Momentum is building for wheelchair basketball for women in Australia as Paralympians Leanne Del Toso and Shelley Matheson take charge. In the face of obstacles ranging from funding shortages to limited opportunities, their latest Play On program brings hope of restoring the reputation of Australia and fostering new talent prior to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympics. The underlying concept is an ambition for greater equality and participation for disabled girls and women.
From Past Glory to Recent Setbacks
Few sports moments can compare to being on the Paralympic podium. Leanne Del Toso, who was an important player of Australia's Gliders, recalls her silver medal in 2012 as one that was both a long-suffering and memorable. Since their debut in 1992, the Gliders have been prominently featured on the international stage, with numerous medals—however, the last few years have been a turbulent time since they were unable to secure Rio and Paris qualification.
Del Toso admits: "It would destroy our program when it comes to 2032 if we don't feature." Since the 2012 Games, systemic neglect and pandemic disruptions have undermined the support for women's wheelchair basketball—which has forced a painful review of resources and priorities.
Barriers for Aspiring Athletes
For players of today, such as the current Glider as well as researcher Georgia Munro-Cook, the biggest challenge isn't only athletic—it's institutional. Women with disabilities are often not given the motivation to participate in any kind of sport, much less get access to the pathways that fuel elite competition. The system at the grassroots is insufficient, and many girls have to train with male athletes, hindering the growth of their own strengths.
"It's a numbers game, with more men participating in the sport than women, at an elite level the men's team has a more robust talent pool."
Both teams, women’s and men’s, have limited training facilities and equipment—however, for women the odds are more bleak. As Del Toso looked to return after having a baby, she discovered that her state of residence, Victoria, had no women's team, highlighting the need for new initiatives.
The Birth of Play On
Determined to not let the sport she loves slip from her life, Del Toso, with Matheson, established the Play On program specifically for disabled girls and women. Beginning with nothing, they negotiated the obstacles to secure access to equipment and facilities. It’s been a long and difficult process, yet their determination is never-changing.
Financial pressures are a big issue for those who participate, and many are juggling work, studies, and family commitments. Sometimes, the requirement of "train like a professional athlete" isn’t a fair expectation without formal support.
Paving the Way for the Future
Despite obstacles, the momentum is gaining. With over 30 players each week and a brand-new community grant that will provide essential gear, Play On is an excellent resource for those who seek connection and community through sports. Basketball Australia's support, which includes three women's leagues that have been created, offers a brighter future for those who want to become athletes.
The vision driving Play On is not just sporting success, but social transformation—helping disabled girls and women find belonging and empowerment. Matheson is expressing a desire that is shared by many: a greater number of women serving as coaches and leaders is as important as a strong player pipeline. The message is clear: it's focused on equal opportunity and opportunities and not a lack of barriers.
Women's Wheelchair Basketball: Rebuilding for Brisbane 2032
The true impact of Play On will be seen in the coming years. As the team gets ready for Brisbane, how to participate in women's wheelchair basketball is becoming more popular as a topic. The answer lies in the growing community of athletes, who are reimagining the next together.
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