DOWNEY - The Rancho Renegades, an accomplished wheelchair basketball team comprised of former patients of Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, conducted an on-court demonstration during halftime of the USC-Cal State Fullerton basketball game at the Galen Center on Nov. 24.After an impressive display, including a number of three-point baskets, the team received a standing ovation from the crowd. "This was an awesome experience for our athletes," said Rancho Wheelchair Sports Director Lisa Hilborn. "Many of our athletes will play wheelchair sports at Division I schools, so it was a great incentive for them to continue to work hard in school and prepare themselves to be successful in college." The wheelchair team has distinguished itself on the court, with the Renegades Junior team finishing second in the nation this year. The athletes have also proven to be excellent scholars, graduating from college with both Bachelor and Masters degrees at a rate higher than the general population and 3.5 times higher than the graduation rate of persons with disabilities throughout the nation.

********** Published: December 23, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 36