Sheffield Steelers Wheelchair Basketball Club, based in Sheffield, is a renowned basketball club with a rich history of success and international recognition. Founded in 1987 by a group of former patients from the Spinal Injuries Unit at Lodgemoor, a division of the NHS Sheffield Teaching Hospital Trust, the club has since evolved into a registered charity.
The Steelers' story is one of sheer determination, as within just three years of formation, many of the founding players represented Great Britain in the World Championships and finished 11th. Over the next few years, the British squad became packed with Steelers' players and went on to win medals at the European Championships, World Championships, and secured a silver medal at the Paralympics in Atlanta.
With four different teams for the 2023/24 season, including the leading League, Division 1 North, Division 3, and Women's League, the Sheffield Steelers cater to players of all abilities, from amateur through to world-class. The club is dedicated to inclusivity and welcomes players at all levels while providing training and development opportunities.
To join the Sheffield Steelers, adults are required to pay a membership fee of 260 per year, while juniors can join for 156 per year. In addition, there is a British Wheelchair Basketball (BWB) registration fee of 30 per year for adults and 15 per year for juniors. These fees help support the club's operations and ensure access to training facilities, coaching, and equipment.
The Sheffield Steelers have achieved significant milestones over the years, including hosting the EuroLeague 2 Finals with the support of Max Wheelchairs Limited. The club continues to strive for excellence and caters to both domestic and international competitions.
The club's training takes place at their multi-sport training venue in the Spinal Injuries Unit at Northern General Hospital, offering state-of-the-art facilities to support players' development and progress. The Steelers pride themselves on their commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for wheelchair basketball enthusiasts.
To stay updated with the latest news and events, the Sheffield Steelers can be followed on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. The club encourages those interested in wheelchair basketball to get in touch and learn more about the sport and the Steelers' community.
Overall, the Sheffield Steelers Wheelchair Basketball Club is a highly reputable and successful club in Sheffield, with a commitment to inclusivity, development, and international recognition.