Commentary by Harry Selala

“It was my privilege to join Clive Bassant (Community Liaison and Engagement Officer) in being invited to attend the Wheelchair Rugby, International match between England and Wales on 24th August at Christchurch Sports Centre and witness first hand how exciting and physical wheelchair rugby is.

All the attendees, whether they were players or spectators, were treated to a very competitive game that reinforced what an impact a wheelchair can have. I was able to speak to some of the players and get a better understanding of needs and support that the wheelchair service could provide and I hope to be able to more involved at future events.

Congratulations have to go to the England team who won the tournament 6 matches to 1.”

Para-Badminton is a rapidly growing sport suitable for a wide range of physical disabilities. Players can be standing or use wheelchairs. Sessions are run by our coach who provides coaching and organises games to improve your badminton. 

Powerchair Football is the format of football designed specifically for those who use wheelchairs. Using specially designed powered wheelchairs, the game is a 4-a-side format played indoors using a larger ball and upright goal posts. Powerchair Football is unique as it is also mixed gender and open aged, meaning players of all backgrounds can participate. Ages range from 5-65 years old and there are over 500 participants playing powerchair football across England on a weekly basis. Kent currently has one club - Sevenoaks Powerchair Football Club - who train regularly and play in both regional and national competitions.

The Kent County Football Association and the Wheelchair Football Association are working in partnership to explore the creation of a powerchair football team for the East of Kent. They are looking for interested people - players, coaches or volunteers - to get in touch. Future sessions will be delivered by powerchair coaches and equipment will be provided to support new activity.

You can register your interest via the QR code above or you can email Harry Mark at the Kent FA: harry.mark@kentfa.com or 01602 791 850

My name is Archie and  I have been a wheelchair user for almost 3 years. Sport has always been a big part of my life so when I started using a wheelchair it was important for me to find ways to still be part of the sports I loved and to find sports where I'd be supported and understood when my health changed...