Innovation at MLK School Impacts Wheelchair Athletics

Innovation at MLK School Impacts Wheelchair Athletics

How can the captivating game of basketball and its essential skills be effectively taught to newcomers in wheelchair athletics? Robotics are frequently employed in rehabilitation to facilitate the body’s execution of these movements, which in turn retrain the brain. Hailing from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School Complex in Atlantic City, coaches Jason Holmstrom and Russell DiCiccio of the Sandy Squirrels, have reason to be proud as their students have just completed their inaugural season. To aid in their instruction, the team has developed a remarkable robotic teaching tool known as the Basketbot Instructional Handset. This innovative device will serve as a guide, imparting the fundamental skills of dribbling, passing, and shooting to individuals with hemiplegia. The design incorporates a battery-powered pneumatic-based component that will assist in teaching neuromuscular control by ensuring proper hand placement. SJR extends heartfelt congratulations to FLL Challenge team Sandy Squirrels on their successful Rookie season! Undoubtedly, this team possesses a promising future ahead.