Last year, SEDA college NT student, Michael Stewart participated in the Darwin Basketball Association’s Wheelchair exhibition game, led by Paralympians Tom O’Neill and CJ McCarthy-Grogran. Michael’s role involved playing for Team CJ in the event, though prior to this, he helped maintain the wheelchairs every week for a year. This included inspecting the tires, making sure the wheels were latched onto the chairs, and confirming the casters were spinning correctly.
This role allowed Michael to develop a range of skills. Working with two Paralympians and many other like-minded people, he not only improved his leadership skills but gained confidence along the way. Additionally, through exploring and understanding the hazards of different environments, he improved his safety skills.
“I developed multiple skills that I never would have had if it weren’t for SEDA and Darwin Basketball”.
Michael was able to support Darwin Basketball Associations by promoting the sport of wheelchair basketball to people in Darwin as well as the rest of Australia. He felt it was important to recognize wheelchair basketball, and encourage more people to participate in the sport… “even if you are not skilled at using the chair, it’s heaps of fun.”
To learn more about SEDA and the Work Placement opportunities available to students, register to attend a Student and Parent Information Session here.
