Lowcountry FCA Wheelchair Basketball
Kickoff Clinic
Saturday, January 11 | 9am - 11am
Charleston Baptist Church | 13 San Miguel Road, Charleston
Cost: FREE | Lunch provided for players & family
Check in starts at 8:30am!
Lowcountry FCA is seeking to start a wheelchair basketball team for youth in the community with physical disabilities! We are looking for more boys and girls aged 17 and under to join our team and would love for interested players and parents to attend our clinic on January 11. The clinic will take place at Charleston Baptist Church in West Ashley from 9am-11am and lunch will be provided. There is no cost to attend this clinic, but we do ask that you register in advance so we know how many people to expect. Questions? Read below for answers to common questions or use the contact form to get in touch!
Q: What do we need to bring on January 11?
A: Comfortable clothes to play in and a manual chair if you have one. We will have a few sport chairs on site for kids to try out and will be sharing information with parents on how to get their own in the future. For this team we will use Spalding Rookie Gear Size 27.5in balls. If you have one or want to purchase one you can bring it and if not they will be provided for the day!
Q: My child has never played basketball before. Would this be a good fit?
A: Yes! This is open to to players of all experience levels and will be beginner friendly. Most participants have never tried wheelchair basketball before and we expect to learn together.
Q: My child has a disability but doesn't typically use a wheelchair. Can they still participate?
A: Yes, depending on their disability! The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) has certain eligibility requirements that players must meet to be certified. We will talk more about this at the clinic and help you navigate the registration requirements. Even if your child doesn't typically use a wheelchair, the chair is meant to give them access to speed and stability - not limit them!
Q: My child has a cognitive disability. Is this team for them?
A: Not necessarily. This team will be a Paralympic-style team geared towards athletes who have physical impairments that keep them from participating in traditional sports settings. If your child has a cognitive disability, we recommend getting involved with the Special Olympics and can even help you get in touch with our local chapter!
Q: My child is over the age limit listed. Is there anything for them?
A: At this time we are seeking to start two teams for youth under the age of 18. However, if your child would still like to attend, we would welcome them and would love to help find a way to get them playing.
Q: Is there an age cutoff for younger children?
A: All are welcome! Younger children may not be able to participate in sanctioned competitions, but will still be able to be on the team and participate in practices. Our only requirement is that they are able to participate without parent assistance.
Q: What do you mean you're starting a team?
A: We plan to start weekly practices on the first Monday in March and start competing in the 25-26 season. We will discuss this more at the clinic!
Q: Can I be involved?
A: Yes! We need committed parents to help with things like running practices, coordinating travel to tournaments, and fundraising for the team. Make sure to stick around after the clinic to talk to us!
Thank you for contacting us!
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
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