Wheelchair rugby is an intense, physical team sport for male and female athletes with quadriplegia (tetraplegia). The sport can be very physical as athletes attempt to carry the ball over the opponent's goal line.

The four players on the court cannot exceed a combined total of eight points. A volleyball is used and it can be carried, dribbled, or passed in any way except by kicking. The ball must be bounced at least once every 10 seconds and rugby is played in eight-minute quarters.

The players are classified according to their level of functional ability and are assigned a point value from 0.5 to 3.5 points – the higher the points, the more functional ability the athlete has.

Links

Wheelchair Rugby Australia
International Wheelchair Rugby Federation
International Paralympic Committee

At the London Paralympics

Eight teams of 12 players will compete at the London Paralympics - Australia, Great Britain, USA, Canada, Sweden, Japan, France, Belgium.

Competition Dates

Wednesday 5 - Sunday 9 September, 2012

Competition Venue

Olympic Park - Basketball Arena

Events/Disciplines

Eight team tournament (mixed – males & females)

Classification

Wheelchair rugby is open to athletes with a:

• Physical impairment who have a disability that affects their trunk and at least three of their four limbs.

Added together, the classifications of the four players on the court must not exceed eight points.

CLICK HERE for a detailed explanation of the different wheelchair rugby classes.

How do I get a classification?

You can request a classification using the APC Get Classified form.

Rules & Equipment

Court - Wheelchair rugby is played indoors on a regulation-sized basketball court. The basketball key area is replaced by a wheelchair rugby key 8m x 1.75m. The part of the end line within the key is called the goal line, and is marked with one pylon at each end.  

Ball - An official size and weight volleyball is used for play. The ball must weight 280 grams and be white in colour.

Wheelchairs - As a contact sport, wheelchair rugby places high demands on players' wheelchairs. They must be lightweight and easy to manoeuvre while still being strong enough to protect the players and withstand the frequent intense collisions. Wheelchair rugby chairs have several unique features including bumpers at the front and wings to protect the side area. Spoke protectors and anti-tip devices are mandatory. All wheelchairs must meet IWRF regulations.

Gloves - Athletes may wear gloves to improve their grip on the ball.