First published in the Nov. 19 print issue of the Burbank Leader.
The Parks and Recreation Department, in coordination with Triumph Foundation, invites Burbank to take part in welcoming wheelchair rugby to the city of Burbank on this Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The Nov. 20 event is free, open to the public and will take place at the McCambridge Recreation Center gym, located at 1515 N. Glenoaks Blvd., Burbank 91504.
The Triumph Foundation, a nonprofit organization working to improve the lives of people living with disabilities, will introduce attendees to the world of wheelchair rugby and the value that adaptive sports bring to the community.
“The city of Burbank is excited to partner with Triumph Foundation to offer this fun and exciting opportunity to our community,” said Marisa Garcia, Parks, Recreation and Community Services director. “Wheelchair rugby is the first of what will be many Burbank-based drop-in play opportunities that will promote accessible and inclusive sports.”
Andrew Skinner, who suffered a spinal cord injury in November 2004 in a snowboarding accident, founded Triumph Foundation in 2008.
“Burbank’s wheelchair rugby commencement celebration will make an impact on everyone who attends,” Skinner said. “We are so thankful for our partnership with the city of Burbank. Events like this give people with disabilities an opportunity to push the limits of their ability, play games with friends and family on a level-playing ground, and enhances quality of life through exercise, sports and fitness.”
According to the city, the objectives of providing wheelchair rugby goes beyond the physical play activities on the court. The Parks and Recreation Department aims to contribute to the mental wellness and self-esteem of individuals with disabilities. This adaptive drop-in sports program will allow participants to feel a sense of camaraderie and fellowship among teammates and find a sense of purpose through sport.
Wheelchair rugby will be offered by the Parks and Recreation Department as an ongoing drop-in sport. Wheelchair rugby drop-in play will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Sundays at McCambridge Recreation Center Gym.
More information on drop-in sports can be found at burbankca.gov/drop-in-sports, or by calling (818) 238-5300.
