Wisconsin Wheelchair Rugby

Wheelchair Rugby is played with two teams of four players each. The game consists of four 8-minute quarters, and the team with the most tries (points) at the end wins. Players score by carrying the ball across the opposing team’s goal line. The game allows physical contact between wheelchairs, which is a key component of the sport. Players can pass, dribble, or carry the ball, and must bounce or pass the ball at least once every 10 seconds.

Essential equipment for Wheelchair Rugby includes a sports wheelchair, which is lightweight and reinforced for contact. The wheelchairs are customized with features like spoke guards and anti-tip devices. Players also use gloves for better grip and protection. The ball used is similar to a volleyball.

To compete in Wheelchair Rugby, athletes must have a disability that affects both their upper and lower limbs, such as quadriplegia. Common disabilities among players include spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and amputations. Classification systems are used to ensure fair competition by grouping players based on the extent of their physical function.

Players are classified based on their functional abilities, with each player being assigned a point value ranging from 0.5 to 3.5, in increments of 0.5. Lower points indicate a higher degree of disability. Teams must adhere to a combined player classification total of 8.0 points on the court at any given time. This system ensures balanced competition by accounting for the varying levels of physical function among players.

It happens. Play stops, and the player gets helped up. Typically, players require help up to protect gym floors from scratches and dents.