Jose Sol
"I continue to play wheelchair basketball because it serves multiple important purposes in my life. Firstly, it helps me stay in shape. Additionally, it has introduced me to a wonderful community of like-minded individuals who share similar levels of mobility, creating a strong sense of camaraderie.
Moreover, the sport has been instrumental in boosting my self-esteem and confidence despite my disability. It's also a fantastic stress reliever. Interestingly, I didn't initially plan on playing. I simply went to watch a tournament one day out of curiosity. However, I was so inspired that I began practicing in a parking lot to improve my skills with the goal of joining a team.
Fast forward seven years, and I'm still playing. It brings me immense happiness and allows me to reconnect with the friends I've made along the way. My journey began on September 18, 2003, when I sustained a life-changing injury at work. A fall from a height of about 16 feet resulted in a spinal injury at the T12 and L1 levels, leaving me paralyzed from the waist down.
Today, at 45 years old, I am grateful to be a part of the Coastal Chairmen, cherishing the positive impact that wheelchair basketball has had on my life."