Atlanta VA athletes to compete in National Wheelchair Games with assistance from fellow Veteran

Two disabled veterans from Atlanta will join hundreds of wheelchair athletes at the 43rd National Veterans Wheelchair Games, taking place in New Orleans, Louisiana, from July 25 to 30.

Johnathan Tubbs, a 62-year-old Army cavalry scout Veteran and William Green, a 60-year-old Army and Air Force Veteran will compete in several of the games, which include 23 adaptive sports, such as wheelchair basketball, swimming, cycling, powerlifting, rugby, and soccer. The Veterans will compete for gold, silver and bronze medals based on their performance.

A Veteran of the United States Air Force, was made aware of two athletes needing hotel accommodations for the NVWG, he donated the total cost.   

Green and Tubbs traveled to Douglasville, Georgia to personally thank the Veteran for his contribution. 

While Tubbs has been competing in the games since 2015, Green only got involved about four years ago. "Just because you are in a wheelchair doesn't mean your life is over," Tubbs said. 

"These games are a great opportunity to meet so many interesting people and have fun playing sports," Green added.

Both men agree while winning medals is fun, it's not the main point of the competition.  “It’s not so much about the games as it is about rekindling friendships, relationships, connecting with Veterans from the past, and telling old war stories,” Green said. “If disabled Veterans get involved in the wheelchair games or any other sports – on any level – it will help the body heal. It will help the mind heal. It will help the spirit heal,” Tubbs concluded.

A heartfelt thank you to recreational therapist Nicolas Johnson, for facilitating the connection between our Veterans and the Veteran-owned businesses. Your efforts have made this opportunity possible and are truly appreciated!

For a complete schedule of events and additional information about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, visit www.wheelchairgames.org.