Paralympics comes early to SportsDock
Saturday 25 August 2012
With the London 2012 Paralympic Games only a matter of days away, a bumper crowd turned out in force this evening at SportsDock to watch 2008 Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Gold Medallists, United States, take on Great Britain in a thrilling warm up game.
In what was a nail biting encounter with end to end action, USA emerged victorious with a narrow 52-48 final result. Without question, this evening’s fantastic atmosphere and reception from the crowd is clear evidence there is a huge appetite for the London 2012 Paralympic Games, which has been widely touted to be the most popular and high profile hitherto.
Speaking after this evening’s game, GB Women’s Head Coach, Garry Peel, said: “It is great to be based at UEL, and really helpful for the team to have the use of such fantastic facilities in the run up to the Paralympics.
“Furthermore, to play the warm up match against the best in the world on the doorstep of the Olympic Park has been very beneficial.”
Jeff Downes, United States manager said: “Both teams should be proud of the game tonight. A special thanks goes out to the faculty, student and local community for supporting tonight's game, and coming out to experience first- hand one of the greatest sports at the Paralympic Games.”
SportsDock, which served as the main training base for Team USA athletes during the Olympics, will also be used as a training venue by both U.S. Paralympics and Team GB.
Wheelchair Basketball is the number one wheelchair sport in the world, and will be played at the North Greenwich Arena during the Paralympics.
