Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association Inc.
The Manitoba Wheelchair Sport Association Inc. (MWSA) is a Canadian nonprofit organization and provincial sports body dedicated to promoting wheelchair sports, primarily wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby. Established in 1969, it is one of Canada’s oldest wheelchair sport organizations, preceding the formalization of many national parasport structures[1].

History
Founded during a period of growing advocacy for disability rights and adaptive athletics, MWSA emerged as a pioneer in Manitoba’s parasport community. Its creation aligned with broader Canadian efforts to advance wheelchair sports, including the 1967 establishment of the Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association (CWSA), which laid the groundwork for national coordination[3][4]. Winnipeg, Manitoba, later became a significant site for innovation in wheelchair sports, most notably as the birthplace of wheelchair rugby (originally termed "Murderball") in 1977[5].

Programs and Operations
MWSA facilitates recreational and competitive opportunities across Manitoba, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility. Key aspects include:

• Membership structure: Annual fees are $20 for adults, $15 for youth, and $30 for families, with financial assistance available to reduce barriers[1].
• Sport focus: Acts as the provincial governing body for wheelchair basketball and rugby, offering leagues, training, and development pathways[1][2].
• Advocacy: Promotes physical health and social inclusion through sport, aligning with early parasport goals of challenging perceptions of disability[1][3].

Role in Parasport Development
MWSA has contributed to Canada’s parasport legacy, particularly through its support of wheelchair rugby’s evolution. While not directly involved in the sport’s invention, it provides infrastructure for its growth in Manitoba[5]. The association also collaborates with national bodies to advance competitive opportunities and awareness initiatives, reflecting its mission to foster "physical health for Manitobans of all abilities"[1][2].

See also

• Wheelchair rugby: A contact sport invented in Winnipeg in 1977, now governed nationally by Wheelchair Rugby Canada[5].
• Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association: A national organization established in 1967 to coordinate wheelchair athletics[3][4].

References

Note: The organization’s Business Registration Number is 130651102RR0001.