BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Lakeshore Foundation will play host to the United States Wheelchair Rugby Association (USWRA) National Championship tournament April 9-12. The competition will feature 18 of the top teams from around the country competing in three divisions with title matches on Saturday (DIII) and Sunday.
“As the home of USA Wheelchair Rugby, Lakeshore Foundation is excited to host the 2026 USWRA National Championships, said Kevin Orr, director of recreation and athletics at Lakeshore. “We look forward to hosting 18 teams representing the best wheelchair rugby teams in Division 1, 2 and 3 to crown three national champions.”
Lakeshore, which has a long, storied history in adapted sports, has hosted other USWRA events in the past but has not hosted the national championships since 2011. The tournament will also feature an athlete induction into the USWRA Hall of Fame.
Wheelchair rugby was created in Winnepeg, Canada in 1977 by a group of athletes seeking a more inclusive alternative to wheelchair basketball. Originally called Murderball, the name was later changed to wheelchair rugby. The sport was featured in an award-winning documentary called “Murderball” which was filmed at Lakeshore. The sport gained official Paralympic recognition in 1994 and is played in more than 40 countries.
“Lakeshore Foundation has a long-standing commitment to adapted sports and empowering individuals of all abilities, and we are thrilled to provide a world-class venue for this exciting national championship,” said Lakeshore President and CEO John D. Kemp.
Admission and parking are free each day. Concessions will benefit Lakeshore’s Ability Fund. Lakeshore is conveniently located to some of the nation’s finest James Beard Award winning and Michelin Guide featured dining.
The tournament is sponsored by The First Nation Group Foundation, Melrose Kiwi Concept Chairs USA, Permobil Foundation, Fusion Medical, Coloplast and the Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, visit www.lakeshore.org.
