The Countess, named as Royal Patron of British Wheelchair Basketball last July, will be the guest of honour at the event due to take place next Wednesday (May 7).

The IZB Finals will see schools from across England compete for the national title in a sport that combines wheelchair and regular basketball.

Players with a physical disability play alongside able-bodied classmates in a four-a-side game that uses zones to match players with similar levels of ability.

A number of regional competitions have taken place over the last few months and each of the winners will now head to Worcester to battle for the national crown.

"We are delighted to welcome the Countess of Wessex to the 2014 National IZB Schools Finals," said British Wheelchair Basketball chairman Malcolm Tarkenter.

"The event continues to be a major breakthrough for disability sport in schools, enabling pupils of all physical abilities to participate alongside one another, and having the Countess attend really recognises this.

"With so many teams taking part once again, it should be a fantastic day for pupils, staff, and spectators.

"I hope that everyone enjoys this immense occasion."

Inclusive Zone Basketball is a mixture of wheelchair and able-bodied basketball for players of all abilities ©Getty Images



The University of Worcester Arena also hosted last year's final which saw Beaumont School from St Albans take the title after defeating Hemsworth Arts & Community College from Pontefract, Yorkshire 12-7 in the gold medal game.

Brunts Academy from Mansfield took the bronze medal after they overcame Kings School from London, 13-5.

"The University of Worcester is delighted to be hosting the IZB National Finals again," said Professor David Green., Vice Chancellor and chief executive of the University of Worcester.

"It is truly inspiring to see so many young people, of all physical abilities, passionately engaged in sport.

"We look forward to welcoming HRH the Countess of Wessex to Worcester to see the inspiring work led by British Wheelchair Basketball of which we are proud to be a part."

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