Wheelchair Rugby Breaks Barriers, Strengthens Sports Diplomacy
Sabika Shrestha
Energy and excitement filled the Covered Hall of the National Sports Council in Kathmandu-based Tripureshwor, as the Wheelchair Rugby Association of Nepal concluded its three-day Wheelchair Rugby Development Training 2026 on Thursday.
For the athletes in wheelchairs, the court was more than a place to compete, it was a chance to showcase their abilities, challenge perceptions and push the boundaries of inclusion.
The first international-level wheelchair rugby development training of its kind in Nepal brought together fourteen Nepali players and a visiting team from the United States.
This created an opportunity to develop skills and exchange sporting experiences.
The training covered wheelchair handling, game skills, strategy, physical fitness, injury prevention and rehabilitation with an aim of strengthening the foundation of wheelchair rugby in Nepal and preparing players for potential regional and international competitions.
Wheelchair rugby matches between Nepali and American players, along with dance, singing and cultural performances made the event a celebration of sport and inclusion.
Mike Harker, Public Affairs Head of U.S. Embassy said the program also highlighted the importance of international partnerships in expanding opportunities for adaptive sports and is a step forward in sports diplomacy.
However, organizers say limited resources remain a challenge in developing and sustaining such programs independently in Nepal.
Gokarna Dhungana, Secretary of the Wheelchair Rugby Association of Nepal, said the country currently lacks the resources to develop the sport independently. A team of doctors and coaches brought wheelchairs to Nepal and trained local players, marking the beginning of wheelchair rugby in the country. He hopes this initiative will pave the way for more sports opportunities for people with disabilities, helping them overcome challenges, build confidence and stay actively engaged in sports.
Alongside competition and skills development, the clinic emphasised the importance of safety in wheelchair rugby, including proper medical assessment, injury prevention and professional supervision.
A specialist in spinal cord injury rehabilitation was also part of the visiting team, bringing medical expertise to the training.
Dr. Jeff Berliner, Chief Physician of the U.S. Rugby Team, said wheelchair rugby is a safe sport for athletes with disabilities when played under proper supervision. He said the sport also provides physical exercise and helps athletes improve their mobility. Before taking part in matches, players were trained under the supervision of physicians, coaches and trainers to ensure they could participate safely.
By bringing together athletes, coaches, medical professionals and international partners, the event sought to build more than sporting skills.
Organisers say continued collaboration, access to resources and sustained training will be crucial to developing wheelchair rugby in Nepal, helping athletes with disabilities pursue competitive opportunities and gain greater recognition through sport.
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