Sororities Roll into Action at SU’s Wheelchair Basketball Tournament

CNY Adaptive Sports brought energy, awareness, and a whole lot of fun to the Barnes Center on Saturday as part of Syracuse University’s Disability Pride Month. The nonprofit teamed up with the Panhellenic Council and the Disability Cultural Center to host the OrangeAbility Wheelchair Basketball Tournament — a high-spirited event that welcomed 11 sororities, plus a team from the Panhellenic Council, into wheelchairs for a unique twist on the classic game.

The tournament was more than just a competition — it was an opportunity to introduce students to adaptive sports and highlight the experiences of athletes with disabilities. Participants got firsthand experience maneuvering sport wheelchairs, learning just how much strength, coordination, and strategy is involved. The goal was simple: bring awareness to disability sports and create an inclusive space for everyone to play.

CNY Adaptive Sports had a whole crew of volunteers at the SU event, including (front l to r) Bob Prenoveau, Erik Ryan, Eric Komar, Cody Arnold; (top l to r) Casey Favata, Daniel Seth Gitner. (Submitted Photo)

CNY Adaptive Sports board member and Newhouse Professor Seth Gitner helped organize the event, which included music, snacks, and a raffle full of popular prizes like Stanley Cups and branded clothing. While Delta Delta Delta took home the win after a close final with Alpha Epsilon Phi, the overall vibe of the day was more about camaraderie, celebration, and getting people talking.

The event was just the beginning. CNY Adaptive Sports will return to Syracuse University throughout April with more events, including wheelchair basketball sessions for university classes, quad rugby on April 15, and additional activities on April 22 and 26 at the Barnes Center.