Going for Gold: Understanding Occupational Engagement in Elite-Level Wheelchair Basketball Athletes

This article explores the meaning given to participating in elite-level wheelchair basketball by athletes with lower extremity physical disabilities. Using qualitative methods this study explored the personal experiences and meanings ascribed to this occupation by ten men and six women from two National Teams. Expressed throughout the interviews were the numerous personal and financial sacrifices, the challenge and determination to better themselves, the importance of team mates, and the Program of Wheelchair Basketball. An esprit de corps was fostered through close team bonds and unconditional acceptance while striving to achieve the common goals of winning and attaining recognition of wheelchair basketball as an elite sport and themselves as athletes. Three major themes arose; 1) "The Love of the Game", with sub-themes, Going for the Gold, Overcoming Disability, and Commitment & Challenge, 2) "Esprit de Corps", with sub-themes, Team as a Second Family and Fun & Friendship, and 3) "Raising the Bar", with sub-themes, Recognition of the Sport and Recognition as an Athlete. It was apparent that these athletes loved the game and were challenged to go for the gold medal. Understanding the experiences of these individuals provides evidence of the importance of sport as a form of occupational engagement in the lives of individuals who experience disability.