WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL Meaning and
Definition
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Wheelchair basketball is a dynamic and adrenaline-fueled team sport that is played extensively by individuals with mobility impairments. It is essentially an adapted version of traditional basketball, with slight modifications to accommodate players who use wheelchairs for their mobility. The game involves two teams, each consisting of five players. The objective is to score points by shooting the ball into the opponent's basket while strategically defending one's own basket.
In wheelchair basketball, players are required to have a permanent physical disability that affects their lower limbs, such as spinal cord injuries, amputations, or neurological impairments. They utilize specialized wheelchairs designed for the sport, which are highly maneuverable and balanced while providing optimal speed and agility for players.
The rules of wheelchair basketball are very similar to able-bodied basketball, with adaptations to suit the unique circumstances of wheelchair users. For instance, players are allowed to travel twice in possession of the ball before dribbling, and contact between wheelchairs is permitted to facilitate gameplay. Additionally, players must consistently maintain contact with their wheelchair, either by touching it or having a body part in it, to ensure fair competition.
Wheelchair basketball promotes inclusivity, teamwork, and athleticism while offering individuals with disabilities equal opportunities to engage in competitive sports. It is played globally at recreational, national, and international levels, with the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) serving as the governing body. This sport not only provides a means of physical activity and recreation but also enhances self-confidence, camaraderie, and social integration among participants.
Etymology of WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
The word "wheelchair basketball" is a compound noun that combines the terms "wheelchair" and "basketball".
The term "wheelchair" dates back to the 1670s and originates from the combination of "wheel" and "chair". "Wheel" derives from Old English "hweol" and represents the circular object used for transportation. "Chair" has its roots in Old English "cærse" and refers to a seat with a back and four legs. Over time, the term "wheelchair" came to specifically signify a chair mounted on wheels, designed for people with mobility impairments.
On the other hand, "basketball" is a noun that emerged in the 1890s when the sport was invented by Canadian physical education instructor James Naismith. The term is a compound noun formed by combining "basket" and "ball".
