Wheelchairs will be rolling fast, and pride will be on the line as community members square off in the second annual wheelchair basketball game at Spencer Middle School on May 26.
The friendly matchup – running from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. – will serve as the official kickoff for National AccessAbility Week in the West Shore, a vital initiative running from May 25 to May 31 dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and barrier-free community.
Bobbi Neal, community director at West Shore Parks & Recreation, said last year's event was a highlight for their department.
"We had roughly 250 people come out to support and play, the energy was high, and everyone had a great time," Neal said. "We are expecting that same level of excitement this year, and Spencer Middle School is a great place to host it."
Among those in attendance last year was Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson.
"It meant a lot to everyone there to have some important figures from the community come out and show their support for inclusion," Neal said. "This isn't just a one-night event though – Access West Shore is really lifting their weight and making strides with inclusion in our area."
Hosted by Access West Shore Society in partnership with One Ability and Victoria Wheelchair Sports, the event returns for a second straight year following a high-energy debut in 2024.
Access West Shore Society, formerly known as the Intermunicipal Advisory Committee on Disability Issues, is a volunteer-led group that advocates for improved accessibility in everything from transportation and housing to recreation and education. Their goal is simple: make communities more inclusive for everyone.
“Sometimes you don’t need to say as much as see life in action,” said Rene Poirier of Access West Shore. "Marnie (Essery), our president, puts in so much time and energy into making our area more inclusive, and this night will be a prime example of that."
Poirier, who joined Access West Shore just over two years ago, grew up playing basketball and understands the power of events like these.
"Growing up, I got to play some wheelchair basketball with Rick Hansen and Terry Fox. Obviously, those are names that everyone knows, but that is just a small bunch of people who utilize this sport over the years," Poirier said. "Regardless if it is your first time on the court, or your 100th, it is a great time and gives everyone a chance to play one of Canada's games."
A halftime performance by students from Spencer Middle School will add a touch of flair to the evening’s festivities. Community members are invited to take in the action.
