Wheelchair Warrior - Essay Example

 Wheelchair Basketball was credited as being developed by Sir Ludwig Guttmann at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital shortly after World War II. (Paralympics.org: 2011) During this time there were several soldiers who had returned from the war with injuries, and some who were partially paralyzed and confined to wheelchairs for the rest of their lives. The fact that these soldiers were recently paralyzed led to a lot of frustration and no outlet for them to channel their energy. As they began rehabilitation and searched for a physical outlet to relieve stress they decided what better than sports? (Schweiker: 1954) The soldiers began with sports such as ping-pong, catch and pool, then it went to bowling, volleyball and swimming, then to the more energy requiring sports such as water polo, touch-football, softball and basketball. Although several other sports have now been added, it was basketball that overshadowed the others in a few years time in overall popularity. In 1946, other historical documents reveal that the California Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America played the very first match of organized wheelchair basketball, two weeks prior to the New England Chapter. According to these facts, it thereafter spread across the nation to the VA hospitals in Chicago, Memphis, Boston, Richmond and New York. Not before long, the sport had spread across the border to the UK and to Canada as well. (Schweiker: 1954) By time 1948 rolled around, there were six teams in total in the United States. All were members of the PVA and all functioned from Veteran hospitals. This was the same year that the Birmingham, California team obtained a sponsored tour to travel by plane, and play other paraplegic teams across the nation. The immediate result of the first sponsored tour of the Birmingham Flying Wheels was the development of the first wheelchair basketball team outside of VA hospitals in Kansas City. The first ‘civilian’ hometown team was known as the Kansas City Wheelchair Bulldozers (later known as the City Rolling Pioneers). (Schweiker: 1954) In 1955, the Touring U.S. Pan Am Jets team was the first to bring wheelchair basketball to England, when they participated in the first international competition at Stoke Mandeville. (GBWA.org: 2011) Now, there are several teams throughout the United Stated, UK, and rest of the world. The first World Championships for Men, the Gold Cup, took place in Bruges, Belgium in 1975, but has long since continued on thereafter. In the UK, The Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Association governs wheelchair basketball. The GBWA is a registered charity and forms the representative body of wheelchair basketball in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England. Teams in the GBWA league consist of the RGK TCAT Rhinos, Sheffield Steelers, Teamside Owls, GLL Capital City Raiders, Essex Outlaws, Knights and Aces. However there are several more teams at different divisional levels. GBWA.org: 2011) Aside from the GBWA there is also the Welsh Wheelchair Basketball Association WWBA. The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) governs the sport itself. The height of the basket and the size of the court are the same as in the running version of the game (10 feet from the floor and 28mx 15m, respectively). The duration of for all international games is 40 minutes. In terms of eligibility, athletes using wheelchairs play wheelchair basketball, and whose disabilities might include lower limb amputations, paraplegia, polio and cerebral palsy. In general terms, any individual who cannot participate in stand-up running basketball as the direct result of an injury, disabling condition, etc. is eligible to play wheelchair basketball. It is important to note that not all participants in wheelchair basketball use a wheelchair for daily living. (Paralympics.org: 2011). Other important classifications to notice are the points rating system. Athletes in wheelchairs are classified by their physical ability and are given a point between 1-4.5 to distinguish ability. 4.5 are the least disabled while one pointers are the most severely disabled. No more than 14 points be exceeded at a single time, or can they play with more than five players. Wheelchair basketball is a fast-paced, energetic, highly competitive sport. In order for one to gain a competitive edge and be successful they must understand and develop the fundamentals. These are shooting, dribbling, and passing. Out of all the basic skills, shooting is probably considered the most important. Shooting determines the total outcome of the game through scoring points. The free throw, is especially important as it allows for an opportunity for teams to score uncontested or free points. Free throws often end up being the deciding factor in close games. (Malone: 2002) In men’s college basketball in the U.S. there has been a relatively constant success rate of 69 percent in free throw shooting, since the 1970s. In terms of wheelchair basketball, Owen indicates a completion rate of only 45 to 55 percent. Data was collected in 1994 at the Gold Cup Tournament that reaffirmed these low shot percentages, as teams percentages were between 36 to 59 percent. The average players shot just around 47 percent. (Malone: 2002) There are some obvious disadvantages of shooting a basketball from a shooting standpoint, but it seems that the main difference in success can be attributed to differences in the necessary shooting mechanics. It is also interesting to note that wheelchair basketball players have demonstrated consistent shooting averages beyond an outstanding 70 percent. It is necessary to understand the application of mechanics and body movement in order for an athlete’s full potential to be reached. As Elliott states, “only when ‘good technique’ is used in training practice and game matches can a player reach his or her full potential.” (Malone: 2002) Owen believes the reason that several wheelchair basketball free throw percentages are low due to the fact that most players never learned the right technique. Subsequently, the identification of key factors is important for correct training and technique development for wheelchair basketball players. Some say the fundamental skills of passing, shooting, and dribbling are both the same in wheelchair basketball and stand-up basketball. However, wheelchair basketball players are moving lower and the origination of propulsive force comes mainly from the upper body and arms. It is apparent how some degree of skill modification would be needed. (Malone: 2002) As aforementioned earlier there is a classification system used to distinguish level of trunk mobility and physical stability. The 1 class players have a significant amount of loss in stability as the shooting arm extends outward, and often require arm support after the shot. Class 4 players on the other hand, have the ability to move their trunk forcefully in any direction after the shot. (Malone: 2002) To determine the factors of how different muscle and skeletal systems work to affect shooting, an analysis of clean shots was taken at the 6th Men’s Gold Cup World Wheelchair Basketball Championship. The definition of a clean shot is defined as a successful shot that makes it through the hoop without hitting the backboard or rim. In this study player classification along with the mechanics of shooting were compared. The purpose of this investigation was to identify if there was a difference between classes in their shooting mechanics and their success rates. In this study they analyzed the following: the differences in ball release parameters; the difference in classes; and looked at the shooting technique used to achieve success in each class, focusing on velocities of the major joints used and angular displacement.(Malone: 2002) The study revealed that there were significant differences between the classes and their release height. Classes 1 and 2, both had significantly lower release heights than those of heights in Classes 3 and 4. There were also several differences seen between the release angles in the classes. The release angles of Classes 3 and 4 were at 55 degrees while Classes 1 and 2 released the ball at 59 and 58 degrees respectively. What this shows is that the upper classes were using a smaller angle of release than the lower classes. Overall, the results of the study proved to reveal that there are significant differences between the classes in wheelchair basketball free throw shooting mechanics that are necessary for a clean shot. It shows that these players have had to develop different techniques, demonstrated by various aspects of ball trajectory and shooting motions. The technique of the lower classes using higher release angles, left for a greater margin of error. However, these players have been able to develop the necessary required accuracy needed to achieve similar free-throw percentages.(Malone: 2002) In order for the players in the lower classes to successfully shoot free throws, they developed a strategy to use a steeper ball trajectory. However, this unique strategy requires players to create more velocity and force in the shooting arm. The studies show that they were able to accomplish this by using greater maximum angular speeds at the shoulder and elbow. .C This investigation led to some very useful preliminary information in regards to proper shooting mechanics needed for successful free throw shooting in all wheelchair basketball classes. Although this unfortunately one of the most important aspects of the fundamental skills, it is one of the least practiced and least taught. Brancazio argues that coaches have often shied away from altering shooter’s methods at practices. Shooting method must be analyzed no matter whether stand-up or wheelchair basketball in order to improve ability and shooting percentages.(Malone: 2002) Just as important as shooting mechanics is also the ability for players to achieve positive imagery and goal setting while playing the game. Self-efficacy theory states that people are reflexive and rational thinkers who actively regulate their own behaviors in order to set goals and achieve them. A primary drive for behavior is one’s beliefs in their own abilities. Self-efficacy is considered one of the most important aspects of optimal sport performance. (Feltz, Short, & Sullivan, 2008) Self-perception judgments determine how hard athletes decide to train their own personal persistence that they exhibit. This is often talked about in a variety of sports, and should not be overlooked when it comes to wheelchair basketball. Martin determined that performance self-efficacy was directly related to positive emotion. (Martin, 2009) In recent studies, work was extended to include training and performance in self-efficacy, as wells ad resiliency and control self-efficacy. Performance self-efficacy can be defined as confidence in executing several critical basketball fundamental skills. As a result of athletes in wheelchairs often having few competitive opportunities previously and several barriers to training, training in self-efficacy and athlete’s confidence in overcoming obstacles also needed to be addressed. Bandura noted, “The self-regulation of thought process, therefore, plays a significant role in the maintenance of emotional well being.” What this means is that athletes who have the ability to manage distressing thoughts, and can limit upsetting ideas can control how they feel. An athlete should try to stay optimistic and maintain hopeful under stressful or difficult times. This is extremely important in sports, as you may find your team down by a number of points. Self-efficacy and thought control are crucial in determining mental toughness. (Martin, 2009) It is also important to understand how athletes feel through the development of their Positive and Negative Affects (PA & NA, respectively). It is believed that self-efficacy notions play a crucial role in the self-regulation of mood. Athletes must remain efficacious about wheelchair basketball and about managing their emotions in times of difficulty. One of the hardest parts about maintaining this efficacy is in performance vs. training is when physical and metal conditions, life commitments, and competition come into mind. (Martin, 2009) In general wheelchair athletes and other athletes who feel inspired and determined are more likely to have physical and emotional energy allowing them to remain positive and active during distressing thoughts. However, wheelchair athletes who keep optimistic thoughts in times of adversity may limit who upset they are and generate feelings of enthusiasm resulting in reduced Negative Affects and increased Positive Affects. It is important to see that both efficacious thoughts and Positive Affects drive sport behavior and in turn determine performance levels.. (Martin, 2009) Mental conditioning is just as necessary in achieving goals through sports, as is physical conditioning. Mental conditioning is usually based on four main techniques: relaxation, goal setting, imagery and positive thinking. Simple relaxation techniques can help wheelchair athletes to relieve anxiety and tension in order to improve focus and concentration. Imagery can also be a great tool for increasing player confidence. Athletes should picture themselves doing the sport, dressed as in during the game, hearing what they might hear, and seeing what they might see. The must try to feel their muscles in use, and sense their emotions. Players should imagine themselves playing with confidence and skill. If they see incorrect actions in their playing, they must learn to switch to the correct, and replay the image in your mind as they hope if would happen. (MayoClinic, 2011) Setting goals can increase a player’s motivation and provide them with a sense of challenge and help determine both internal and external controls. Ultimately, this will lead to greater confidence and performance. Players should combine both short-term goals and long-term goals related to their personal best or the actions necessary to complete the objective at hand. However, one thing that should not be overlooked is to keep the goals manageable and realistic. As stated earlier lack of self-efficacy and negative outlook can get in the way of confidence and concentration. Players should repeat positive phrases in their minds as they play, and if they make an error, consider it an example of displaced focus. Positive thinking can ultimately lead to confidence in play, focus, and a sense of inner calmness. All are qualities that will allows players to receive the most out of the game. It should not be confused, that several of the highest performing athletes actually remain calm in terms of anxiety, although their heart rate increases during demanding situations. A higher level of sense arousal often leads to facilitation eye-hand response time. (MayoClinic, 2011) There are also several things coaches should know in regards to training wheelchair basketball players. For one, coaches should think of strategies to help players overcome the several barriers that athletes with disabilities are faced with when practicing and training. One suggestion has been for the encouragement of adding training partners, as friendship and bonding are an important factor in the sporting experience. Also, social support should come by way of listening, and challenging athletes to become greater athletes and people. This is positively related to athletes’ efficacy in achieving their greatest athletic potential. It seems as though gender may also be a factor of influence, as female athletes with disabilities reported greater benefits of friendships’ positive impact in disability sport. Coaches should also look for partnerships with organizations that advocate disability sport. (Martin, 2009) In terms of performance efficacy, coaches should casually ask athletes about the skills for which they have the least and most efficacy. This information will serve as the foundation for reaffirming and reinforcing strong efficacy and setting goals for areas where athletes are lacking. It is the relationship between performance efficacy and training self-efficacy that helps indicate the areas of development need. In terms of university athletes, a high training load may contribute to negative affect as a result of being overly tired. Coaches should be aware of players’ moods, as change in mood is often reliable indicator of overtraining. They may want to help them by controlling moods in order to prevent illness, overtraining, missed training and poor performance. (Martin, 2009) Overall one of the most common obstacles that coaches can encounter is how to encourage a disabled athlete to improve their performance in their particular sport. Coaches often make the mistake of just saying, “Get out there and try it!” In order, for a coach to properly instruct the athletes they must take the proper time to train and prepare the individuals to the point where they are comfortable enough to participate in the sport. (Gailey, 2004) However, it is rarely the case with disabled athletes including those participating in basketball. The number of athletes with disabilities is somewhat low, and even scarcer, are the qualified coaches with real expertise who can train them. There are several qualified coaches, but they are spread out due to geographic location. This leads most disabled athletes to rely on themselves, other athletes, able-bodied coaches, parents and clinicians to help them with their skill development. (Gailey, 2004) When coaching the novice wheelchair basketball athlete approaches that can be helpful are as follows: listening to the athletes, seeking other disabled athletes to compete in the events, recruiting able-bodied coaches, calling disabled sports organizations for volunteers, reading publications pertaining to training, videotaping practices and games, using motivational methods, consulting with tech experts about equipment, attending conferences, maintaining records, and experimenting with new techniques. (Gailey, 2004) In dealing with athletes with disabilities, coaches should also be particularly aware of the challenges these athletes deal with when they leave the sport. When coaches help athletes prepare for this break it will eventually increase the odds the players will have in making a successful transition. (Martin, 2009) The world of wheelchair basketball has many similarities to that of stand-up basketball, yet it is important to understand where they differ. Wheelchair basketball has served as an energetic outlet for several disabled people for over 50 years. The popularity is not limited to the UK or the United States, but is now a worldwide phenomenon. As the Paralympic games continue, more and more people will continue to become aware of the sport and its excitement. Disabled athletes have been able to overcome their mental and physical roadblocks by reshaping their self-efficacy and shooting techniques. It is commendable to see thousands of players participating in a high-paced, physically intense sport and accomplishing new feats. What once started out as an outlet for disabled veterans and turned into a global phenomenon. Coaches must continue to look at new methods of encouraging and training these athletes to take the game to new levels of player performance and accomplishment. It will be interesting to see the advancements in the future as more discussion is raised about techniques, performance, and coaching as the level of play gets better and better. References: Disability Sport Wales. (2011) Retrieved from http://www.disabilitysportwales.org Gailey, Robert Phd. (2004) Coaching Athletes with Disabilities: A 12-step program. The O&P Edge. Juette, M. and Berger, R.J. (2008), Wheelchair Warrior: Gangs, Disability and Basketball. Philadelphia: Temple University Press. Malone, Laurie A. (2002) Shooting mechanics related to player classification and free throw success in wheelchair basketball. Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development. Martin, Jeffrey. (2009). Wheelchair Basketball: The role of confidence and emotion. Palestra. Research Application. MayoClinic. (2011) Mental Conditioning: Is your brain in the game? Retrieved from http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/SM/00001.html Paralympics. (2011) Retrieved from http://www.paralympics.org.uk/page.asp?section=0001000100050015§ionTitle=Wheelchair+Basketball Schweikert, Harry A. Jr. (1954). History of Wheelchair Basketball. Paraplegia News. Strand, B.N. and Wilson, R. (1993), Assessing Sport Skills. Human Kinetics Publishers. Conclusion Read More