During the weekend of February 6th-8th, Portland was holding an invitational game for Quad Rugby. Although I have done and seen several wheelchair sports, I have not had the chance to witness a Quad Rugby game live. Therefore, I was excited to make an appearance as Ms Wheelchair America 2009 First Runner Up at the event. On the first day, I was surprised to find myself to be the only girl in a wheelchair. It was not until the next day when I saw a female athlete playing for the British Columbia team. She was a great player. I also met many wonderful teams from Portland Pounders, British Columbia Bandits, Northridge Kings, Michigan Storm, Seattle Slam, and Western Rovers. Some of them have even played for the Paralympics Games in Beijing. The players’ discipline, determination, and strength were amazing. They got right back into the game even though they had just fallen backwards on the court. The game was both fun and intense to watch as the players crashed into each other trying to get the ball behind the line.
Since Oregon does not have a Ms Wheelchair state program, many people at the event were interested and asked me questions about Ms Wheelchair America. I shared with several of them about the pageant and the advocacy work titleholders have done in the country. It would be wonderful if Ms Wheelchair Oregon was established to empower the women with disabilities in that state. On the last day, I had the honor of presenting awards to some of the most talented players. Although Portland Pounders won the game, it was clear that all the teams were winners. I hope the next time I watch a Quad Rugby game; I will see more female players on the court. My appearance in Portland was very memorable.
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