Rollers and Gliders Qualify for 2018 World Championships

Australia’s men’s and women’s wheelchair basketball teams have both successfully qualified for the 2018 World Championships after medalling at the AOZ Qualifiers in China.

The Australian men’s team completed an undefeated campaign to book their berth for next year’s showpiece in Hamburg, where they will attempt to defend their world crown.

Having slipped out of the medals at last year’s Paralympics for the first time since Sydney 2000, the Rollers returned to their customary tenacity and hunger, to outclass each of their opponents in China, claiming the gold medal in the final – courtesy of a thumping 80-54 win over Iran. 

Western Australians Shaun Norris and Kim Robbins both impressed in the Rollers’ success, whilst Brad Ness travelled with the squad in his capacity as assistant coach.

Having missed qualification for the 2016 Rio Paralympics, Australia’s women’s team embarked on their campaign looking to ensure they would return to the big stage in international wheelchair basketball.

The Gliders achieved that mission by finishing second in their AOZ Qualification path, falling short of the title in a 57-46 defeat at the hands of host nation China.

WA was well represented in Beijing, with Amber Merritt earning the tournament MVP gong, whilst Clare Nott and Sarah Vinci both received selection in the all-star five, alongside Merritt. Georgia Inglis made it four representatives for the state out of a total squad of 12 athletes. 

The 2018 World Championships for men and women will be held in the German city of Hamburg from August 16-26.