The University of Houston wheelchair tennis team clinches national championship

University of Houston Wheelchair Tennis Team Clinches National Championship

The University of Houston’s wheelchair tennis team made history by winning the 2024 ITA National Wheelchair Tennis Team Championship. Led by head coach Gabriel Gutierrez, the team of Jose Arriaga and Nicholas Tijerina secured the national title in a thrilling final match.

Arriaga, a mainstay in the community program for a decade, and Tijerina, who fell in love with the sport in 2021, formed a formidable duo on the court. Despite being outnumbered by other universities, the Houston Cougars emerged victorious, showcasing their determination and skill.

The victory marked a major milestone for the Adaptive Athletics program at the university, which provides opportunities for people with disabilities in the Houston area to participate in sports. The program, spearheaded by Michael Cottingham, focuses on not only athletic development but also personal growth for its participants.

The collegiate national championship win has brought recognition to the program and its impact on the community. Cottingham hopes to expand the program’s offerings, including sponsoring power soccer and providing more scholarships for wheelchair tennis players.

The team’s success has inspired fundraising efforts to provide national championship rings as a symbol of their achievement. The victory has not only brought pride to the university but also highlighted the potential for growth and success in adaptive sports programs.