Edmonds Community College’s wheelchair basketball team, The Rolling Tritons, takes on students and staff in a demonstration match 7 p.m., Friday, April 13 at the college’s Seaview Gym.

The Wheelchair Basketball Club and Team started in January 2006. The club, which is sponsored by Student Programs, currently has more than 30 members, 10 of whom are active players. The club’s goal is to raise awareness of the sport and to provide people of all abilities the opportunity to compete and gain leadership skills, improve health and garner new friendships.

“The club promotes good sportsmanship with a fun vibe,” says Gerard Ah-Fook, the team’s coach and an Edmonds Community College student.

In 1999, he nearly lost his life in a debilitating accident. He now uses a wheelchair. Playing basketball gives him a physical outlet and he’s become a positive role model and mentor as an athlete.

The team joined the National Wheelchair Basketball Association in 2006. They played in a Division Tournament March 3-4 in Las Vegas. Their goal is to play in as many tournaments as possible and pick up sponsorships to cover traveling costs. To stay in the league, they must play 10 games per season (three tournaments). With each competition, the Rolling Tritons’ reputation grows.

Off the court, the players are mentors and tutors. Each member does at least an hour of community service each week.

“There is definitely a need for the mentorship,” Ah-Fook said. “We encourage everyone to take the extra step and help others.” Members of the club ultimately inspire themselves as well as others, he said.

The $5 admission price includes a T-shirt while supplies last. A silent auction during the game supports the Services for Students with Disabilities Scholarship Fund.

Meet the team members and learn about the sport at 12:30 p.m., Monday April 9 at Triton Union Building room 202.

Purchase tickets for the game in the Office of Student Life (Triton Union 108) and Services for Students with Disabilities center (Mountlake Terrace 159) or at the door. For more information call Services for Students with Disabilities at 425-640-1320, TTY 425-774-8669 or e-mail ssdmail@edcc.edu or go to www.edcc.edu/ssd.