Neuro Note 2: Rolling Grizzlies

Last Wednesday night, I went to a practice for the Rolling Grizzlies basketball team. I chose to write my neuro note on this to reflect on what a great experience it was. I had never seen an actual professional wheelchair basketball team, and had no idea of how much skill it takes to even dribble the ball and shoot, nonetheless fall out of a wheelchair and climb back in within seconds. At the end of the practice the team let us try their wheelchairs and play some. I was quickly humbled when I air-balled my first shot and then during a backwards race down the court ran over the coach and a player. I was able to talk to the players about questions I had, for instance, of how they get back into their chairs so quickly when they fall. The player thanked me for asking and explained that he loves talking about it because he worked so hard to be able to do it. He then gave me some helpful tips on how to teach people to get back into their wheelchair. 
A huge takeaway from this experience for me was how encouraging and supportive the players were to each other. Other than the actual ‘team’ aspect when playing, I think that this support and encouragement is essential for individuals with a SCI, on and off the court. As an OT I will encourage my clients to join teams/groups like this, not only for their physical well-being but for an overall psychological support. I also recommend that all OTs and everyone in general attend a game and, if possible, try to play!


 
Picture retrieved from: https://www.facebook.com/129140780501102/photos/a.609603315788177.1073741827.129140780501102/609611795787329/?type=3&theater

To learn more the Rolling Grizzles can be found on Facebook as "Memphis Rolling Grizzles" & I have attached a link below of an interview of the Rolling Grizzles on the Memphis news:

 http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/clip/11654067/watch-rolling-grizzlies-wheelchair-basketball-interview-as-featured-on-wmc-action-news-5-weekend




Rolling Grizzles Wheelchair Basketball Interview. WMC Action News 5 Weekend. [Video file]. Retrieved May 4, 2017 from http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/clip/11654067/watch-rolling-grizzlies-wheelchair-basketball-interview-as-featured-on-wmc-action-news-5-weekend

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