Wheelchair rugby at TECT Arena

Wheelchair rugby was the highlight for some athletes as they took part in Parafed Bay of Plenty’s Have a Go Day at TECT Arena.

Wheelchair rugby tournament organiser Neil Cubby says the tournament involves players from around the North Island.

Bengals take on the Panthers at the Wheelchair rugby tournament at TECT Arena.

He says the tournament is based on what is called a “bash”.

“It is where the regions enter the players that are available to play. They will go into a hat and the tournament organisers will write up teams that are fairly evenly spread.”
He says the beauty of having the event in the Bay of Plenty is that he is part of a new club and they get to play with international players.

“If we were to put a team out we wouldn’t be very competitive, so these guys get to play alongside international players and learn how to play the game well and there should be no mismatches.”

Neil says they have around 40 players and 60-80 support staff.

“Come down and have a look. It’s a fantastic spectator sport where its contact. Wheelchairs crash into other wheelchairs. Players go flat out.

“It’s an exciting sport and we want to get more people involved in.”

Those wanting to get involved can contact Sophie Jackson at Parafed Bay of Plenty.

People were also given the chance to have  go at other sports including blokarting, boccia, bowls, table tennis and basketball as part of Parafed’s Have a go day.