Manx Sport and Recreation is developing Wheelchair Sports on the Isle of Man. To start establishing the foundations of a Wheelchair Sports Club, the Sports Development Unit is hosting an informal meeting on Wednesday (27 July) at the National Sports Centre Cafe in Douglas from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. The meeting has been organised to discuss development of this club in an attempt to formalise Wheelchair Sports as an official club on the Isle of Man. Wheelchair sports are not solely directed at individuals who habitually use a wheelchair. They also facilitate people who suffer a wide range of disabilities to participate in sport including paraplegics, people with spina bifida, amputees, brittle bones, cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis. Able bodied players are also eligible to get involved either as coach, participant or wheelchair mechanic. Virtually everyone who can conceivably play wheelchair sport is encouraged to do so. Not only does wheelchair sport offer a great rehabilitation from injury or illness, it also provides everyone with an opportunity to participate at any level they wish. It can encourage individuals to meet new friends, have fun whilst improving health, confidence and self esteem. The Sports Development Unit is starting to develop a variety of wheelchair sports such as rugby, basketball and football. Through sponsorship from the Wooden Spoon Charity, sport specific wheelchairs can now be purchased for this initiative. Hon David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure commented: ‘This is a fantastic new initiative that will increase the access to sport for all adults and children with disabilities.’ If you would like to become involved in the development of this club either as a player, official, volunteer or mechanic please come along to the meeting on Wednesday (27 July) to voice your opinion and show your interest. For more information on this initiative, please contact: Zoe Carney, Disability Sports Development Officer via email Zoe.Carney@gov.im or tel: 688575, or Ian Williams, Rugby Development Officer, on 686808. Ends