The sound of basketballs dribbling, wheels spinning, and cheers echoing through the Turnstone Center in Fort Wayne marked another milestone for the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA). This year’s women’s and military division championships were more than just a tournament—they were a testament to the unwavering spirit of athletes who refuse to let anything, not even physical challenges, define their limits.
For many, including North Carolina native Caitlin Hynes, this event was a moment to reflect on the transformative power of the sport.
Caitlin Hynes: A Lifetime of Lessons and Empowerment
Caitlin Hynes, a seasoned athlete who has been playing wheelchair basketball since 2002, offered a glimpse into the profound impact the sport has had on her life. Born with spina bifida, Hynes credits wheelchair basketball for shaping her independence, resilience, and ambition.
“I don’t know where I would be if it wasn’t for the wheelchair basketball community,” Hynes shared. “It definitely taught me how to be independent, set goals, and showed me that I can do everything able-bodied people can do.”
Her words were a reminder of the personal victories that unfold on the court—victories that go beyond the final score.
A Homecoming of Hope and Competition
This year marked the second consecutive season that Fort Wayne’s Turnstone Center hosted the NWBA championships, bringing together hundreds of athletes and their families for a weekend of fierce competition and heartfelt camaraderie. The event, as NWBA Chief Operating Officer Brandon McBeain described, was like a “family reunion” where players reunited with old friends while still battling it out on the court.
While the competition was fierce, the tournament’s larger goal transcended the score. The NWBA championships embody a unique mix of athleticism and inclusivity, where the spirit of competition doesn’t overshadow the deep sense of community.
“You’re here to win,” McBeain acknowledged, “but it’s also about coming together. The scores on the board are important, but the shared experience is what matters most.”
For athletes like Hynes, it’s the chance to play, to push boundaries, and to show the world that every athlete, regardless of ability, can shine.
More Than Just a Game: Finding Purpose and Joy
Beyond the buzzer, beyond the win or loss, Hynes emphasized one core principle: “Really, it’s just about having fun.” For her, wheelchair basketball is not just a sport; it’s a source of empowerment and joy.
“Having places like Turnstone in Fort Wayne to provide these opportunities to play is really important,” she said. “It’s why we keep coming back. It’s why we keep playing.”
This sense of community, of shared purpose, extends far beyond the court. The NWBA championships aren’t just a venue for showcasing skill; they are a platform for athletes to express resilience, determination, and the strength of a community that has supported each other for years.
The Tournament: A Celebration of Resilience and Excellence
The tournament runs through Sunday, April 27, marking the end of the NWBA’s 2024-2025 season. As the competition heats up, athletes prepare for one final push, knowing that the rewards of participation are greater than any championship title.
As the closing ceremony looms, it’s clear that these championships were not only a sporting event but also a reaffirmation of the power of sport in the lives of those who participate. From the athletes’ smiles to the loud cheers, from the competitive gameplay to the lasting friendships, the event was a celebration of resilience, unity, and shared passion.
