As the Texas Stampede wheelchair rugby team gears up for another thrilling season, head coach Gabriel Garcia shared his insights in a recent interview. 

Garcia immediately pointed his excitement this season towards the return of Ray Hennagir. Hennagir, who was a member of the Stampede before the 2020 season, went to Greece for the past few years to play wheelchair basketball. His return will have an immediate impact.  Garcia expressed optimism about the team's prospects moving forward. “As a team, I like where we are,” he stated. “I believe this addition puts us towards the top of the league once again.”

Garcia acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, particularly in securing games against high-quality competition. “Most tournaments are going to be a mix of both D1 and D2 teams,” he noted. He emphasized the importance of early-season teamwork, asserting that if the squad can gel quickly, it will pave the way for success at Nationals. The team's first tournament in Houston is on the horizon, providing a crucial opportunity for them to refine their strategies against a mix of opponents.

Veteran players will play a key role in the Stampede’s journey this season. While Garcia noted that it's hard to pinpoint standout performers, he highlighted the potential of Jared Compton, who has shown significant improvement over the past couple of years. Additionally, he expects Josh Smith to step up, as the young player was integral to last year’s success and is poised for greater contributions this season.

From a coaching perspective, Garcia anticipates several challenges, particularly in maintaining consistency and pushing the team to its limits. His experiences—winning a championship in his first year and then facing defeat in the finals the following year—have provided him with valuable lessons about the competitive landscape of the league. “It will be a challenge to create ways to beat the top-tier teams,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of clear communication with his players.

As the Stampede prepares for an exciting season ahead, the team remains committed to growth and resilience. With Garcia at the helm and a roster filled with experienced athletes, the future looks promising. For more information on the Texas Stampede and their journey, visit www.fearthesteer.org.

In recent years, adaptive sports have emerged as a transformative force for individuals with disabilities, providing opportunities for athleticism and community engagement. One prominent figure in this movement is Bob Murray, head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders Wheelchair Football Team and a staff member for the Texas Stampede. With a rich background in adaptive sports, Murray emphasizes the profound impact these activities have on athletes who have often faced societal limitations and personal challenges.

Murray's journey in adaptive sports began over three decades ago, where he cultivated a deep understanding of the sport's importance beyond competition. He reflects on how the lessons learned from various coaching roles, including his time with Team USA Wheelchair Rugby, shaped his approach to coaching. "It’s not so much about the destination, but the journey itself," he notes, highlighting how adaptive sports can foster personal growth and resilience among athletes. This philosophy resonates deeply with those who have been told they can't participate, allowing them to discover their potential.

The challenges faced by teams in the adaptive sports landscape are significant but not insurmountable. According to Murray, the key lies in community support and effective recruitment strategies. The Las Vegas Raiders benefit from backing by the City of Las Vegas Adaptive Sports Division, along with essential funding from organizations like Move United. Such support allows the team to flourish, creating an environment where athletes can thrive and build camaraderie, further enhancing their overall experience.

Murray’s team embodies a commitment to excellence, deeply connected to the NFL’s values. Wearing the Raider shield while competing serves as a constant reminder of their dedication and the legacy they are part of. This connection to a larger football community helps to inspire athletes, reminding them that they are not only competing in a sport but also part of a historic tradition. "It embodies a commitment to excellence that we strive to achieve," he says, reinforcing the pride that comes with being part of the Raider Nation. That pride will be on display as the Raiders host some of the top teams from around the country for a tournament in October. 

The game of wheelchair football itself adapts traditional football to create an inclusive environment. Utilizing cambered sports chairs designed for contact, teams compete in a format similar to flag football. Players tackle using a one-hand touch, ensuring that the game remains dynamic and engaging. Murray notes that this adaptation allows athletes to showcase their skills while participating in a sport that many thought was out of reach due to their disabilities.

Beyond the field, the most rewarding moments for Murray come from witnessing the personal growth of his athletes. The challenges they face often extend beyond sports, impacting their daily lives. "Coaching extends beyond the pitch; it’s about supporting and guiding our athletes in their everyday lives," he emphasizes. The team's motto, "Win the Day," encapsulates the ethos of perseverance and continuous improvement, both in athletics and in life, demonstrating how adaptive sports can redefine what's possible for individuals who have faced adversity. As the upcoming tournament approaches, the community is invited to witness firsthand the powerful transformations taking place in the world of adaptive sports.

For more information  about Bob Murray and the Texas stampede go to www.fearthesteer.org