Winnipeg wheelchair basketball athlete and coach gears up for Paralympics
As the Tokyo Paralympic Games draw near, one Winnipeg athlete and coach is preparing to represent Canada on the world stage.
Joanne MacDonald, a wheelchair basketball player and coach, has been selected to join the Canadian women’s wheelchair basketball team for the upcoming Paralympic Games.
MacDonald, who has been playing wheelchair basketball for over 20 years, is no stranger to the Paralympics. She has previously competed in the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games, where she helped the Canadian team win a bronze medal.
Now, as a coach and player, MacDonald is determined to bring home another medal for Canada.
“I’m really excited to be able to represent Canada once again at the Paralympic Games,” MacDonald said in an interview with Global News.
MacDonald’s passion for wheelchair basketball began after she was diagnosed with a spinal cord injury at the age of 16. She quickly fell in love with the sport and has been playing ever since.
In addition to her own athletic achievements, MacDonald has also made a significant impact as a coach. She has been coaching the Manitoba provincial wheelchair basketball team for over 10 years and has helped numerous athletes reach their full potential.
“Being able to coach and mentor young athletes is incredibly rewarding,” MacDonald said. “I hope to inspire them to reach for their dreams and show them that anything is possible.”
MacDonald’s dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. She was recently inducted into the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame for her contributions to the sport.
As she prepares for the Paralympic Games, MacDonald is focused on training and fine-tuning her skills. She is determined to give her all on the court and make her country proud.
The Tokyo Paralympic Games will take place from August 24 to September 5, and MacDonald is ready to showcase her talent and represent Canada with pride.
“I am grateful for this opportunity and I am looking forward to competing against the best in the world,” MacDonald said. “I am determined to give it my all and bring home a medal for Canada.”
