The Latest:
05.22.13 2013 Coloplast Canadian Wheelchair Rugby Championships
Congratulations to the Manitoba Provincial Wheelchair Rugby Team for placing 2nd in division 2 of this year's national championship in Calgary, Alberta. Team Toba had a record of 2 wins and 2 losses in the round robin play, which led to a bye into the gold medal game. Manitoba played well in the final, but lost out to a very skilled Team Saskatchewan by a score of 52 -43.
Congratulations to Manitoba's Jared Funk for being selected to the 2013 All Star Team for being the voted the best 0.5 player in the tournament. We would like acknowledge Team Toba Head Coach Clayton Carriere on a job well done, leading the team to 2nd place finish at his first national tournament! Finally, thank you very much to the volunteer equipment managers and support staff Bill Funk and Leon Farthing.
For pictures and details on the tournament please follow the below links to the MWSA Facebook Page and Canadian Wheelchair Sports Image Gallery.
Canadian Wheelchair Sports Image Gallery
05.15.13 Hiring: Junior Developement Coordinator
MWSA is hiring a student to fill a summer term as the Junior Development Coordinator. For further details and the offcial job posting, please click here.
To apply please send cover letter and resume to mwsa@sportmanitoba.ca.
Submission deadline Tuesday May 28, 2013.
05.15.13 2013 Wheelchair Tennis Programs
Wheelchair Tennis Summer Programs
Both Programs are starting Thursday May 16 @ 6:30 pm at Norwood Community Center, located at 87 Walmer Street in Winnipeg.
The program will be drop-in every Thursday until October.
For further details and contact info please click on the links below.
05.14.13 Good luck Provincial Wheelchair Rugby Team!
The Provincial Wheelchair Rugby Team will be competing May 17-19, 2013 at the Wheelchair Rugby Nationals taking place in Calgary. The 2013 team consists of: Jared Funk, Arin Smith, David Tweed, Jonathon Burzuik, Daniel Rockenstein, and Dan Fletcher. Coach - Clayton Carriere. Equipment Manager - Leon Farthing-Nichol. Staff - Bill Funk and Ryan Van Berkel.
The team has been training long and hard for the past 8 months as they strive to defend their 3rd place finish from 2012, with the ultimate goal of 1st place in 2013. GOOD LUCK TEAM!
05.09.13 Notice of Annual General Meeting
Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association will be holding its' AGM on Wednesday June 19, 2013. The meeting will be held at the Sport For Life Centre, 145 Pacific Avenue beginning at 5:30 pm. We encourage all members to attend as it is an excellent opportunity to learn more about MWSA, hear about the associations' successes and challenges, plans & goals for upcoming year.
As well, there are 5 Board positions up this year and the new Board will be determined at the AGM. If you are interested in becoming a Board member, contact the office at 204-925-5790 or mwsa@sportmanitoba.ca for more information. MWSA is seeking individuals who want to work on the development of programs, assist with the growth of the organization, and are highly motivated.
For more information on the AGM and for Board nomination forms, click here.
To view the agenda, click here.
05.06.13 Mini-Paralympian Camp Series a Success!
The winter/spring 2013 Mini-Paralympian Camp Series was a huge success! Thank you to the more than 25 Mini-Paralympians who participated in wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, able sail, wheelchair curling, and, wheelchair tennis. Next up, Mini-Paralympian week long camp August 19-23, 2013. Details will be available by the end of May 2013.
05.06.13 Maureen Orchard - YMCA/YWCA Award Recipient
On May 1, 2013, MWSA member Maureen Orchard was honored for her contributions in wheelchair sport, specifically wheelchair basketball with a YMCA/YWCA Woman of Distinction Award. Click here to read story. Congratulations Maureen!
05.06.13 Jared Funk honored by the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons
MWSA member Jared Funk was recently honored for his athletic achievements in wheelchair rugby by the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disables Persons, www.cfpdp.com. The awards luncheon was held at the Royal York Hotel in Toronto on April 25, 2013. Congratulations Jared!
04.24.13 JOEY JOHNSON inducted into Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame!
MWSA member, Joey Johnson will be inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame. Congratulations Joey on this honor! Click here to see article in Winnipeg Free Press.
04.24.13 JAMBOREE POSTPONED.
The multi-sport JAMBOREE scheduled for Saturday April 27, 2013 has been postponed. New date and details still to be determined.
04.09.13 BRIDGING THE GAP Website
Bridging the Gap Launches New Site
Canadians looking for information on how to get involved in wheelchair sports can now do so from the comfort of their own home thanks to the new Bridging the Gap website, which launched today at www.btgcanada.ca.
04.09.13 MWSA HAVE- A-GO DAYS A GREAT PLACE TO TRY A NEW SPORT!
WHAT IS A HAVE-A-GO DAY?
Our "Have a Go" days offer a variety of different sports for participants to sample in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Current wheelchair athletes demonstrate sports and share their stories of getting involved and being physically active. The focus of the program is to introduce and support continued involvement of individuals with physical disabilities in wheelchair sports.
Have A Go Days are held at the Joe Doupe Centre (HSC), 727 McDermot Avenue, every second Wednesday from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.
Upcoming 2013 Dates:
April 17, May 1, May 15, May 29, June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21.
Fall 2013 schedule will be posted at a later date.
03.28.13 Bill Funk nominated for Volunteer of the Year
BILL FUNK has been nominated for Sport Manitoba's Volunteer of the Year 2013. Bill has been volunteering with the Wheelchair Rugby Program for more than 15 years in various capacities such as coaching and equipment manager. He has been involved in multiple community outreach programs and has spent time promoting wheelchair sports and wheelchair rugby at Have-A-Go Days at the HSC and Soldiering On in Shile, MB. Bill is a strong advocate for raising awareness of the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle for the physically disabled.
The Awards Evening is on Tuesday April 30, 2013 at the Convention Centre. To purchase tickets, contact the MWSA office.
Good luck Bill!
03.25.13 IAN CROWE - National Wheelchair Rugby Team
MWSA member IAN CROWE has been named to Canada's National Wheelchair Rugby Team! Congratulations Ian! Visit www.cwsa.ca for more information.
03.01.13 Murderball a SUCCESS!
The Murderball Rugby Tournament took place February 22-24, 2013 at West Kildonan Collegiate. It was a tremendous success with 5 teams competing (Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, and Team Prospect Camp)! Thank you to all volunteers and Officials for assisting throughout the weekend. As well, thank you to the following for their contributions:
1. Sport Manitoba - Tournament Hosting Grants.
2. Canadian Wheelchair Sport Association - Podium Club Grant.
3. Shoppers Drug Mart, 2025 Corydon Avenue - bottled water.
4. Mrs. Geraldine Bruneau for baking 300 cookies and providing coffee!
5. Mrs. Nicki Douklias - monetary donation.
6. Fairmont Hotel.
7. Dignity Taxi Service.
See you in 2014!
02.13.13 Murderball Tournament
MWSA will be hosting the Murderball Classic - Wheelchair Rugby Tournament February 22-24, 2013. The tournament is taking place at West Kildonan Collegiate, 101 Ridgecrest Avenue, Winnipeg. Games begin at 5:00 pm on February 22, 9:30 am on February 23, and 9:30 am on February 24. Fore a detailed game schedule, click here. See you next weekend!
02.10.13 Wheelchair Rugby Officials Clinic
The Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association will be hosting an Officials Clinic for Wheelchair Rugby.
When: Friday February 22, 2013, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Saturday February 23, 2013, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Sunday February 24, 2013 – 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Where: West Kildonan Collegiate, 101 Ridgecrest Avenue, Winnipeg.
The Officials Clinic is being held in conjunction with the Wheelchair Rugby Murderball Tournament. The clinic will include theory on February 22 and the morning of February 23 and hands-on Officiating throughout the weekend tournament.
The clinic will be facilitated by Ryan Gaudet. Ryan has been Officiating Wheelchair Rugby for 12 years and received his international licence in Bogota, Columbia at the American Zonal qualifier in 2012 for the Paralympic Games. He has been the Head Official in the Prairies for the past 8 years and he looks forward helping develop new Officials in the Prairies.
There is no fee to attend the clinic and become an Official.
To register, contact the MWSA office by Wednesday February 20, 2013 at ph. 204-925-5790 or email-mwsa@sportmanitoba.ca.
02.05.13 Assistant Coach for Junior Wheelchair Basketball Team
The Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association is currently hiring an Assistant Coach for our Junior Wheelchair Basketball program. For job posting, click here.
02.05.13 Mini-Paralympian Camp
The first of 4 camps was held on Saturday February 2. The participants had a great time participating in wheelchair basketball and being entertained by a magician! Thanks to Joey Johnson for bringing his 4 Olympic medals for us all to see!
01.28.13 Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association
The Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association recently held their annual awards dinner. MWSA member, Joey Johnson (wheelchair basketball) was named one of the 5 finalists for Male Athlete of the Year.
01.18.13 JAMBOREE RE-SCHEDULED
The Jamboree that was scheduled for Saturday January 19, 2013 will now take place on Saturday April 27, 2013. Details will be posted in March.
01.16.13 Wheelchair Rugby Team in Edmonton
The Wheelchair Rugby Team will be competing in a wheelchair rugby tournament in Edmonton January 19-20, 2013. Good luck as they strive to finish in 1st place!
01.16.13 Multi-Sport Jamboree re-scheduled
Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association has re-scheduled our Jamboree from Saturday January 19, 2013 to Saturday April 27, 2013. More details will be available in the coming months.
01.12.13 Aaron Moseley-Williams selected for Team Canada!
2013 NATIONAL WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL TEAMS NAMED
(Las Vegas, NV)Wheelchair Basketball Canada is pleased to announce the names of the 24 athletes selected to represent Canada in 2013 as members of the Senior Men’s and Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball Teams.
The rosters includes nine returning players from the London 2012 Paralympic gold medal winning men’s team, and ten returning players from the women’s team.
"The three new players give our senior team an injection of youth and top-end speed, and I'm looking forward to working them into the various line-up combinations. At the same time, I'm excited about the additional opportunities for our development athletes and Futures Program players to compete internationally in 2013," said Jerry Tonello, Team Canada men's head coach.
“Our team is a fast, high-energy group and I’m looking forward to watching our younger players develop and learn from the dedication and motivation of our veterans,” said Bill Johnson, Team Canada women’s head coach.
The teams were selected from a pool of 46 athletes (22 men and 24 women) who attended a weeklong selection camp January 2-8, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The 12 men and 12 women named to Team Canada in 2013 are: (athletes’ city of residence indicated / returning players from the 2012 team denoted with a *):
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Aaron Moseley-Williams (Winnipeg, Man.) Abdi Dini (Scarborough, Ont.) * Brandon Wagner (Burlington, Ont.) * Chad Jassman (Calgary, Alta.) * David Eng (Montreal, Que.) * Mickael Poulin (Quebec, Que.) Nikola Goncin (Regina, Sask.) Robert “Bo” Hedges (Wonowon, B.C.) * Tyler Miller (Kitchener, Ont.) * Head Coach: Jerry Tonello (Toronto, Ont.) |
Alarissa Haak (Edmonton, Alta.) Amanda Yan (Vancouver, B.C.) Cindy Ouellet (Quebec, Que.) * Elaine Allard (St. Eustache, Que.) * Elisha Williams (Prince George, B.C.) *Katie Harnock (Elmira, Ont.) * Janet McLachlan (Vancouver, B.C.) * Maude Jacques (Ste-Catherine, Que.) * Tamara Steeves (Mississauga, Ont.) *
Head Coach: Bill Johnson (Winnipeg, Man.) |
01.08.13 WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
MWSA's recreational wheelchair basketball program takes place at the Duckworth Centre, University of Winnipeg. Come out for an evening of great fun, exercise and camaraderie! Sport wheelchairs are available at the University. Upcoming dates/times:
Tuesday January 15, 2013 - 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Tuesday January 22, 2013 - 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Tuesday January 29, 2013 - 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Every Tuesday evening in February and March 2013 - 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
01.02.13 Good luck Aaron Moseley-Williams!
Manitoban Aaron Moseley-Williams, one of Canada`s top male wheelchair basketball players is currently in Las Vegas, Nevada attending the Team Canada 2013 Selection Camp. MWSA wishes Aaron all the best as he pursues his dream of being named on Team Canada`s national team.
01.02.13 Joey Johnson - Manitoba`s 100 Most Fascinating
The Winnipeg Free Press and Ace Burpee have chosen Joey Johnson as one of Manitoba`s most fascinating people.
`5: Joey Johnson: One of our most under-celebrated athletes of all-time. Joey plays wheelchair basketball. Very well. He is, thanks to another gold this past summer in London, a four-time Paralympics medal winner over . One silver, Three gold. Not bad.`
Way to go Joey!!!
For a complete list, go to www.winnipegfreepress.com.
12.27.12 Mini-Paralympian Camp 2013
Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association has confirmed a series of Mini-Paralympian Camps. Dates: February 2, March 2, April 6, and May 4, 2013. Youth For Christ Centre located at 33 King Street. 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm. Geared towards children 12 years and under. Details will be posted in January 2013 under our "Events" page. Contact the office at 204-925-5790 for more information.
11.29.12 Congratulations Bill Funk!
MWSA would like to congratulate BILL FUNK for being named Canadian Wheelchair Sport Association’s 2012 VOLUNTEER of the YEAR!
Bill dedicates many hours every year to the wheelchair rugby program in several capacities, such as, equipment manager, coach, speaker at outreach programs, promoter of wheelchair rugby. Bill is an invaluable asset to wheelchair sports and wheelchair rugby and Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association is very proud of his accomplishments as a volunteer.
11.22.12 2013 MWSA JAMBOREE
MWSA will be hosting its 2013 Multi-Sport Jamboree on Saturday January 19 at the Youth for Christ Center located at 333 King Street from 9:30AM to 4:00PM. The Day will include a variety of Demos, talks and activities hosted by Manitoba's Paralympians in Wheelchair Basketball, Rugby and Tennis. For more info please don't hesitate to contact the MWSA office by email: mwsa@sportmanitoba or call 204 925 5789. Registration deadline January 16, 2013.
11.15.12 Available Grants
Challenged Athletes has grants available for disabled individuals. For information, go to www.challengedathletes.org. MWSA is able to assist by offering a letter of support to the individual applying for the grant.
Winnipeg Goldeyes Foundation has grants available for equipment (wheelchair). Application will be available November 19-December 14, 2012 at www.goldeyes.com/community.
11.13.12 CONGRATULATIONS!
Congratulations to the Winnipeg Wheelchair Rugby Team for taking 1st place at the URO Crash Test Wheelchair Rugby Tournament in Saskatoon November 10-11, 2012! Way to go!
11.12.12 Rick Hansen Grant
The Rick Hansen Foundation has a number of grants available including an Individual Grant. For more information, visit:
http://www.rickhansen.com/language/en-CA/What-We-Do/Grants/Individual-Grants.aspx.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the MWSA office.
11.07.12 Congratulations To Our Paralympians!
The City of Winnipeg recently honored our Paralympians that competed at the London 2012 Games. Congratulations to Wheelchair Basketball coach Bill Johnson (back row 4th from the right), Wheelchair Basketball gold medallist Joey Johnson (back row 2nd from the right), Wheelchair Rugby silver medallist Jared Funk and Parlympic track athlete Colin Mathieson (front row, left to right)
11.06.12 Wheelchair Rugby
GOOD LUCK to the Winnipeg Wheelchair Rugby Club this weekend in Saskatoon! The 8 member team will be competing at the URO Medical Crash Test Wheelchair Rugby Tournament November 10 and 11, 2012 in Saskatoon.
10.23.12 Wheelchair Tennis
Manitoba Wheelchair Sport and Tennis Manitoba have joined together to host a Wheelchair Tennis development program. The drop in program will be held every Wednesday evening at Taylor Tennis located at 1500 Taylor Ave. The program starts October 17 and runs from 9pm - 1030pm. A certified coach and all equipment necessary will be provided at a fee of $10 per session. This program is aimed at participants with a beginner to intermediate skill level. For more information please don't hesitate to contact Ryan Van Berkel at the MWSA office by email mwsa.proco@sportmanitoba.ca or by phone at 204 925 5789. If you would like to drop in, please RSVP with Rob Langan at Tennis Manitoba by email at rob@tennismanitoba.com
10.08.12 Time to renew your membership
It is that time of year again - membership renewal!
For only $5.00, you can participate in our wheelchair basketball and rugby drop-in programs, receive monthly e-newsletters, and much more. Visit our Membership page to print the form and for details to submit payment.
10.02.12 MWSA Welcomes New Staff
MWSA welcomes two new staff members. Angela Lloyd as our Interim Executive Director and Ryan Van Berkel as our Program Coordinator.
Angela has 10 years of experience as a volunteer on Triathlon Manitoba’s Board and has been President for the last 3 years. She has chaired a number of committees including Program/Club Development, Marketing, and Policies & Procedures and understands the connections with Sport Manitoba. Angela can be reached at (204) 925-5790 or mwsa@sportmanitoba.ca.
Ryan comes to MWSA with 3 years of experience as the Program Coordinator for Sail Manitoba. He has also recently accepted a half time position as Executive Director of the Archery Manitoba. Ryan has a solid understanding of office management, administrative practices and event coordinating. Ryan can be reached at (204) 925-5790 or mwsa.proco@sportmanitoba.ca.
Angela and Ryan hours in the office will be posted shortly as they will be working part-time.
Both of these individuals have an incredible passion for sport and their experience will be a huge asset to MWSA. Please take a moment and welcome them to our community!
Terry Pratt
President
MWSA
10.02.12 Meet Manitoba's Paralympians
Meet Manitoba's Paralympians
The Canadian Sport Centre Manitoba (CSCM) invites the public to meet Manitoba Paralympians Joey Johnson, Jared Funk, Rhea Schmidt, and Colin Mathieson at Polo Park Shopping Centre on Saturday, October 6.
The athletes will greet fans and sign autographs in the mall’s Centre Court from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Joey Johnson won a gold medal with Canada’s men’s wheelchair basketball team at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England. Joey is a five-time Paralympian, previously winning gold at the 2000 Sydney Paralympics and 2004 Athens Paralympics, and silver at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics. Born in Winnipeg, he currently resides in Lorette, Manitoba.
Jared Funk was a silver medalist with Canada’s men’s wheelchair rugby team at the 2012 London Paralympics. Born in Niverville, Jared previously won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, and silver at the 2004 Athens Paralympics.
Rhea Schmidt placed 8th in the women’s 100m freestyle at the 2012 London Paralympics. The Winnipeg- born swimmer previously came in 5th place in 100m backstroke and 6th in 100m freestyle at the 2004 Paralympics in Athens.
Colin Mathieson came in 5th in the men’s 4x400 meter relay at the 2012 Paralympics Games. Born in Winnipeg, Colin has now represented Canada at four Paralympic Games, including a bronze medal win at the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games.
Established in 1997, CSCM is committed to supporting Manitoba’s high performance athletes and coaches. For more information, please visit www.cscm.ca.
For more information, contact:
Randy Anderson General Manager Canadian Sport Centre Manitoba (204) 474-7148 randy@cscm.ca
08.29.12 London 2012 Paralympic Opening ceremonies today!
We are now just three hours away from Opening Ceremonies (3:30 EST)! You can catch the ceremonies live at ctvparalympics.ca or on RDS, or later tonight on TSN2 at 9pm EST.
Be sure to tune in and support your country!
08.27.12 MWSA's Joey Johnson goes for gold!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfG9lrkfrxo
08.27.12 MWSA wishes good luck to three Manitobans in London.
Joey Johnson, Jared Funk, and Bill Johnson will be representing team Canada at the London Paralympics from August 29th to September 9th.
Joey will be making his 5th Paralympic appearance as a wheelchair basketball athlete, while Jared matches the 5th Paralympic feat as an athlete in wheelchair rugby.
London will be Bill's 3rd Paralympics, and first as head coach of the Women's Wheelchair Basketball team.
Best of luck to all of team Canada, and especially Manitoba's representatives!
07.12.12 TEAM CANADA WOMEN’S WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL MEDIA GAME JULY 24T 2012
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN TEAM CANADA WOMEN’S WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL MEDIA GAME JULY 24th
(Winnipeg, MB) Members of the press looking for a unique sporting experience, and fun challenge are invited to join the Canadian Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team, Canadian Sport Centre Manitoba, Member of Parliament Lawrence Toet (Elmwood Transcona), and other local dignitaries, to participate in a wheelchair basketball media game to be held at the University of Manitoba on July 24th at 1:45pm CDT.
In addition to the on court thrills, participants will gain a new appreciation for the elite skill and athleticism that will be on display at the London 2012 Paralympic Summer Games (Aug. 29 to Sept. 9, 2012). Using a specially designed wheelchair basketball chair, participants will be paired with members of the #3 ranked Canadian Women’s Team, and get the opportunity to try their hand at the most popular, and competitive sport enjoyed by athletes, with and without a disability, around the world.
Interested parties are asked to RSVP by July 20th, 2012.
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Canada’s top female wheelchair basketball athletes teaching the elite skill and athleticism that has enabled Canada to win 3 gold (1992, 1996, 2000) and 1 bronze (2004) medal at Paralympic Games.
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Who:
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Canadian Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball Team, Canadian Sport Centre Manitoba, Member of Parliament Lawrence Toet (Elmwood Transcona), and other local dignitaries. |
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What: |
Media invited to participate in a media demo game with Team Canada.
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When: |
Tuesday July 24, 2012 from 1:45-2:30pm (CDT) Athletes/coaches available for on court interviews from 2:30-3pm (CDT) – additional interviews can be scheduled.
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Where: |
University of Manitoba (West Court Gym in the Investors Group Athletic Centre – 75 Sidney Smith Street). |
The media game presents Team Canada with a fun occasion to embrace the local community that they have called home during the crucial final stages of their Paralympic preparations, and give thanks to the various supporters that have backed them in their pursuit of Paralympic Gold. For the first time in program history, the #3 ranked Canadian Women’s Team is fully centralized at the University of Manitoba from June to August as they make final preparations for London 2012.
Team Canada will depart August 14th for a final tune-up tournament in the Netherlands August 16-19, before moving into the London Paralympic Village.
Paralympic competition starts for them August 31st against the Netherlands at 7:00pm BST.
For more information, visit www.wheelchairbasketball.ca
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About Team Canada:
The Senior Women’s National Team is amongst the most successful and dominant teams in Canadian amateur sport history. The team captured three consecutive Paralympic gold medals in 1992, 1996, and 2000, and bronze in 2004. They have also reached the podium at six consecutive World Championships, winning gold in 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006, and bronze in 2010. The team currently sits third in the women’s world rankings.
About Canadian Sport Centre Manitoba
Established in 1997, CSCM is committed to supporting Canada and Manitoba’s high performance athletes and coaches. For more information, please visit www.cscm.ca, or contact the Centre at (204)474-7148.
About Wheelchair Basketball Canada
Wheelchair Basketball Canada is the national sports governing body responsible for the organization of wheelchair basketball in Canada. It is a non-profit, charitable organization that is the Canadian member to the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF).
Wheelchair basketball is a fast-paced, hard-hitting, competitive sport that has emerged as one of the most competitive and athletic sports played at the Paralympic Games. Our senior national teams are held in high esteem around the world for the elite skill and control that placed them on the podium with a combined five gold and one silver medal in the last five Paralympic Games.
For more information, or to schedule an interview contact:
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Courtney Pollock, Coordinator Communications & Media Relations Wheelchair Basketball Canada T: 613-260-1296 ext. 200 C: 613-291-6721 |
Jody Kingsbury, Manager Communications & Media Relations Wheelchair Basketball Canada T: 613-260-1296 ext. 204 jkingsbury@wheelchairbasketball.ca
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05.31.12 Mini Paralympians Camp!
Mwsa will be hosting a week long camp from August 13-17, 2012. Kids will have the chance to try out numerous paralympic sports including, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair basketball, rowing, sailing, and sitting volleyball.
Transportation between sport Manitoba and the sport venues will be provided to the campers and includes a t-shirt, pizza lunch on the last day, and all activities throughout the 5 day camp. The cost of registration is $150.
for more information, or to register, please contact us at mwsa@sportmanitoba.ca or by phone at 204-925-5790.
05.30.12 Welcome to the Office Jeff Watson!
We welcome to the office Jeff Watson with his new role over the summer in the MWSA office. He will be using the email address of mwsa.proco@sportmanitoba.ca so fire away any questions you have and he will do his best. Good luck to Jeff and enjoy the summer!
05.29.12 MWSA says goodbye to Program Coordinator Sally Kaznica
MWSA would like to wish Sally Kaznica, Program Coordinator all of the best as she leaves the association to pursue other endeavors. In Sally's short time with the association she has been an integral part of developing programs and ensuring growth and development. We would like to thank her for her hard work and wish her all of the best in the future. Sally's final day at MWSA will be May 31, 2012
Please be advised if you have questions regarding programing after May 31st you can direct them to mwsa.proco@sportmanitoba.ca
05.24.12 'Have A Go' Schedule at the Health Science Center
Here are some up coming dates to keep in your diary for our 'Have A Go' sessions in the Joe Doupe gym at the Health Science Center...
May 30th, June 13th,, June 27th, Jully 11th, July 25th, August 8th and August 22nd.
Look forward to seeing you there!
05.24.12 MWSA's Joey Johnson hopes to capture third gold medal at the 2012 London Paralympic Games
05.15.12 Adult Wheelchair Tennis Taster Session This Sunday
It looks like the nice weather is finally here and that means that the rugby and basketball seasons are over. You may be asking yourself "What do I do now?". It just so happens that MWSA has forged a partnership with Norwood Community Center and an adult Wheelchair Tennis program will start by running a taster session this Sunday from 9.30 am till 11.00 am. The program will be led by Sam Unrau, an athlete that has represented Manitoba in the most recent Western Canada Summer Games and he has a wealth of experience, so feel free to ask him any questions. Bring your chair, a racquet if you have one and look out for Sam to sign up and get swinging! See you Sunday.
05.09.12 Why get involved with MWSA
05.03.12 Three Manitobans Heading to London's Paralympics
Joey Johnson, Jared Funk and Bill Johnson are in their preparation phases for the Paralympics this summer in London, England. Joey is heading into an incredible fifth Paralympics as an athlete for Wheelchair Basketball, Jared is also going for a remarkable fifth appearance as an athlete in Wheelchair Rugby and Bill is also participating in his third games and this time being the Head Coach for the Women's Wheelchair Basketball team. We are quite lucky to have three world class performers coming from our humble province of Manitoba and we will keep you updated on the movements, hopes and expectations for the games that are only 118 days away! Good luck to the guys for their final preparations.
05.03.12 Check out "The Pitbull' from one of the Canadian Paralympic Promotional Videos
http://paralympic.ca/en/Super-Athletes/The-Pit-Bull.html
05.02.12 Team Canada Women's Wheelchair Basketball to Centralize in Winnipeg
Preparation for the 2012 Paralympic Games in London will see 14 of Canada's top female wheelchair Basketball players call Winnipeg home leading into the Paralympic Games Under the direction of head coach Bill Johnson the athletes will mental and physically prepare for what they are hoping is a podium finish at the 2012 Paralympic games.
05.01.12 Wheelchair Basketball Coach Named 2012 Mb Lotteries Coach of The Year
MWSA is thrilled to announce that on April 30, 2012 Bill Johnson, MWSA wheelchair Basketball coach was the recipient of the 2012 Manitoba Lotteries Male Coach of the Year. This award comes just two weeks after Bill was recognized as the 2012 Peter Williamson Coach of the Year (high Performance) at the 2012 Coaching Manitoba Excellence Awards.
MWSA would like to not only congratulate Bill on this prestigious award but thank him for his years of service and dedication to the sport of Wheelchair Basketball at the community, provincial and national levels.
We would also like to wish Bill good luck as he leads the Canadian Women's Wheelchair Basketball team into the 2012 London Paralympic Games.
To View Bills profile CLICK HERE
04.29.12 Team Manitoba Wheelchair Rugby claim Bronze in B Division
Congratulations to our Rugby team who have claimed the bronze medal in the B Division at the Canadian Wheelchair Rugby Nationals in Montreal this weekend. The team started out with a comfortable 48-21 win against New Brunswick, followed up with good game but a lose against Alberta. They took the Bronze medal this afternoon and that puts a successful end to there season. The spring and summer will see the team pushing to find new recruits for next season and hone their skills ready to defend their title. Great job guys!
If you would like to watch their games online please follow the following link;
http://sports.tvgo.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=985%3Adefi-sportif-2011&catid=52%3Achaines&Itemid=159
04.25.12 MWSA Wheelchair Basketball Coach nominated for Manitoba Lotteries Male Coach of the Year
MWSA is proud to announce that wheelchair basketball coach Bill Johnson has been nominated as a 2012 Manitoba Lotteries Male Coach of the Year. Bill who is one of three finalists for the award will attend the 2012 Annual Night of Champions on April 30, 2012. MWSA would like to congratulate Bill on his accomplishments as both a provincial and national coach and wish him all the best of luck with his nomination.
04.24.12 Notice of AGM
MWSA will be holding the Associations Annual General Meeting on Wednesday June 13, 2012 for more information click here
To view the agenda for the AGM click here
04.16.12 MWSA Wheelchair Basketball coach Bill Johnson Winner of the 2012 Peter Williamson Memorial Award
The Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association would like to congratulate long time volunteer, athlete, board member and coach Bill Johnson as he was honored on Sunday at the Coaching Manitoba Excellence Awards for his hard work and dedication in coaching at the high performance/International level of competition. Bill was the recipient of the 2012 Peter Williamson Memorial Award. This was Bills second nomination in this category and third nomination at the event. Click here for more info
04.11.12 Starting this Sunday the 15th of April...
Bringing some exciting news for all Rugby and Basketball players, coaches, families or if you just want to have some fun and exercise... Starting this Sunday, the 15th of April, MWSA is hosting a recreational '3 on 3' league for Wheelchair Basketball from 11am-12.30pm at the Joe Doupe gym in the Brodie Centre at the Health Science facility. Wheelchair Rugby will the take over from 12.30pm-2pm so drop in at your convenience and play some fun filled sports and learn about our amazing sports. The recreation sessions run every Sunday ending on the 13th of May so don't miss out on this great opportunity. For more information please contact mwsa.proco@sportmanitoba.ca.
04.10.12 CMEA Finalists Announced
03.30.12 Have A Go SHILO: RESCHEDULED
03.28.12 Manitoba Wheelchair Basketball Athlete Joey Johnson leaving RSV Lahn-Dill after 9 seasons
Click Here to read the article
03.05.12 MURDERBALL CLASSIC CANCELLED
Unfortunately the tournament has been cancelled. Information will be available shortly.
01.31.12 Coming To Courts Near You...Wheelchair Tennis!
MWSA is currently partnering with Tennis Manitoba to set up and develop an opportunity for the community to play Wheelchair Tennis. All you need to play wheelchair tennis is a friend, a racquet a few balls and head down to you local court, weather permitting of course! The beauty of wheelchair tennis is that you can play with your able bodied friends or family as well as other wheelchair tennis players. Under the rules of tennis wheelchair players are permitted two bounces and the able bodied players one bounce and when simply practicing you can play to your own rules to suit the standard of the players.
There will be information to come soon as to where and when you can come play this great sport.
01.31.12 Next Have-A-Go Date
February 8th see's our next 'Have-A-Go' day from 2-4 pm at the Joe Doupe Center in the basement of the University of Manitoba's Bannatyne Campus downtown. It is a safe place to come and try out our basketball and rugby chairs and see how easy it is to move around and be active. There is usually and athlete or two to come and talk to and ask any questions you may have about sports in wheelchairs or even life in a chair.There is no pressure to do anything, but if you are at all curious come and join us and meet other people adjusting to life in a wheelchair. See you on the 8th!
01.30.12 'Have A Go' Coming To SHILO
Tuesday the 21st of February see's our first Bridging the Gap, Have A Go programme out at CF Shilo. The programme runs from 1.30-4.30pm and participants will have the opportunity to play basketball, rugby and tennis. Come and try out the chairs, play some games and spread the word about wheelchair sports. Bring a yourself, bring a friend, bring your family and let's make it a great event. See you on the 21st!
01.26.12 First Jamboree of 2012 a Success!
Sunday the 22nd of January saw a great time had by all in attendance. Wheelchair Tennis, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Rugby were on offer for all to try out and experience first hand. Thank you to everyone involved in making the day what it was and a special thank you to the staff at the Youth For Christ Center. An amazing facility which we hope to utilise in the future. More info and pictures to follow shortly.
01.18.12 Canada'a Senior Women's Wheelchair Basketball Heading to Winnipeg
Great news for Manitoba...the Canadian Senior Women's Basketball Team, coached by Winnipeg's own Bill Johnson, announced Tuesday it will centralize in Winnipeg this spring and released its preliminary roster of 14 players.
The women's team, will be cut to 12 for the London games, will be based in Winnipeg beginning on June 4th.
The 12 senior men's wheelchair basketball team's roster was also announced and it includes brother of Bill, Joey Johnson.The senior men's team is the defending Paralympic silver medalists and is looking for it's third gold medal and forth consecutive podium finish in London.
The senior women's team last medalled at the Paralympics in 2004 where it took home the bronze, a fourth concutive Paralympic podium finish which included an unprecedented three consecutive gold medal finishes in 1992,1996 and 2000.
We look forward to hosting the women's team and wish them a successful preparation for the 2012 games.
01.16.12 Joey Johnson heading for London 2012 Paralympics
MWSA would like to congratulate Joey Johnson on making the final selection to Wheelchair Basketball Canada's Senior Men's squad for the London 2012 Paralympics, making it an incredible fifth visit to the games.
Having already had a dominating domestic, international and Paralympic career with a gold medal from the Sydney games, a gold medal from the Athens games and a silver medal from the Beijing games, Joey is looking to make it a hat trick of gold medals in London to top off his career.
We wish Joey and the rest of his Team Canada teammates, the best of luck in their preparation for the games and the tournament itself, you have Manitoba behind you, good luck!
01.16.12 Save the Date Jan 22nd MWSA Jamboree
The 22nd of January see's the first Jamboree of 2012 to be held at the Youth for Christ Centre in Winnipeg, MB. The event opens with registration at 930 am and runs throughout the day till 3 pm and you can come try out our three sports of wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball. Come and talk to some of our athletes and learn about them, the sport they love and be coached by some of the top players in the country.
There is a $10 dollar registration fee and participants with receive insurance coverage, lunch with drinks and also a t-shirt to remember the day. Feel free to drop in whenever you get a chance and don't miss out on an action packed, fun filled day. See you on the 22nd!
12.06.11 Seasons Greetings from the new Program Coordinator!
Season`s greetings indeed on this chilly December morning! I`d like to take a moment to introduce myself to our membership and to let you know a little about me and my position.
My name is Sally Kaznica and originally I am from Felixstowe, England. I came to Winnipeg back in 1999 on a Sport and Academic scholarship at the University of Winnipeg and spent the following five years playing basketball for the Wesmen and getting my B.A. in Kinesiology and Psychology When my career ended here I played professionally in Europe for the next five years and after retiring from the sport I moved back to Winnipeg, got married and finally became a permanent resident.
My position at MWSA is to run, plan and organise the `Bridging the Gap` program along side the existing MWSA programs. I am very passionate about sports and leading an active life and can`t wait to be involved in our community. I have already met with some very inspirational people and look forward to connecting with as many of the membership that I can.
I would also like to thank MWSA for this great opportunity and if anyone has any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me, I look forward to meeting you in person.
Merry Christmas!
12.06.11 Team TOBA Rugby are heading to Edmonton this weekend
Our Team Toba Rugby guy`s are making their way over to Edmonton this weekend to play in the `Capital City Showdown`at Amiskwaciy Academy from the 9th to the 11th of December. Their first game is on Friday at 6.30 pm against Team Saskatchewan followed by a tough schedule on Saturday starting at 11 am with back to back games against the host team Edmonton Steel Wheels and then Calgary Inferno. Sunday`s action see`s the top four teams battling it out early with the first game at 9.30 am followed by the last game at 10.30 am.
Best of luck to the guys and we will have updates for you over the weekend and early next week.
10.19.11 MWSA HAVE- A-GO DAYS A GREAT PLACE TO TRY A NEW SPORT!
WHAT IS A HAVE-A-GO DAY?
Our "Have a Go" days offer a variety of different sports for participants to sample in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Current wheelchair athletes demonstrate sports and share their stories of getting involved and being physically active. The focus of the program is to introduce and support continued involvement of individuals with physical disabilities in wheelchair sports and recreational opportunities, promoting an active, healthy lifestyle and improved quality of life.
Our Program are an opportunity for people to try out different sports at a recreational level Each week, a sport is selected based on the participants in attendance.
Have-A-Go days are held at the Joe Dupe Centre 727 McDermot Ave.
Upcoming Have-A-Go days
- October 19, 2011 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
- November 2, 2011 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
- November 16, 2011 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
- November 30, 2011 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM
09.21.11 2011 Wheelchair Rugby Schedule
The 2011 Wheelchair Rugby practice schedule has been announced. All practices will be at the University of Winnipeg and will take place between 9:30 PM and 11:00 PM.
For more information please call 925-5790
05.20.11 MWSA Notice of AGM
Notice of Annual General Meeting
The Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association will hold its Annual General Meeting on June 22, 2011 at 5:00 PM. the meeting will be held at the Sport For Life Centre 145 Pacific Avenue. Please RSVP your attendance to the meeting through email to mwsa@spotmanitoba.ca
For nomination procedures and forms please CLICK HERE
02.14.11 Heartbreaker for Manitoba
The Manitoba squad fought for a medal today in Halifax against the team from Saskatchewan. Facing off for the bronze medal at 5:00pm, the 2 teams came out in an even fight right to the end where Manitoba's neighbour squeeked through with a 2 point win, 58-56. It has been a tough week for the team from the Keystone Province as their teammate and key player to the team, Kyle Bunskoek has been laying in a hospital in Halifax since Saturday.
Regardless of the finish today, we are proud of each and every team member who has put in their blood, sweat and tears over the past four years to compete at the 2011 Canada Games.
WELL DONE TEAM MANITOBA!!
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Team Manitoba is in the 3rd quarter of a fight with Quebec in the 2nd semi final at the 2011 Canada Games in Halifax. Finishing 2nd in Pool A, the tough crossover presented a big challenge to the team as they are continuing without one of their key athletes, Kyle Bunskoek. Bunskoek was taken to a Halifax hospital's ICU prior to the wheelchair basketball event starting, but has since been moved out of ICU and continues to send well wishes to his team.
The winner of this second semi final will go on to to meet Ontario for gold who defeated Saskatchewan earlier in the day. For more information about the games, please visit: CANADA GAMES RESULTS
For the latest news regarding Kyle Bunskoek, please visit: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/ for a video feed.
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Manitoba finished their Round Robin against a tough Ontario team. The bison squad wrapped up the preliminaries with a 1 and 2 record after being defeated 66-42 this afternoon. The team will push on in the action tomorrow; it has been a tough trip with the best wishes for their teammate, Kyle Bunskoek spending the past 4 days in a Halifax hospital. Our thoughts are with the team and Kyle and we will keep on cheering!!!
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Halifax - Team Manitoba bounced back this afternoon with a commanding win over Nova Scotia 66-37. At the time of this report, the box score had yet to be released; please check the CANADA GAMES RESULTS page for more information later today. Manitoba suits up in their last round robin game of Pool A against a seasoned Ontario team. A win could put our team in contention for a medal. Go Manitoba go!!
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Manitoba basketball player moved out of ICU
Canada Games athlete Kyle Bunskoek (SPORT MANITOBA)
HALIFAX - Team Manitoba says a wheelchair basketball player who became seriously ill at the Canada Winter Games has been moved out of intensive care at a Halifax hospital.
Kyle Bunskoek, 16, of Stonewall was rushed to hospital on Saturday. The nature of the injury hasn't been disclosed but the chief medical officer for the Games said Sunday it is not related to sports and is non-contagious.
Officials initially declined to identify the athlete and the sport he plays, but Team Manitoba said Monday night it now has the permission ofBunskoek's father. Wally Bunskoek said in a release that he is overwhelmed and grateful to the doctors and nurses at the Halifax Infirmary, the Halifax Canada Games Host Society and Team Manitoba for the care his son has received.
"He's been treated like family by people he doesn't know."
After a rescheduling of games to accommodate the needs of the Manitoba wheelchair basketball team, the team played two games in the absence of Bunskoek on Monday, losing 67-50 to P.E.I. before defeating Nova Scotia 66-37.
Bunskoek, who has been competing in wheelchair basketball for three years, is one of four players in the 4.5 class on Team Manitoba. That means he is essentially able-bodied in terms of pushing his wheelchair, catching and throwing.Bunskoek reportedly has a minimal case of cerebral palsy.
The greater the disability, the lower a player’s number. The range is from 0.5 to 4.5.
Each wheelchair basketball team is allowed five players on the court at a time. Combined, their class numbers can’t be more than 15. For example, if there are three 4.5 players on court, the two remaining players can’t total more than 1.5.
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Tough 3rd Quarter for Manitoba in Opening Game
The Manitoba squad took to the court this morning in Halifax to meet Prince Edward Island in the their first game of the 2011 Canada Games. Unfortunately, what appeared to be a tough transition in the 3rd quarter, the Bisons came up short overall having to accept a 67-50 defeat at the hands of PEI. Aaron Moseley-Williams and Jeffrey Watson led the way for Manitoba with 27 and 16 points respectively.
Manitoba now has to dig in and come back fighting as they take on Nova Scotia at 3:00pm today.
For full results, please visit: RESULTS
02.07.11 MWSA Represented at 2011 Canada Games
As Halifax gets ready to showcase their city during the 2011 Canada Games that kick off on February 11th, the Manitoba Wheelchair Basketball team gets ready to showcase their talent and represent Manitoba at the games.
With their coach Mandy Johnson at the helm, the team has been hard at work for the past year preparing to take on the country’s top talents in the sport. Lead by veteran and national team hopeful Aaron Moseley-Williams, this Manitoba Wheelchair Basketball Squad brings enough talent to aim for a medal at the games. Moseley-Williams is joined by teammates Josh Paul, Kyle Bunskoek, Chauntelle Horel, Evan Williams, Shawn Watson, Jeff Watson and late pick up, former University of Winnipeg Wesmen baller, Jess Stromberg. To assist with coaching dutites, Terry Pratt has been added to the roster and Kim Park will manage the team for the 10 days in Halifax.
You can catch the action through the Wheelchair Basketball Canada feed as they have announced their webcast schedule beginning on Sunday, February 13th. For a complete listing, please visit their website: http://wheelchairbasketball.ca/en/content.aspx?id=3399
For further information about the 2011 Halifax Canada Games, please visit: www.2011canadagames.ca.
Manitoba Wheelchair Sports Association would like to wish their team the best of luck for the games and will be cheering them on each and every minute. Good Luck!
01.17.11 Winnipeg's Joey Johnson In the News...
Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION
On The Home Front
Joey Johnson will suit up for Canada again at the Parapan American Games in Mexico. (ANDY WONG / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS ARCHIVES)
-- Team Canada wheelchair basketball team veteran Joey Johnson of Lorette has once again been selected to represent Canada at the 2011 Parapan American Games Nov. 12-20, in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Of the 12 selected, Johnson is among 10 who were members of the team that won a silver medal at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing.
The Parapan American Games double as Canada's opportunity to qualify for the 2012 London Paralympics, where the team will be shooting for a fourth consecutive podium finish.
"Our quest for another gold-medal finish begins anew," said Team Canada head coach Jerry Tonello in a release. The team was selected following completion of a recent week-long camp in Toronto.
Canada won back-to-back Paralympic gold medals in 2000 and 2004, and have reached the podium at five of the last six consecutive World Championships dating back to 1990.