Chicago Wheelchair Bulls

Alumni

Don Vandello, #41

Don Vandello was the first member of the Wheelchair Bulls to be inducted into the National Wheelchair Basketball Association Hall Of Fame. Vandello is the best player to ever come out of Chicago. Playing both the guard and forward positions, he has won countless awards including MVP of 1979 National Tournament, All-American awards, all-conference and all-tournament, etc.

Vandello was the leading scorer on the team and has been for over a decade. Vandello is a 19 time member of the USA teams and has collected 13 medals including 6 gold. Vandello also had a great career in track and field. He was at one time the fastest wheelchair athlete in the world. He was the first athlete to break the 6 minute mile (in the 1970's). Vandello's hometown is Walworth Wisconsin where he lives with his wife Mikel. She is one of the best women players in the U.S. She has been on 6 USA teams. Vandello also has two sons and owns his own plumbing supply business.