Power Wheelchairs

Final text pending

Players unable to propel a manual wheelchair with their upper or lower extremities are permitted to utilize wheelchairs powered by electric motors. All power wheelchairs must be controlled by the player only and cannot exceed 10 miles-per-hour.

No existing rule

Certain medical conditions can severely limit one’s ability to propel a manual wheelchair. Allowing for the use of power wheelchairs extends the inclusive nature of the game and aligns it with other adaptive sports, wheelchair tennis in particular. Limiting the control and speed of the power wheelchair helps ensure player safety, particularly as it relates to doubles format play. The 10 miles-per-hour threshold is an established standard in wheelchair tennis.

This rule would apply in a scenario in which the player has the ability to strike a ball, but is unable to propel a manual wheelchair with either their upper or lower extremities.