CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — Every year a Cumberland County wheelchair basketball tournament brings service members and the community together to support those with disabilities.
The Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC) held its 33rd annual wheelchair basketball tournament at Mechanicsburg Middle School on Wednesday evening. This year’s theme was 'Access to Good Jobs for All' and emphasized the event's effort to provide and enhance employment opportunities for everyone, including those with disabilities.
It's equality organizers say is foundational to what the Navy- and ultimately the country- stands for.
"It's foundational to who we are as a country," said Captain Juan Carlos Uribe, the commanding officer for NAVSUP Business Systems Center. " It's what the men and women of our military fought and died for. It represents the best in all of us, and when we're able to be a part of that and demonstrate that, it just means that much more."
It’s an event that has opened doors for many people who have disabilities. Including, Tom McNaughton who has been participating in the tournament for 20 years.
"During my journey of playing wheelchair basketball, [it has] built my confidence as an athlete. It helps me build self-esteem, not on the court, but outside of the court," said McNaughton. "This event has opened a lot of opportunity for kids not knowing about wheelchair basketball, and showing that there are adaptive sports out there."
That community support at the tournament every year goes a long way.
"It really demonstrates how this matters, and how people recognize that it matters when they come here to support," said Capt. Uribe. "It's the middle of the school week. There's a lot of things going on right now. It just speaks to the nature of this special community here in Mechanicsburg."