Blog: “I have so many opportunities, I'm trying to grab them all”
The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) website features a blog post every Friday. This year, we'll be sharing the experiences of disabled people involved in sport and exercise at all levels, finding out what impact being active has on their lives. Today, 16 year old basketball player Brooke Mottram tells us how the sport has done wonders for her physical and mental strength.
Hi, I’m Brooke, I live in Gateshead Tyne and Wear and I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. My condition affects my joints as they dislocate or subluxate on a daily basis. It also affects my organs and skin.
I play wheelchair basketball for RGK Tees Valley Titans in Middlesbrough and train two to three times a week.
Before getting into basketball, I was a talented dancer. However, my condition deteriorated and I started using a wheelchair. I came across a leaflet about wheelchair basketball at one of my physiotherapy sessions, and I thought why not, I’ll give that a go!
I’ve not looked back since and I can proudly say I now also represent a number of other teams – Tees Valley Titans Premier League team, Division Three team and Junior League team. I also represent the England North Team at the School Games, North East England at national level, Sheffield Steelers in the Women’s League and the GB under 25s women’s team.
I absolutely love basketball because when I’m on court I’m me. I know I’m not being judged and I am around people who want to be there too.
Playing basketball has done wonders for my upper body strength, which has become invaluable to me.
During a game of basketball I’m 100 per cent focused on getting the win and helping my teammates. Afterwards, I analyse the game back in my mind. If we win it feels awesome but if we lose our heads can go down. This is where we rely on the bond we have together as a team to lift each other’s spirits back up.
The support I have is amazing, my parents drive me to training and games, and support me in whatever I decide to do. I’ve also made great friends through basketball, on my own team and other players around the country.
I also have great support from my coaches. Lee Fawcett, who is my coach and a former GB wheelchair basketball player, is a great inspiration to me. The advice he gives me about basketball and daily life has been and continues to be very valuable to me. My other club coaches, Jon Hall, Matt Byrne, Richard Sargent and Jude Hamer are also great. I feel very lucky to have such a great support network around me.
This year is going to see me play around 15 more games for the Tees Valley Titans teams. Two weeks at the Women’s league, three games for nationals with the North East England team and three games for the junior league. I’m also fundraising to get a new sports chair that I fit into properly.
I remember being laid up in bed for a year not knowing what was happening. Now, I have so many opportunities, I’m trying to grab them all. Start small and try to work up a level when you’re ready. Exercise not only strengthens your body but your mind too. My best advice would be to talk about your ability to whoever takes the session. There’s honestly something for everyone.
Brooke and her family are currently fundraising for a new bespoke sports chair. With a new chair she’ll be able to reach her full potential representing her team, region and country. If you would like to donate please go to Brooke’s Go Fund Me page.
If you want to be more active but aren't sure how to start, visit our dedicated webpages for advice.
