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- calendar_today November 8, 2026
Inclusive Tournaments Highlight Disability Sports in Chicago
The Chicago Park District is organizing consecutive wheelchair basketball tournaments, bringing together elite athletes from Illinois to compete for the Midwest championship. These events underscore the importance of inclusive athletics and the impact of adaptive sports on participants' lives.
Youth and Adult Basketball Tournaments Scheduled
The series begins with the youth wheelchair basketball tournament, held on November 7 and 8, followed by the adult tournament on November 14 and 15. Both competitions will take place at the Broadway Armory, located at 5917 North Broadway in Chicago, with games starting at 9 a.m.
Empowering Through Sport: Voices from the Community
Larry Labiak, disability policy officer for the Chicago Park District, emphasized the life-changing influence of these tournaments. "I've been involved for almost 50 years, and I keep coming back because you see the changes in children's lives," Labiak said. "These are competitive games the kids are playing to win. It teaches the same life lessons that we all need to learn."
Labiak noted that while only a couple thousand youngsters participate in wheelchair basketball across the United States, the sport is growing. Raising awareness and providing opportunity are among the main goals for organizers.
Returning Athletes and Building Confidence
Former athlete and Adaptive Sport Program Coordinator Daniel Ferreira shared his perspective as both a competitor and a coach. "I was actually one of the first athletes to compete in the junior division when it started. The first nationals were in Crystal Lake, Illinois. It's a great opportunity for me to give back, and also my son plays in our program as well," Ferreira said.
He highlighted the empowerment that comes from seeing young athletes build confidence and find a sense of belonging. "Most kids with disabilities they're the minority in every aspect, but when they come to the court, here where the majority lead. So that's an empowering feeling," Ferreira added.
Removing Barriers and Promoting Disability Inclusion
Labiak emphasized that the Chicago Park District works to eliminate transportation and financial barriers for participants. "Let us worry about [the logistics], just get your kid out there. Let him play for 20 years, 20 more as an adult and have a great life," he said.
By providing the necessary equipment and support, the tournaments aim to open doors for both youth and adults to experience the discipline, teamwork, and leadership lessons inherent in sports.
Looking Ahead
Through these wheelchair basketball tournaments, the Chicago Park District continues to advocate for adaptive sports, offering opportunities for athletes to grow, compete, and empower themselves both on and off the court.
Source: wgntv.com.
