John Burton

AKA JohnnyBee
For the past three decades, I've been immersed in the world of wheelchair basketball, a journey that began at the age of 20 following a life-altering car accident. The incident, which propelled me over 75 feet and resulted in a spinal cord injury, left me paralyzed from just below my chest area down, marked as a T-6 complete Spinal Cord Injury.
During my rehabilitation, a therapist inquired about my interests in sports, and I expressed my love for basketball. Introduced to wheelchair basketball, I became instantly hooked, finding not only a passion for the game but also a community of individuals facing similar challenges. Playing alongside others with shared experiences became a source of joy and a sense of belonging.
Over the years, wheelchair basketball has become a cornerstone of my life, providing a renewed sense of purpose annually. Engaging with familiar faces and meeting new people during games has added a social dimension to the sport. When I roll onto the court, I feel like any other person, transcending the physical constraints of my disability.
My journey as a player has been marked by significant achievements, including 10 All-Star Team Awards, 3 All-Star Tournament Awards, victories in 3-point shooting and free throw contests, and being inducted into the CWBC Hall of Fame in 2017-2018. Additionally, I was part of a team that secured a commendable 2nd place finish in the Nationals in 2008.
Beyond basketball, I've participated in various wheelchair games in SESWA, showcasing my skills in weightlifting, air rifle, archery, shot put, discus, javelin, and bocce ball. Diversifying my interests, I've also been an active member of the local APA league, engaging in Billiards for the past 13 years.
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