KENDALL Tennis Club’s Janel Manns has been selected in the Australian Paralympic team, after trading in wheelchair basketball for tennis in 2005.
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Manns will compete at her first Paralympic Games, joining forces with Daniela Di Toro in the women’s doubles, and will also compete in the singles competition.
Head coach Greg Crump sang Manns’ praises when the team was named yesterday.
“Janel has been great in the prelude to the 2012 games, and she has definitely earned her spot,” he said.
“She is a talented player and should make the most of
her first Paralympic experience.”
Wheelchair tennis is open to athletes with a physical disability,
It follows the same rules as able-bodied tennis, with the sole exception that the ball is allowed to bounce twice.
Singles and doubles events are held, with the first to win two sets declared the winner.
The London 2012 Paralympic Games begin on August 29, and run until September 9.
Di Toro is the most experienced wheelchair tennis player, and will compete in her fifth games.
Australia has won nine medals in wheelchair tennis one gold, four silver and three bronze – since it was introduced at the Barcelona games in 1992.
Australian Paralympic Committee CEO Jason Hellwig said the team is capable of adding to that tally.
“Wheelchair tennis is one of the most exciting sports on the Paralympic program, for the players as well as the spectators,” Hellwig said.
“The quality of competition is exceedingly good.
“We have a good mix of experience on this team, with half heading to their first Paralympics.”