Defence the key to win NAS Wheelchair Basketball Championship, says UAE’s Bedwawi

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Dubai Club for People of Determination trainee Jamal Al Bedwawi, representing Dubai Police General Command, was thrilled to reach the finals of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament and said that defence and teamwork will be the keys for his team on its way to lifting the coveted Wheelchair Basketball Championship title.

Bedwawi, who is also a key member of the UAE national team, is a vital member of the team, playing in the playmaker position.

"The focus will be on our defence. We have some strong players in the team, and if we work together towards the goal, we will succeed. Our goal is to win the gold," Bedwawi said after Dubai Police defeated Roads and Transport Authority 32-20 in the first semi-finals on Friday night.

Both the teams started on an even note before Dubai Police dominated in the second quarter to reach closer to their goal— winning the title.

The promising player, who started his sports career as a football player in Hatta Club from 2001–2012, also highlighted that this year’s NAS tournament had the best even playing field with entities fielding balanced teams.

"Every year, the tournament has grown in terms of competition, players; and popularity among fans. The interest of government entities has also increased, which is a good sign for the sport in the UAE and beyond. Competition wise, this year has been the best with level-playing teams. I hope I can help my team take the trophy on Sunday," added Badwawi, who had represented Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for the last three years.

Meanwhile, Badwawi’s team-mate Ashraf Abuzed, who has the most goals in the event after netting 20, is also aiming for a gold medal for his team.

"I am very proud to score so many goals for the Dubai Police team. I hope my effort can help my team take the gold medal," said the Egyptian Abuzed, who has also played for Egypt's national team in the past.

Abuzed, who has won a gold medal with the Khorfakkan team, has been playing in the NAS tournament for eight long years, while he has been playing wheelchair basketball for 25 long years. He believes he could use his experience to guide his team to success. "I enjoy playing this event; there are players with different styles of play, and it’s more fun."

Dubai Police General Command will next meet the winner between Dubai Ambulance and Al Bustan Center and Residence in the other semi-finals.

The final will be held on Sunday in the hall of the Nad Al Sheba Complex, while the two losers of the semi-finals will meet for third place.