COLORADO SPRINGS, CO. – The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) is proud to announce the formal adoption of a Military Division within its organization, following a unanimous vote by the NWBA Board of Directors. This decision solidifies the NWBA’s commitment to serving the adaptive sports community and honoring the contributions of current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
The new Military Division, which has been in development for over two years, aims to provide an inclusive platform for military personnel and veterans to engage in the sport of wheelchair basketball. This initiative reinforces the NWBA’s mission to transform lives through adaptive sports and further expand access to its programs.
Wheelchair basketball originated in 1946, pioneered by World War II veterans recovering in VA hospitals and the Corona Naval Station. By 1948, Tim Nugent established the NWBA and launched the first National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, marking the sport’s official debut. Rooted in the determination of veterans, wheelchair basketball grew to become a leading sport for individuals with disabilities.
“This initiative is long overdue. Veterans with TBI and PTSD have also borne the wounds of war, and this provides them with a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with their brothers and sisters on a more peaceful and supportive playing field,” said Lee Montgomery, NWBA Hall of Famer and Military Division Commissioner.
“As a paralyzed veteran and previous NWBA Board member, I am proud to see us return to our roots, paying tribute to the courageous men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have given so much in service to our country and to the foundation of our sport,” said Mark Shepherd, a long-standing member in the NWBA community and served on the Board of Directors.
The Military Division will offer:
As part of these efforts, the NWBA will continue to host its third annual Military Division National Championship from April 25-27 at Turnstone.
With this adoption, the NWBA continues to honor its legacy of inclusivity and leadership in adaptive sports. The Military Division is designed not only to promote physical health but also to support mental well-being and social connection among veterans and active-duty service members.
The NWBA invites stakeholders, sponsors, and community members to support this exciting new division and its efforts to enhance the lives of military athletes….