By Morgan Huizar
The South Texas Regional Adaptive Paralympics Sports program (STRAPS) competed Jan. 18, 2025, during halftime of the University of the Incarnate Word women’s basketball game against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.
STRAPS, a program of Morgan’s Wonderland, offers 14 wheelchair sports for people of all ages and disabilities. For some sports, athletes are divided into age groups. In basketball, athletes as young as five can participate, up until the age of 18, after which they transition to the adult wheelchair division.
The program is organized by Brooke Matula, who has worked with Morgan’s for the past 10 years, and Willie Jackson, the soccer coach at the facility. The basketball event was coordinated by Matula and Kenyon Spears, assistant athletic director for UIW sports.
Spears, who has been with UIW for 28 years, played a key role in helping Matula bring her athletes to the court. During halftime, 10 STRAPS athletes, including the author, had the opportunity to play against each other, showcasing the sport of wheelchair basketball.
Former STRAPS athlete Elicia Meairs, 19, played for the program for six years. Meairs was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
“Wheelchair sports have been life-changing for me. They’ve given me confidence, independence, and a sense of community. Sports have taught me discipline and perseverance, helping me understand that my disability doesn’t limit my ability to achieve greatness,” Meairs said.
“When I’m playing, I look forward to the camaraderie and teamwork. There’s nothing better than being on that court, sharing laughs and victories with teammates who understand the challenges we all face. It’s also empowering to showcase what adaptive athletes are capable of, especially to audiences who may not know about adaptive sports,” Meairs said.
Meairs shared how STRAPS has impacted her and other athletes. STRAPS isn’t just an organization; it’s a family. She then mentioned how it is a privilege to be able to return with the team.
Before concluding the interview, Meairs expressed how it felt to play on a college basketball court. She talked about how incredible it felt to be on a court where traditional athletes play.
“Feeling the energy from the crowd and seeing their reactions was unforgettable. It reminded me of what I love to do,” Meairs said.
