Joy Haizelden is an inspiring British wheelchair basketball player who has made significant strides in the world of adaptive sports. Born on December 1, 1998, in China, Joy was abandoned outside an orphanage and later adopted by a loving British couple, Jim and Margaret Haizelden, in 2005. Growing up in Southampton, Hampshire, Joy discovered her love for wheelchair basketball when her father sought ways to keep her active and engaged in sports. At just 15 years old, Joy made history as the youngest player to represent Great Britain at the 2014 Women’s World Wheelchair Basketball Championship, where the team achieved its best-ever finish. Her dedication and talent quickly set her apart, earning her accolades like the Peter Jackson Young Female Player of the Year and helping Team GB secure numerous medals, including gold at the Women’s U25 Wheelchair Basketball World Championship. As a classified 2.5 point player, Joy has continued to excel on the international stage, recently competing in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, all while pursuing her PhD. Her journey is one of resilience, determination, and empowerment, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, listeners will gain insight into Joy’s remarkable journey, discovering how she overcame adversity and used her experiences to fuel her passion for sport and academic excellence. Joy's story is not only about athletic achievement; it’s a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of following one’s dreams. Tune in to be inspired by her message of empowerment and to learn how she continues to break barriers in wheelchair basketball and beyond! Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Being born in China and growing up in an orphanageBeing adopted by a British familyMoving to the UK at age 6Learning English within 6 monthsTransitioning to a new language and cultureFacing challenges in physical education at her schoolDiscovering wheelchair basketball with encouragement from her fatherFinding a supportive communityHer first experience in specialised wheelchair basketballEnjoying the physical and social aspects of the sportExplaining the rules of wheelchair basketballThe classifications for disability levelsThe importance of team strategy with point-based player selectionStarting wheelchair basketball at age 12-13Being invited to a senior national team camp at 15Youngest player for GB at the 2014 Women's World Wheelchair Basketball Championships in TorontoReflecting on the honour and excitement of representing her country at such a young ageBeginning to see the possibility of playing at a higher level, aiming for the Rio ParalympicsMoving to Worcester for a centralised programme with the GB teamReceiving sponsorship from the National LotteryThe hectic schedule of training five days a week and managing schoolJoy's experience of the Rio ParalympicsRecalling her parents attending the games, which was a significant moment for herThe multi-sport event experience and the impact of being part of such a large eventImpact of COVID-19 on Tokyo ParalympicsThe increased focus on mental well-being and support from sports psychologistsHer personal experiences and strategies for managing stress and resiliencePursuing a PhD in health, education, and promotion at The University of AlabamaBalancing her PhD studies with playing basketballThe challenges of managing both academic and athletic responsibilitiesTeam dynamics and rolesThe Tokyo Paralympics atmosphereDeciding to move to Alabama for PhD and basketballCollegiate wheelchair basketball in the USCultural adjustments and international friendshipsHow their PhD programme allows them to balance their academic and athletic pursuitsThe challenges of managing her PhD and being part of the GB teamThe need for careful time management due to frequent GB team eventsThe difficulties she faced travelling as a disabled personManaging to balance her commitments and participate in international tournaments despite challengesReflecting on their experience at the Paris Games, where they finished 4thFeeling disappointed at not winning a medalThe team's performance as the second-best in women's wheelchair basketball historyUndecided on the 2028 LA Games, but evaluating performance and team dynamicsDealing with disappointment and moving forwardFinal words of advice Social Media Instagram: @...
