Adapted Athletics Earns Multiple Championships

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Student-athletes in The University of Alabama’s Adapted Athletics program earned national championship status in both women’s wheelchair basketball and para track and field.

Women’s Wheelchair Basketball

The women’s wheelchair basketball team won its fifth consecutive national championship on March 9, defeating the University of Texas at Arlington 75-57. 

“This season showed how connected of a team we have. This season was filled with challenges like any other. I was super proud of the way this group of talented individuals came together as a team to accomplish our goals,” said women’s wheelchair basketball head coach Ryan Hynes. “We focused on building and improving each and every day; I think everyone really bought into that and we peaked at the right time.”

The championship game was a battle against a great team in Texas-Arlington, but it showed how great of a team we have. It took all 13 student-athletes to win this championship. We had five players score in double figures, and our bench was loud and engaged for the whole game, even when we were down at halftime. We made some great adjustments in the second half and were able to take control of the game. I am so proud of this group and am blessed to coach such a selfless team that has become a family.”

Men’s Wheelchair Basketball

Men’s wheelchair basketball had an impressive showing at their national championship tournament appearance March 14-16 at Southwest Minnesota State University where they finished third.

“To me this team improved greatly this season. We really learned to work for each other. They became a family both on and off the court. I am super proud of who they became,” said men’s wheelchair basketball head coach Ford Burttram.

Wheelchair Athletes Headed to the 2024 Paralympics

The Team USA rosters have been announced for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, France and the following UA Adapted Athletics players and coaches have earned a spot:

Women’s Wheelchair Basketball

Bailey Moody 

Ixhelt Gonzalez 

Abby Bauleke 

Lindsey Zurbrugg 

Staff

Ryan Hynes, UA Head Coach – USA Assistant Coach 

Alex Curry, Director of Sports Medicine – USA Head Athletic Trainer

Desi Miller, Alumni – USA Assistant Coach 

Men’s Wheelchair Basketball

UA Adapted Athletics men’s wheelchair basketball player Peter Berry received an alternate position for the men’s team. 

Para Track and Field

Dani Kanas, a thrower on UA’s inaugural Para Track and Field team, became the 2024 National Champion for USA Para Track and Field in the Javelin F46 classification. She also beat her personal record of 27.59 meters.

“The championship was an important step towards making it on the world team. Even though I wasn’t able to make the list, it was great experience, and I had the opportunity to show coaches what I can do. It also showed how the work I was doing at Alabama is paying off,” Kanas said.

“I was able to accomplish what I did because of the encouragement and coaching I got from Coach Nadia and Evan, along with the strengthening from Coach Wood. Putting in the work at practices and just a lot of repetition helped me set those personal records.”