The future of a wheelchair basketball team is bright after it received a cash boost from two local companies.  The Phoenix Wheelchair Club was formed just a year ago and members are already competing in two divisions of the national league.

 

It was formed with the help of Peterborough City Council's sports development team, is fully constituted and is now virtually self-managed.  More than 30 people from all age groups have attended sessions and 18 regularly participate in training sessions at Stanground College each Wednesday.

 

The club has already won two out of its first three games in division three of a national league, despite only two players having previous competitive experience.  Opportunities for all other members to develop their skills will come in December when division four becomes operative.

 

Now additional cash sponsorship from two local firms means that the club can invest in a new team strip and other essential equipment.

 

"The players are thrilled to have secured sponsorship from a couple of local companies, Perkins Engines and Marshall Toyota, in addition to initial support from the City Council small grants scheme," said city council sports development officer Matt Gill.

 

"It has given a great boost to the players to have a team strip and to have funds to cover venue hire, travel costs and equipment purchases.  One of the great benefits of wheelchair basketball is that it permits people with various levels of mobility to compete on equal terms by using wheelchairs."

 

Media Contact: Mike Lennox, Media Relations Manager on (01733) 452304.

 

You are invited to send a photographer and/or a reporter to cover the presentation of sponsorship cheques to the Peterborough Wheelchair Basketball Club at Stanground College sports hall on Wednesday 9 November at 6.30pm.