Everyone gets a shot at York Sharks Wheelchair Basketball
York Sharks Wheelchair Basketball Club is an inclusive and welcoming sports club where people of all abilities can come together to enjoy the fast-paced, exciting game of wheelchair basketball. Players range from as young as five to those in their 60s and beyond. The club is proud to create a space where everyone can take part, have fun, and feel supported.
Held weekly at Fulford School Sports Hall, the club attracts participants from across York, Ryedale, Selby, Harrogate, and even as far as Durham. The club’s open-door policy and the offer of free first-time sessions help make wheelchair basketball more accessible, breaking down barriers and encouraging new people to get involved and give it a go.
York Sharks is about much more than just basketball. The club brings people together in an active, social environment that promotes fitness, wellbeing, confidence, and lasting friendships. For some participants, particularly those with learning disabilities or living in care homes, it enables them to interact more frequently with the community in a social setting.
How funding makes a difference
Using a grant from Two Ridings, York Sharks have been able to purchase a secure storage container to house their large amount of equipment which includes, a number of sports wheelchairs to suit the various ages and player sizes that attend, bags of basketballs, coloured bibs, mobile basketball hoops for younger players, and adaptive baskets for players of varying abilities.
Previously, they were renting a storage container that was in poor condition and incurred significant ongoing costs. Owning a container not only means the equipment is kept in better condition, but it also eliminates monthly hire fees, freeing up funds to put directly into coaching and creating flexible, accessible sessions.
This practical support helps York Sharks focus on what matters most, welcoming players of all abilities and making sure everyone gets a shot at enjoying the game.
A unique and inclusive space
York Sharks is unique in the region for its inclusive approach. The club welcomes up to 25 players each week, adapting activities to meet everyone’s needs, from competitive drills for skilled players to chair-movement basics for beginners.
It’s also one of the few clubs that actively include adults with learning disabilities, often joined by their families and carers, creating a genuine sense of belonging and achievement for everyone involved.
Together, creating lasting impact
Funding has supported York Sharks in their continued growth, supporting more people, and offering inclusive, engaging activities for children and adults alike, knowing their kit and equipment have been well kept and stored.
As one club member put it:
“You’ve helped us store our equipment properly, which means we can now focus on what we do best; helping people get fit, feel better, and have fun. For many of us, this is the only sport we can access. Thank you for making it possible.”
York Sharks Wheelchair Basketball Club is not just about sport; it’s about creating joy, connection, and opportunity for all.
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