The event is organized under the Erasmus+ Sport project titled "Social Inclusion through Adapted Basketball (SITAB)," funded under project number 101133415 - ERASMUS-SPORT-2023 - LS. This initiative aims to foster social inclusion and empower athletes through the universal language of sport.
Held at the OŠ Mika Antić hall, the one-day tournament brought together teams from Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and the host nation, Serbia. Participants and organizers alike emphasized the significant impact of such tournaments, highlighting the scarcity of competitive matches in their respective countries which hinders the sport’s broader development.
Wheelchair basketball stands out as one of the most inclusive parasports, accommodating athletes with varying degrees of disability and even including able-bodied players. This inclusivity not only fosters a diverse competitive environment but also promotes understanding and solidarity among participants. The sport is renowned for its dynamic pace and high level of demand, making it both exciting to play and watch.
The local community in Niš demonstrated strong support, with a considerable number of spectators filling the stands to witness the thrilling matches. The enthusiasm of the fans underscored the growing popularity of wheelchair basketball in the region and the community’s commitment to supporting adaptive sports.
Additionally, the tournament served as an excellent opportunity for students from the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education in Niš. These students engaged in practical exercises related to working with individuals with disabilities, gaining invaluable hands-on experience through their participation in the event.
While the primary goals of the tournament were inclusion, socialization, and the advancement of the sport, competition was also keenly felt on the court. The local team from Club Nais emerged victorious, securing first place by outperforming their Bulgarian counterparts, who took second place. The newly established team from North Macedonia proudly claimed third place, marking a successful debut in the tournament.
Although the Club Nais team stood out as the most successful in the competition, the true winners were all participants who came together to celebrate sportsmanship and inclusion. The event not only highlighted the talents of wheelchair basketball players but also reinforced the importance of creating platforms where athletes of all abilities can compete and thrive together.