Wheelchair rugby no tame game

It is a game known to change lives. It is also said to be the fastest-growing wheelchair sport in the world.

Quad rugby, a competitive, hard-hitting game, has more than 35 organized teams in the United States and close to 20 international teams.. Local residents will get to see the action up close when athletes from throughout the United States and Canada compete Friday through Sunday in the 2009 Coloplast International Quad Rugby Tournament at the All People's Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa.

Since the tournament's inception in 1992, it has grown from six to 12 teams that represent more than 10 countries. The Tampa event will feature eight teams, including the Canadian squad that has its eye on becoming a Paralympics team.

Tournament director Justin Stark also plays for the Tampa Generals, which is ranked No. 7 among U.S. quad rugby teams.

Stark, 31, was 10 when he was paralyzed in a shooting incident. He wanted to fight the stereotype of someone who could not meet the physical challenges of such a tough sport.

When he and his teammates are out on the court, he defies anyone in the stands to label them as "disabled."

"It kind of takes me away from being in the minority and gives me the opportunity to be competitive," Stark said. "We're up against highly skilled athletes that play year-round."

Andy Chasanoff, coordinator of Paralympic Sport Tampa Bay - a program of the Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department based at the All People's center - is proud to be involved in the event.

"For us it's a great opportunity to host a Paralympics-style event and it allows the community to view some exceptional athletes," he said.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: The Coloplast International Quad Rugby Tournament

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday

WHERE: All People's Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa

COST: Free

INFORMATION: 1-800-955-8544