured during the pushing and pulling phases at peak power, 10s, and the end of the 30s test. Upper limb asymmetry changed with fatigue during each phase. Force asymmetry differed between peak power, 10s and 30s, with no consistent increase or decrease. Asymmetry did not differ significantly between low- and high-point players but tended to be greater in high-point players. Asymmetry tended to be greater in the females, with significant differences between the males and females in the push phase. Inter-subject variability was high, but forces were asymmetric for most participants, especially females. The Wingate anaerobic test could highlight problematic asymmetries that might impact daily life or sports performance.

Evaluation of hand functions and distal radioulnar joint instability in elite wheelchair basketball athletes: a cross-sectional pilot study

BackgroundWrist injury affects wheelchair basketball players’ performance; however, the relationship between distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability and hand functions is unclear. This cross-sectional pilot study investigated DRUJ instability in elite female wheelchair basketball athletes using force-monitor ultrasonography.MethodsNine elite female wheelchair basketball athletes (18 wrists) were included in the study. A triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury was confirmed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Hand functions were evaluated based on the range of motion (ROM) of wrist palmar flexion, dorsiflexion, radial deviation, and ulnar deviation; grip strength; arm circumference; forearm circumference; and DRUJ instability or pain using the ballottement test. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare parameters between the TFCC-injured and intact wrists. Radioulnar displacement was measured using force-monitor ultrasonography and pressure data, and the displacement-to-force ratio was used as an indicator of DRUJ instability. The correlation between the DRUJ displacement-to-force ratio and each hand function assessment was evaluated using Pearson correlation coefficient for the TFCC-injured and intact wrists. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) was used to estimate the relationship between hand functions and DRUJ instability.ResultsTFCC injuries in seven wrists were confirmed using MRI findings (38.9%). The ulnar deviation ROM values of the TFCC-injured wrist (n = 7) and intact (n = 11) groups were 38.6 ± 8.0° and 48.6 ± 7.8°, respectively. The ulnar deviation ROM was significantly smaller in the TFCC-injured wrists (p = 0.02, r = − 0.54). In the TFCC-injured wrists, no correlation was observed between the displacement-to-force ratio and the hand function assessment. In contrast, the displacement-to-force ratio negatively correlated with grip strength, arm circumference, and forearm circumference in the intact wrists (Pearson correlation coefficient r = − 0.78, − 0.61, and − 0.74, respectively). The GLMM showed that the displacement-to-force ratio significantly affected grip strength, arm circumference, and forearm circumference in the intact group.ConclusionsIn intact wrists, correlations were observed between hand functions such as upper arm/forearm strength and DRUJ stability evaluated using ultrasound. Maintaining and strengthening grip strength, forearm circumference, and arm circumference are associated with DRUJ stability and may be related to TFCC injury prevention in wheelchair basketball athletes.Trial registration: The protocol was registered with the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000043343) [Date of first registration: 16/02/2021].

The Effect of Functional Classification of Wheelchair Basketball Players on Blood Pressure Values after Physical Activity

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the impact of the functional classification of wheelchair basketball players on blood pressure values after sub-maximal exercise.&#x0D; Methods: the researchers used semi-experimental method with all its procedures to achieve the study objectives. The study sample consisted of (8) players out of the (12) players representing the Jordan national wheelchair basketball team based on the records of the Jordan Paralympic Committee for years 2021, and the players were selected deliberately. The researchers used the semi-experimental method to achieve the study objectives. Moreover, the researchers used the VO2PEAK test and Borg scale of perceived severity statistically, the One Way ANOVA test and the LSD test were used, in addition to the arithmetic mean.&#x0D; Results: The results showed a significant decrease in the value of diastolic blood pressure in the categories (1-1.5) and (2-2.5). This took place lower due to the nature of the disabilities falling under these two categories are according to the classification of wheelchair basketball players.&#x0D; Conclusions: In light of the results, the researchers recommend taking into consideration the values of diastolic blood pressure when developing training programs, especially for players with amputations from the classification of amputations of the lower limbs above the knee.

English

Introduction: Several international sports federations have implemented a standardized injury registration system during their championships. However, very few studies have included athletes with disabilities during major competitions, apart from the Paralympic Games. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the rate and characteristics of illnesses and injuries during the 2021 South America Wheelchair Basketball Championships. Material and method: The coaching staff of the 11 participating teams (a total of 129 players) were asked to report daily all the health problems that have occurred and their characteristics in a standardized form. Prevalence and incidence rates were calculated. Results: In this study 108 health problems were reported, equivalent to 83.7 per 100 players [95% CI: 67.9-99.5], with 8 timeloss health problems (6.2 per 100 players [95% CI: 1.9-10.5]) and a total of 74 medical attention injuries (57.4 per 100 players [95% CI:44.3-70.4]). Were reported 15 diseases, and the most affected organ systems were ophthalmologic, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary. More injuries were recorded during matches (n=43). The most affected regions were shoulder/clavicle (24.7%), hand/fingers (23.7%) and neck/cervical spine (12.9%). The most frequent conditions were muscle contractures/cramps (32.2%), and the predominant mechanism was overuse (53.8%). 2.2% of concussions produced during training were reported. Most of the recorded events were without time loss and with return to full participation between zero and one day. Conclusion: Monitoring of health problems during competitions is essential to determine sport-specific injury risk factors, and a complex approach should be implemented for the recognition of their characteristics in wheelchair basketball players. In this way, adequate preventive measures can be developed.

Evolution of the internal load and physical condition of wheelchair basketball players during the competitive season.

The objectives of this study were to describe differentiated perceived training and match load (dRPE-L) of wheelchair basketball (WB) players during the whole season, to analyze the evolution of players' physical condition changes during a full season and to analyze the association between dRPE-L and changes in physical condition during a full season. Nineteen Spanish Second Division WB players participated in this study. For a full season (10 months, 26 weeks), dRPE-L was assessed with the session-RPE method, separating respiratory (RPEres-L) and muscular (RPEmus-L) perceived load. The physical condition of the players was also assessed at four different times during the season (T1, T2, T3 and T4). The results showed a significantly higher total and average accumulated muscular RPE load (RPEmusTOT-L and RPEmusAVG-L) than total and average respiratory load (RPEresTOT-L and RPEresAVG-L) (p < 0.01; ES = 0.52-0.55). No significant changes were observed in the physical condition of the players at the different moments of the season. Moreover, a significant association was observed only between RPEresTOT-L and Repeated Sprint Ability standard deviation of 3m (RSAsdec3m) (r = 0.90, p < 0.05). The results suggest that the competitive season represented considerable neuromuscular involvement in these players.

With or without straps? A pilot study to investigate whether restraint devices affect the wheelchair basketball players' performance.

Wheelchair basketball (WB) represents a great physical activity, rehabilitation, and integration opportunity for people with disability. Straps are wheelchair accessories used to ensure safeness and stability. Nevertheless, some athletes report feeling limited in movements because of these restraint devices. The aim of this study was thus to deepen whether straps could affect performance and cardiorespiratory effort in WB players' athletic gesture and furthermore whether sport performance could be influenced by experience, anthropometric features, or classification score. Ten WB elite athletes were enrolled in this observational cross-sectional study. Speediness, wheelchair maneuverability, and sport-specific skills were evaluated with 3 tests: 20-m straight line test (test 1), figure 8 test (test 2), and figure 8 with ball test (test 3); all tests were performed with and without straps. Cardiorespiratory parameters (blood pressure [BP], heart rate, and oxygen saturation) were registered before and after tests. Anthropometric data, classification score, and practice's years were collected and compared with test results. Performance significantly improved in all tests wearing straps (test 1 P = 0.007, test 2 P = 0.009, and test 3 P = 0.025). No significant variation in cardiorespiratory basic signs emerged before and after the tests, with or without straps (systolic BP P = 0.140, diastolic BP P = 0.564, heart rate P = 0.066, and oxygen saturation P = 0.564). A statistically significant relation between test 1 with straps and classification score (coefficient = -0.25; P = 0.008) and test 3 without straps and classification score (coefficient = 1.00; P = 0.032) was found. No further relations emerged between test results and anthropometric data, classification score, and practice's years ( P > 0.05). These findings demonstrated that straps, as well as ensuring safety and preventing injuries, also improve the WB performance, stabilizing the trunk and implementing upper limb skills, without exposing players to excessive cardiorespiratory and biomechanical stresses.

King-Devick Test in Wheelchair Sports: Identifying Normative Values and Effects of Exertion on Outcomes.

To establish normative baseline values on the King-Devick (KD) Test for contact wheelchair sport participants. The secondary purpose was to examine the effect of physical exertion on test score. Quasiexperimental. Competitive disability sport venues before practices or games. One-hundred 43 wheelchair rugby or wheelchair basketball (WBB) players completed the study. Participants were predominantly men (87.5%) and played WBB (84%). 30-m wheelchair sprint test to fatigue. King-Devick Baseline Score. Mean KD baseline score was 59.16 ± 15.56 seconds with significant differences ( P < 0.05) identified by sport and impairment type, but not sex. Athletes with spina bifida and cerebral palsy had significantly higher mean baseline KD times than athletes with spinal cord injury. KD scores improved by 3.5% in athletes who reported "light" to "somewhat hard" exertion (RPE = 13). In a subset of athletes who performed sprints until an RPE of 18 was reached, 8 of 12 players (66.7%) demonstrated an improvement in KD score; however, large increases by a few participants caused the noticeable change. Normative values for wheelchair contact sport athletes are meaningfully slower than able-bodied sports participants. KD score improved with exertion with the greater improvement after moderate-intensity compared with vigorous-intensity exercise. These findings can be applied clinically to monitor athlete safety.

Zone defense exercises to develop agility and balance and their impact on the offensive skills of wheelchair basketball players

The aims of the research Preparing the Zone defense exercises to develop fitness and balance and their impact on the offensive skills of basketball players on wheelchairs, and to learn about the impact of the Zone defense exercises to develop agility and balance and their impact on the offensive skills of basketball players on the wheelchairs, and the experimental curriculum adopted the design of the experimental and control groups, on a sample of players Maysan Governorate Committee on the (12) moving chairs, who are continuing their training for the season (2021-2022), were chosen intentionally from their asset in the comprehensive method by (100%), and then divided into the two groups with an equal number, and after specifying the appropriate tests for the privacy of this The sample, the region's defense exercises were tried for a period from 18/4/2022 to 15/6/2022, and then treatment by (SPSS), The Extracts and applications were that the Zone defense exercises are important and effective to develop agility, balance and offensive skills for basketball players on wheelchairs, and that agility and balance is a major requirement for the success of the attacking skill performance in basketball because they contain movements that require attention and rapid action.

Sport Participation for People with Disabilities: Exploring the Potential of Reverse Integration and Inclusion through Wheelchair Basketball.

Reverse integration is defined as the inclusion of able-bodied people into disability sport. For decades, there have been movements towards integrating people with a disability in mainstream society. There has been a lack of research supporting the movement of able-bodied involvement in disability sport, known as reverse integration. In this study, the real-life experiences and motivations of 11 national wheelchair basketball players (four able-bodied and seven with a disability) were explored, identifying the potential of reverse integration and what influenced the players involvement. Thematic analysis was employed using a deductive approach. The social-relational model was used as a framework to help interpret the findings. The results highlighted that health and social benefits were key factors towards prolonged engagement in wheelchair basketball, and it was reported that reverse integration led to an increased mutual understanding of the impact of (dis)ability. All participants reported positive experiences and supported able-bodied involvement, suggesting that able-bodied players play a key role and help to grow the sport locally. However, involvement of able-bodied players was not supported at international level. This challenges the concept of inclusion at higher level and whether the sport could be more inclusive. These findings could provide direction to coaches and policymakers for developing further inclusive opportunities at all levels. Further research may explore coach education programs and learning experiences of becoming an inclusive coach to ensure coaches know how to create, stimulate and coach in inclusive sport environments.

Building, codifying and applying a scale of psychological richness for wheelchair basketball players in Iraq

Building, codifying and applying a scale of psychological richness for wheelchair basketball players in Iraq