Former Humboldt Broncos player competes in wheelchair basketball in Medicine Hat

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“It’s definitely harder than it looks,” he said.

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“Trying to shoot while seated, and trying to make plays, and knowing what you’re capable of based on your ability is something that I’m always continuing to learn from.”

Trying his hand at sledge hockey for a few years, he now wants to focus on being able to compete in the Paralympics for wheelchair basketball.

‘Always open to new experiences, and just having fun,’ said Straschnitzki. Jayk Sterkenburg/CHAT News

Straschnitzki said that sledge hockey is a sport with no classification, whereas with wheelchair basketball it is a more leveled out playing field.

This gives him the opportunity and edge to develop in his class.

He said that when he first got into the sport, because he uses a wheelchair everyday otherwise, he thought he’d be a natural at it.

He said that because of the speed, contact, and how smart some people play, however, it’s a whole other world.

“Training with national team guys in Calgary, they have so much experience that I’m just trying to soak it in,” he said.

Straschnitzki said that this weekend, the team played their first game together, but it was a learning experience and he hopes everyone has fun.

He said that seeing other adaptive athletes out there, and watching them try to reach their goals is incredible, and that he is inspired by it.

He encourages those who are interested in accessible sports to reach out to local organizations, such as the city’s own MHASR.

He said, playing the sport, he hopes to inspire others as well.

“I love coming out and trying new things for myself, to see how far I can go,” he said.

“If that in turn helps inspire others, and individuals, I’m just excited for them,” he added.

“I want them to go out and try new things, experience what life has to offer. It’s a very short time, and I think it’s important to do as many things as you can.”