COLORADO SPRINGS, CO. — The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) is proud to announce a new Strategic Alliance with Positive Athlete, expanding national recognition, scholarship access, and leadership development opportunities for high school-age wheelchair basketball athletes across the country. 

This partnership reinforces the NWBA’s commitment to providing meaningful pathways for youth athletes to achieve their full potential—both on and off the court. Positive Athlete shares this vision by celebrating student-athletes who exemplify character, leadership, resilience, and service. 

Positive Athlete has recognized more than 72,000 student-athletes across all 50 states, awarding over $600,000 in scholarships since its inception. The program recently expanded nationally and now offers a free digital platform for nominees that include resume-building tools, career development resources, and ongoing leadership opportunities.  

“Positive Athlete is thrilled to enter into a Strategic Alliance with the National Wheelchair Basketball Association,” said Scott Pederson, Founder & CEO of Positive Athlete. “We want to recognize, empower, and connect every high school age student-athlete across America for the character they exhibit that transcends their sport. This includes the amazing adaptive athletes across our country that inspire and make an impact on their communities. We believe that the athlete journey serves a dual purpose for life and career success. This aligns perfectly with the NWBA's view that wheelchair basketball is more than a sport—and is a pathway to health, identity, belonging, and opportunity.” 

Across the NWBA’s Junior Division, many athletes and coaches already embody what it means to be a Positive Athlete. They serve their communities, uplift their teammates, persevere through challenges, and grow into leaders who set the standard for excellence. 

“This alliance allows us to recognize the incredible young leaders within our sport on a national stage,” said Mike Bauler, NWBA Junior Division Commissioner. “Wheelchair basketball athletes aren’t just competitors—they’re mentors, advocates, and role models in their schools, communities, and teams. This partnership gives them the visibility and support they deserve.”