Bay City Thunder & Lightning
Approaching the start of their 13th season, the CRI sponsored wheelchair basketball team, "Thunder & Lightning", is one of 68 Division III teams currently participating in the Keystone Conference of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA).
Historically, the highlight of the team came during their 2000-2001 season, when the team won their first ever Keystone Conference title under the coaching of Executive Director, Timothy J. Finegan.
Since the beginning, the Thunder & Lightning has been comprised of players ranging from 17 to 55 years of age and with a wide range of disabilities. Practices start in September and are held every Tuesday. League games begin in late September and are generally played each weekend through the month of February.
The mission of the Bay City Thunder & Lightning is twofold. First, the team is continually striving to enhance the Erie community's awareness of the unique talents of persons with disabilities. Secondly, the team hopes to provide a greater sense of equality and unity within the community.
The Thunder & Lightning provides participants an excellent social mechanism providing the opportunity to meet and compete against teams from other cities and states. Currently, a number of the players have collegiate-level playing experience and are always willing to teach newcomers the skills. Anyone interested in becoming involved with the Bay City Thunder & Lightning is encouraged to contact CRI's Information & Referral Specialist at (814) 838-7222 or toll free at (800) 530-5541.
