USA Wheelchair Rugby Claims Gold in Brazil

USA Wheelchair Rugby has officially claimed the title of the best team in the Western Hemisphere, triumphing at the 2025 World Wheelchair Rugby Americas Championship held in São Paulo, Brazil.

Under the expert guidance of coaches Joe Delagrave and Eric Newby, the U.S. squad,co-captained by the formidable Chuck Aoki and Sarah Adam,delivered a stellar performance throughout the tournament. they navigated the pool play without a single loss, defeating national teams from Argentina, Brazil, and Peru. Their undefeated streak was put to the test against a highly skilled Colombian team, proving to be one of the toughest matchups of the championship.

reflecting on the intense match against Colombia, head coach Joe Delagrave commented, “We anticipated a strong start from them, knowing they are a solid squad. We knew we had to come out with equal or greater intensity, which we certainly did today. Our preparation has focused on developing multiple tactical approaches to adapt to different game situations and respond effectively to our opponents’ strategies.”

The path to gold culminated in a highly anticipated rematch against the host nation, Brazil, for the championship title. Although the U.S. team scored the opening try, Brazil quickly retaliated, forcing several turnovers in the first half. However,the American squad showcased exceptional defensive resilience,managing to build a significant lead by halftime.They continued to extend their advantage in the second half, ultimately securing a decisive 61-47 victory over the home crowd favorites.

This hard-fought victory not only secures the Americas Championship gold for USA Wheelchair Rugby but also earns them a coveted spot in the 2026 World Wheelchair Rugby World Championships, which will also be hosted in São Paulo next summer.

Coach Delagrave expressed his immense pride in the teamS achievement: “Our objective coming here was twofold: to qualify for the World Championships and to win this prestigious event. The level of competition in the Americas continues to rise each year, making this a challenging but rewarding endeavor. I am incredibly proud of how the team responded to every obstacle. I’m deeply grateful to our dedicated staff for their tireless hard work and to our families and fans, both here and back home, for their unwavering support. We extend our sincere thanks to World Wheelchair rugby and the Brazilian Paralympic Committee for their excellent institution of this tournament in São Paulo. We eagerly anticipate returning next year for the World Championships!”

what strategies did the USA team employ to overcome Canada’s comeback in the second quarter?

The Thrilling Victory at the 2025 Brazil Championships

The USA Wheelchair Rugby team has secured a stunning gold medal victory at the 2025 Brazil Championships, defeating a formidable Canadian team in a nail-biting final. This win marks a notable achievement for the program and solidifies the United States’ position as a global powerhouse in wheelchair rugby, also known as murderball. The championship, held in São Paulo, Brazil, showcased incredible athleticism, strategic gameplay, and unwavering team spirit.

Key Moments from the Gold Medal Match

The final against Canada was a display of intense competition. Here’s a breakdown of pivotal moments:

First Quarter Dominance: The USA team came out strong, establishing an early lead with aggressive offensive plays and tight defensive formations. Key players like Chuck Aoki and Josh Brewer were instrumental in controlling possession.

Canadian Comeback: Canada responded in the second quarter, narrowing the gap with strategic line changes and capitalizing on US turnovers. Their captain, Patrice Dagenais, proved a constant threat.

Third Quarter Battle: The third quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading scores. The physicality of wheelchair rugby was on full display, with impactful blocks and strategic positioning.

Final Quarter Surge: The USA rallied in the fourth quarter, fueled by a renewed defensive effort and clutch scoring from veteran player Joe Jackson.A late-game timeout allowed the team to regroup and execute a winning strategy. The final score was 52-48.

Player Highlights & Team Composition

The USA team’s success is a testament to the talent and dedication of its players.

Chuck Aoki: Considered one of the best players in the world, Aoki’s strategic positioning and powerful drives were crucial throughout the tournament. he is a 3.5 classification player.

Josh Brewer: A dynamic offensive force,Brewer consistently found ways to break through the Canadian defense.He is a 2.5 classification player.

Joe Jackson: A veteran leader, Jackson’s experience and composure under pressure were invaluable. He is a 1.0 classification player.

Team Classification: Understanding wheelchair rugby requires knowing the classification system. Players are categorized from 0.5 to 3.5 based on functional ability, with teams needing to maintain a point total of 8.0 on the court at all times. This ensures fair competition.

Understanding Wheelchair Rugby: A Guide for New Fans

For those unfamiliar with the sport, wheelchair rugby is a fast-paced, full-contact team sport designed for athletes with upper body disabilities. Here’s a quick overview:

1. The Court: Played on a basketball-sized court with specific zones for offensive and defensive play.
2. The wheelchairs: specially designed wheelchairs with bumpers allow for strategic ramming and blocking.
3. The Ball: A volleyball is used, and players must bounce or pass the ball to advance it down the court.
4. Scoring: Points are awarded by crossing the goal line with possession of the ball.
5. Contact: Intentional contact is a key element of the game, making it a thrilling and physically demanding sport.

The Benefits of Wheelchair Rugby for Athletes

Wheelchair rugby offers numerous benefits for athletes with disabilities:

Physical Fitness: The sport provides a rigorous workout, improving upper body strength, cardiovascular health, and endurance.

Social Connection: Teamwork and camaraderie are central to wheelchair rugby, fostering a strong sense of community.

Empowerment: The sport empowers athletes to overcome physical challenges and achieve their full potential.

Competitive Outlet: Wheelchair rugby provides a competitive outlet for athletes to test their skills and strive for excellence.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Paris 2024 & Beyond

This victory in Brazil serves as a crucial stepping stone towards the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The USA team will continue to train and refine their strategies as they prepare to defend their paralympic title. The team is also focused on developing the next generation of wheelchair rugby players through grassroots programs and outreach initiatives.

Where to Find Wheelchairs and Adaptive Sports Equipment

for individuals interested in getting involved in wheelchair rugby or other adaptive sports, resources are available. Walmart offers a range of