About Wheelchair Tennis

Wheelchair Tennis was founded in 1976 when Brad Parks first hit a tennis ball from a wheelchair and realised the potential of this new sport. Still one of the fastest growing wheelchair sports in the world, wheelchair tennis integrates very easily with the able-bodied game since it can be played on any regular tennis court, with no modifications to rackets and balls. Wheelchair tennis follows the same rules as able-bodied tennis as endorsed by the ITF, with the only exception being that the wheelchair tennis player is allowed two bounces of the ball.

Wheelchair Tennis also has an international tour. The NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour originated in 1992 with 11 internatiional tournaments but has grown in size and popularity with currently over 120 events taking place all over the world.

To be eligible to compete, a player must have a medically diagnosed permanent mobility related physical disability which must result in a substantial loss of function in one or both lower extremities.


For further information on Wheelchair Tennis: ITF Wheelchair Tennis and IWA (Irish Wheelchair Association)

 

Contacts for Wheelchair Tennis in Ireland:

  • Carrickmines Wheelchair Tennis: Pat Crowe (086-3849231)
  • Shankill Wheelchair Tennis Club: Mark Barry (087-9842384)
  • Spokes in Motion Wheelchair Tennis Club, Belfast: Ivor Jess (44-771-1692485)

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