On the 27th April, thirteen enthusiastic and dedicated Bristol Sports athletes travelled over to UWE to represent Bristol University at the FIRST EVER inclusive varsity. Athletes from both Volleyball and Spartans Basketball Club tried their hand at the Paralympic version of their sport.
Our volleyball players took to the court first. The team was struck down with some last-minute illnesses, and whilst UWE kindly lent us some of their players from the bench, lack of initial synergy meant it took time for the team to settle and we struggled to defend some early points from UWE. Undaunted, by the end of the first set, our Bristol ladies had started to shine, and the final two sets remained tense. We saw some fantastic rallies and it was hard to believe neither team had experience of playing in wheelchairs. Ultimately, UWEs strong bench saw them lift the trophy, but this didn’t diminish the amount of fun had. Both teams even came up with their own set of referee signals for communicating fouls and points!
Next was the turn of the Bristol Spartans. Entering the game with only captain, Anna, having used a
chair before, they faced a tough opposition with UWE. Set up two years ago, UWE Pirates (UWEs wheelchair team) were experienced and disciplined – training weekly and highly knowledgable of all aspects of the sport. Embracing the challenge to its fullest extent, some seamless passing saw Spartans score in the first minutes. Anna (W1) led the ball from the point, as did Laz (M1 captain), who proved a natural in a chair.
As the game went on, Spartans became more fluid in maneuvering on court. Despite most of them having never played together before, team cohesion was fantastic, with flawless ball movement opening up Tinos (M1) for TWO (!!!) three pointers. Putting their height to excellent use, Bigs Natalie (W1), Will (M2), Jonas (M2) and Josh (M2) clocked up a host of interceptions at vital points.
However, UWE fought back fiercely, pressing us hard in the last quarter. Strong defence from Sophie C (W1), Tarkan (M2) and Aisling (W1) allowed Bristol a couple of fast breaks so that they could continue to put points on the board. The game remained tight right to the end, but UWE’s confidence and agility in the chairs, and ability to press the ball hard ultimately meant Spartans were pipped to the post.
Although ultimately defeated, effective communication and generosity with the ball allowed Spartans players to put up such a fantastic fight. Drawn from 3 teams – M1, M2 & W1, who are not familiar in playing together, the Bristol basketball family displayed their commitment to each other throughout the game
It was an amazing evening of sport and fun; an exciting opportunity for all the students involved to be a part of Bristol history, as well as meet some new friends and take a much-needed stress break from studying. Spartans are hoping to make this an annual event, and are keen to expand and collaborate with more societies to host Paralympic sports – so get in touch if your sports club would be interested in becoming more inclusive!
If you are reading this post and are interested in knowing more we’d encourage you to go home and watch some Paralympic sports, or even give one a go yourself. We promise you will have SO much fun.
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This blog post was by Anna Francesca Pollard
Event Organiser, Club President 23/24
University of Bristol Spartans Basketball Club