Rugby

Wheelchair rugby is an intense, physical team sport for quadriplegic (tetraplegic) male and female athletes. It originated as "murder ball" in 1977 in Canada and is rapidly developing around the world.

Wheelchair rugby combines elements of basketball, football and ice hockey and it is played on a basketball court. The teams are formed by four players and up to eight substitutes. The players are classified according to their ability and are assigned a point value from 0.5 to 3.5 points. The four players on the court cannot exceed 8.0 points. A volleyball is used and it can be carried, dribbled, or passed in any way except by kicking. The ball must be bounced at least once every 10 seconds. Athletes try to score goals by carrying the ball over the opponent's goal line. Wheelchair Rugby is played in four eight-minute (stop-time) quarters.

The Mid North Coast and ACT are particularly strong in the sport of wheelchair rugby, with Australian representatives residing in each area. A large contingent of dedicated players in these regions train daily and compete in their own local competitions.

Game Rules and Regulations

For a more information about the game and a full listing of the rules visit www.iwrf.com

IWRF Bumper Ruling click here

IWRF Case Book click here

Who to Contact

Any newcomers are welcome to come along and have a go. For more information contact William Tan on 02 9809 5260 or williamt@wsnsw.org.au, or your regional contact:

Other key contacts for Rugby in NSW:

Click on the organisation names below to go directly to their website. Wheelchair Rugby Australia