Welcome to the 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games

Athlete Registration is Now Open. Sign up for the 2008 Games!
Click here to download the Registration Packet**

Fact Sheet

What:      A multi-event sports and rehabilitation program for military service veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, amputations, or certain neurological problems.  Attracting more than 500 athletes each year, the National Veterans Wheelchair Games is the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world.

Where:      Events will take place at the Qwest Center Omaha, Northwest High School, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Thunderbowl and Mockingbird Bowling facilities, and the Henry Doorly Zoo.

When:      July 25-29, 2008

Why:      The sponsors of this event are committed to improving the quality of life for veterans with disabilities and fostering better health through sports competition.  While past Games have produced a number of national and world-class champions, the Games also provide opportunities for newly disabled veterans to gain sports skills and be exposed to other wheelchair athletes.  Usually, one quarter of the competitors have never before participated in any type of organized wheelchair sports competition.

Presenters:      U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), with financial assistance from corporate, civic, and veterans service organizations.

Hosts:      The VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System (VA NWIHCS), and the Great Plains Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Events:      Competitive events at the Wheelchair Games include swimming, table tennis, weightlifting, archery, air guns, basketball, nine-ball, softball, quad rugby, bowling, handcycling, wheelchair slalom, power soccer, a motorized wheelchair rally, track and field.  Exhibition events are also being planned.  Athletes compete in all events against others with similar athletic ability, competitive experience or age. 

Admission:      Free.  The public is most welcome.

Information:      Craig Enenbach, 2008 Games Coordinator (402) 995-3460,
                           or craig.enenbach@va.gov