Eithen Leard, an 18-year-old wheelchair basketball player from Westside Christian College in Goodna, is on track to represent Australia at the upcoming 2024 Paris Paralympics.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in Leard’s inspiring journey, which began when he was just three years old.
Born with a spinal cord deformity, Leard’s family moved from Mackay to Brisbane in search of better opportunities for their son. It was in Auchenflower, Brisbane, where a young Eithen first witnessed a wheelchair basketball match, igniting a passion that would shape his future.
Leard’s determination and skill quickly set him apart in the sport. At 12, he served as a Commonwealth Games baton bearer in Ipswich, a moment that reinforced his desire to change perceptions about people with disabilities. His rapid rise through the ranks caught national attention, leading to his debut with the Australian national team at just 17 years old.
Now, as a student and a 2.0 classification player for the Southern Districts Spartans in the National Wheelchair Basketball League, Leard is focused on his Paralympic dream. His journey from Westside Christian College in Goodna to the international stage is a testament to his perseverance and talent.
Leard’s philosophy reflects his broader aspirations for the sport: “I want to be someone that leads the normalisation of high-level disability sports,” he says. “You get opportunities to travel the world if you work hard, the same as if you play able-bodied basketball.”
His recent performances have been crucial in Australia’s Paralympic qualification. Leard was part of the Rollers team that secured gold at the 2024 IWBF Asia-Oceania Championships in Thailand, earning their spot at the Paris Games.
In the Paralympics, Leard and the Rollers will face tough opposition in Group B, with matches against the Netherlands on 30 August at 5:30 a.m., Spain on 30 August at 8:45 p.m., and the U.S. on 1 September at 6:30 p.m.
All eyes will be on this young athlete from Goodna, whose journey from local courts to the world stage serves as an inspiration to many in the community and beyond.
With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.
Published 14-August-2024
