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Local non-profit hosts wheelchair basketball tournament, honors legacy

JACKSONVILLE, Fla — A local rehabilitation center hosted its first junior wheelchair basketball tournament this weekend.

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Athletes from ages six-to-18 competed in this inaugural tournament.

“Pretty nervous, but also excited,” said Brooks BullSharks player Linna Heck.

Brooks Rehabilitation, a local non-profit, brought kids together with a similar passion for an inaugural junior wheelchair basketball tournament.

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This first ever junior tournament gave kids an opportunity to do more than play.

“Just like having fun and having a good mood to it, you know,” said Heck.

But the Borne To Play tournament goes beyond the court.

“My dad, he passed away, August of 2021,” said Christian Borne, Jr.

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It’s named after Christian Borne, Sr., a physical therapist at Brooks for 20 years, who passed away unexpectedly.

His son Christian, Jr. is honoring his legacy as their family remains part of Brooks’ sports community.

A community growing from passion and drive from families and players.

“The teamwork and learning about your team and kind of growing with your team,” said Brooks BullSharks player Liam Austin.

And regardless of wins or losses this weekend, Christian, Jr. said it’s about having fun.

“That’s what my dad would want,” said Christian, Jr. “That’s really what he would want for everyone to just have a good time.”

Related read: Brooks Rehabilitation hosting first Junior Wheelchair Basketball Tournament this weekend

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