PCYC NSW wheelchair sport ensures ‘life-changing inclusivity’ for youth

To ensure every young person can access and participate in sport and recreation activities regardless of where they come from or their ability, PCYC NSW is offering wheelchair basketball at several PCYC Clubs, including Dubbo and Wellington in the Central West region..

PCYC Wellington Senior Activities Officer, Zoe Morgan advised “It’s open to all abilities, and once players are in a wheelchair, everyone is on the same level, there’s no advantages to not having a disability – there’s something special about that inclusion, everybody leaves with a smile on their face.”

Morgan’s nine-year-old son Jay lives with a disability that impacts the mobility of his lower body, she recently brought the sport to Wellington in the hopes that Jay would be able to participate again, and the positive impact has warmed hearts across the community.

Zoe Morgan noted that Jay would usually have to step aside and sit out at a certain point in regular sports adding “since coming to PCYC, that’s no longer an issue – it also helps other young people understand what using a wheelchair is like.”

As demand grows, what is currently ‘Learn to Play’ will soon be branched out into official competitions at PCYC’s Dubbo Sports World – and an expansion to other sports too.

Zoe Morgan added “the dream is to offer wheelchair rugby league, and wheelchair soccer. It’s a work in progress sourcing the funding, but one that will benefit many people. It’s life-changing inclusivity.”

Wheelchair basketball is also offered at other PCYC Clubs in partnership with Wheelchair Sports NSW.

Wheelchair Sports NSW Chief Executive, Mick Garnett noted “the sport is at all time record participation levels, and PCYC Clubs are playing a big role in that growth.

As we look to continue this record growth in wheelchair basketball leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games, our partnership with PCYC will be crucial, particularly across regional New South Wales.”

PCYC NSW encourages people from all walks of life to get involved in the activities on offer at their local Club. More Than A Club, A Place You Belong.

PCYC is a leading Australian youth charity dedicated to empowering young people and building stronger, healthier communities. Established in 1937, PCYC provides a wide range of youth programs, including sports, recreation, education, and personal development opportunities, with a focus on creating safe spaces where young people can thrive.