Check out the things to look forward to over the coming year in the world of sports for people with physical disabilities.

The return of the IWAS World Games 

Like many sports organisations, the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS) was forced to cancel the World Games in 2020 and 2021. But it will be back in action at the next edition later on in the year. The location and dates are expected soon.

The Games are renowned for being a springboard for many of the world’s most successful Paralympians. With Paris 2024 less than two years away, Sochi 2022 is expected to help produce the next generation of stars.

The Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games

The stage is set for winter Paralympians to take to the ice and snow in China from 4-13 March. Medals for athletes with physical impairments are up for grabs in all six sports.

Do not miss the incredible sitting and standing alpine skiers who reach eye-watering speeds in downhill and super-G, the amputees racing in snowboard and the impressive physical endurance of athletes in cross-country skiing and biathlon. Wheelchair curling is not to be missed as hosts China go for their second consecutive title. And of course, the thrills and spills of Para ice hockey will no doubt deliver some of the top moments of the Paralympics.

A full IWAS Wheelchair Fencing calendar

The schedule of five World Cups and three regional Championships will keep wheelchair fencing fans entertained throughout the year.

Getting underway in Sao Paulo, Brazil, from 14-17 April, the World Cup circuit will take in Italy, Poland, Thailand and Hungary in 2022. Asian Championships in Hangzhou, China, Americas Championships in Sao Paulo and European Championships in Poland, will end the year on a high between October and December.

With fencers also building up to the 2023 World Championships in Terni, Italy, the season is sure to be a good one.

The 2022 IWAS Powerchair Hockey World Championships

The 2022 Worlds will be even more exciting than normal. With 10 teams competing – an increase of two – this special edition gives more countries than ever the chance to play for the title.

All games will be hosted in the Swiss town of Sursee from 7-15 August. The top ranked teams from Europe, the Americas and Oceania are expected. These include defending champions Italy and World No.1 Germany.

IWAS 70^th birthday

In 2022 IWAS celebrates 70 years since the first International Stoke Mandeville Games took place in 1952, a competition which ultimately became the first Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960.

It was organised by the International Stoke Mandeville Games Committee (ISMGC) and was led by the father of the Paralympic Movement, Sir Ludwig Guttmann. The ISMGC would undergo several transformations over the years before becoming IWAS in 2004.

IWAS will be looking back at its history throughout the year to highlight its impact on international Para sport, as well as forwards to its future, culminating at the 2022 IWAS World Games in Sochi.