My Edmond Outlook: Taylor Hukill
Name: Taylor Hukill, AthleteTell us about yourself. What sports do you like to play?
Well, I’m in 4th grade at Westfield Elementary in Edmond. I’ve been competing in adaptive track & field for four years and wheelchair basketball for two years. My mom and dad are Ryan and Brooke Hukill and I’m one of five kids. We’re a family full of athletes. I just play sports a little differently.
Can you tell us why you’re in a wheelchair?
This is the way that God made me…I was born with Spina Bifida, which keeps me from walking but doesn’t keep me from running you over with my wheels, so watch out cause I’m fast!
I was at a car show and a family spotted me in my wheelchair. They have a son in a wheelchair so they came over and just started telling us about the GODSA organization. That’s when I started competing in track & field. And two years ago, I started playing basketball.
What is GODSA?
The Greater Oklahoma Disability Sports Association exists to develop, sponsor and promote recreational and competitive athletic opportunities for individuals with physical challenges. You can also visit www.GODSA.org to learn more.
Are these wheelchairs modified for sports?
Yes, most adaptive sports require a unique chair designed specifically for that sport, which makes for a packed garage at home. My parents tease me that I need my own garage. We currently have a field chair, a track chair, a basketball chair and a special bike called an AmTryke, so I can ride bikes with my brothers and friends. Then, of course, I have my everyday chair.
No, so far, we’re the only team here, so we travel to surrounding states to play other teams in our division. We currently have qualified for Nationals, so we’re all very excited about going to Colorado Springs in March!
Any short or long term goals?
Right now I’m working towards my first one mile race and then a 5k with my mom and sister. One day I’d like to get a college scholarship to play basketball.
What advice do you have for other young athletes?
No matter what anyone tells you, if you want to do something, find a way!
Are there other wheelchair basketball teams in the metro to play?
How did you get started in Wheelchair Basketball and how long have you been playing?
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