A wheelchair basketball team from Canada will be in Bermuda next week offering clinics and classes in Island schools.

WindReach Recreational Village is hosting the group of wheelchair basketball players from Variety Village, an inclusive sports centre based in Toronto.

"Wheelchair basketball has emerged as the most popular team sport among those with disabilities and has more individuals participating in it than any other sport," a press release said.

The game was first played at a veterans' hospital in 1946 and today there are more than 150 teams that participate in tournaments.

The game's rules are the same, with a few exceptions for wheelchair use and level of ability, but the games can also involve those not in need of wheelchairs.

"Such games provide excellent opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in exciting and challenging activities," the release said.

"Often non-disabled players develop a new level of understanding for the ability of these peers."

The team will be showcasing their talents at CedarBridge Academy, Dellwood Middle School and Bermuda High School for Girls (BHS) as well as performing at a slam-dunk open at the WindReach facilities and an evening clinic with workshop demonstration and coaching session at the Saltus Senior School gym.

The team will be the first overseas group to stay in the new, wheelchair-accessible cabins at WindReach while they are in Bermuda from October 22 to 25.

Admission to all the week's events are free, however, donations are welcome.

For more information concerning the schedule of events call Miranda Mello or Tammalita Astwood at 238-2469.