The annual BCWBS Junior Challenge took on a fresh look this year, with a new location (Elgin Park Secondary in South Surrey) and a new time of year bringing excitement and energy to the event. Young athletes and families from Prince George, Kamloops, Kelowna, Victoria, Parksville, and the Lower Mainland came together to celebrate the sport of wheelchair basketball in a weekend full of learning, growth, and fun.
Saturday kicked off with a Let’s Play session, introducing children under 12 to a sport wheelchair and giving them the chance to explore movement in a whole new way. These sessions not only helped kids build fundamental movement skills, but also encouraged their social, emotional, and physical development through play. Parents networked while their children played and gained valuable connections to each other and the wheelchair basketball community.
The Junior Division featured athlete assessments, skill development, and modified games designed to challenge and inspire. All participants enjoyed a tasty lunch generously sponsored by Panago Pizza, and everyone received a BCWBS #pushthegame reversible jersey to take home. Laughter, determination, and new friendships filled the gym.
The event was guided by BCWBS certified coaches, with support from new coaches in training for the upcoming BC Wheelchair Basketball League Let’s Play Junior Division. It was an excellent opportunity for coaches to gain confidence and practical experience while supporting the next generation of athletes.
BC Wheelchair Basketball Society extends a heartfelt thankyou to viaSport, Panago Pizza, and Jumpstart for making this year’s Junior Challenge possible. With their support, young athletes across the province had the chance to push their game, build skills, and experience the joy of wheelchair basketball.
Check out the event photos taken by Toru Furukawa on our Facebook page.
