WE HAVE THE ABILITY REGARDLESS THE DISABILITY

#SMED 11

I recently had the opportunity to meet and interact with members of the Eagles Wheelchair Rugby Team, whose bus transport to participate in the SA Wheelchair Rugby League Tournament held in Bloemfontein from 1 – 3 July 2011, was sponsored by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

‘Wheelchair rugby is a sport played by persons who have a disability affecting upper and lower limbs. It is a mixed sport, with men and women competing on the same teams. Originally known as “murderball”, wheelchair rugby was developed in Winnipeg in the 1970s for athletes who are quadruplegic. Combining elements of basketball, hockey and team handball, it’s also the only full-contact sport played by people with disabilities. For many, it might be considered ‘just a sport’ but to members of the Eagles Wheelchair Rugby Team, it is their life.’ – Tohier Abrahams

I have absolute admiration for the Chairperson, Tohier Abrahams, who unbeknown to him, have secured the first sponsorship not only for Wheelchair Rugby, but also for applicants emanating from the Western Cape region. Following a recent setback in which the team was unable to participate in East London due to lack of transportation, his determination not to let the players down, reminds me of the quotation by George Bernard Shaw, “ People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can’t find them, make them.”


The opportunity to engage with the Eagles Wheelchair Rugby team, was indeed a humbling and most rewarding experience. In addition to acquiring knowledge of a different type of rugby being played (which I must admit until the meeting, was limited to able-bodied rules and refereeing), I am also thankful for the opportunity to learn a valuable lesson relating to determination in the face of financial obstacles. I’m looking forward to being involved in future projects with them, but most importantly, having the opportunity to learn from an inspirational group of wheelchair-bound rugby players.

In conclusion, I’d like to acknowledge a small group of people who have made transportation and participation in the Wheelchair Rugby League Tournament a reality:
PRASA GM: Corporate Affairs (Justin Mnkandla)
Chairperson , Eagles Wheelchair Rugby Team (Tohier Abrahams)
Spokesperson, Eagles Wheelchair Rugby Team (Na-aymah Samaai)
.“A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has” – Margaret Mead

People interested in participating in wheelchair rugby, can contact Na-aymah Samaai at 083 320 9319


Members of the Eagles Wheelchair Rugby Team with PRASA and Metrorail Management