Wheel Blacks Paralympic Qualifier Tournament - Day Seven

Day 7: Classification and Preparation 🏉
Day seven marked a pivotal moment in our journey as we navigated through crucial processes and preparations ahead of the Paralympic qualifier tournament.
Yesterday, four of our players underwent the classification process—Maia Marshall-Amai, Jacinta Richardson, Ian Simpson, and Mike Todd. Classification is fundamental in Para sports, determining eligibility and grouping athletes based on the impact of their impairment on their ability to compete. In wheelchair rugby, this involves assigning players a point value based on functional mobility, ensuring parity in athletic ability on the court. It was an hour-long process, resulting in Jacinta's international classification, a significant milestone in her career, while the others await confirmation pending court observation.
Following lunch, we convened for the manager's meeting—an essential step in the competition, where all managers and officials gathered to finalise crucial details.
Exciting news emerged regarding hydration, with our players now permitted to consume electrolytes in the green room at New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport—a significant development in ensuring optimal performance on the court.
Later in the afternoon, a pivotal video session saw us meticulously studying our first opponent, the Netherlands, in preparation for tomorrow's game. This was followed by our final training session—the captain's run—an opportunity to fine-tune strategies and rehearse our haka, infusing us with a sense of unity and purpose.
Chaperons from Drug Free Sport New Zealand were present to conduct player tests, underscoring our commitment to fair play and integrity.
As evening descended, we gathered for a nourishing dinner before retiring for the night, nerves and anticipation swirling as we braced ourselves for the tip-off of the Paralympic qualifier tournament tomorrow.
As I reflect on the day's events, a mixture of nerves and excitement fills the air, reminding us of the significance of the journey we're embarking upon.
Stay tuned for updates as we enter this crucial phase of competition with determination and resolve. Sport New Zealand