Car accident victim Naomi Schouten's life may have changed dramatically since that fateful day, but her passion for sport still empowers her.

The Central Queensland University student of Human Movement Science and resident of CQU's Capricornia College in Rockhampton said her life has certainly changed since a devastating car crash left her paraplegic in 2003, but believes her love of life and sport helps her overcome each challenge day by day.

"The accident certainly changed my perspective on life. I have come out of it a much stronger person in spirt and my positive attitude has helped so many others along the way," Naomi explained.

"There are a lot of things I really miss that I could do before my accident, but there's always something else that will come along, like basketball.".

Naomi has just been officially named in the Queensland Ladies Wheelchair Basketball team which will compete in the Avon National Club Championships in Melbourne at the end of October.

"I am really looking forward to this experience, especially playing along side Alison Mosely - Alison has justed returned from the Athens Paralympics as part of the silver medal team.

"There is so much I still have to learn about the game, but what better way than this.".

Naomi hopes that her performance at this meet will hopefully cement her position in the Queensland team for the National Women's League next year. Although a keen sportsperson all her life, Naomi never dreamed of playing basketball before her accident.

"To be honest, I hated basketball. Now I love it!".

Proud of her daughter's achievements, Naomi's mother Lynne Schouten (who works at CQU Gladstone) said her daughter had never turned her back on life, her studies or sport.

"She has been so positive right from the time of the accident and has been an inspiration to many," Lynne explained.

From the age of four Naomi swam competitively, played hockey, soccer, touch football and volleyball and was a keen surfer.

"Surfing is something I miss most, but I still get out on my board when I get the chance and just paddle around. I catch a few waves, but obviously I can't stand up. Maybe one day.".

Naomi's determination and recent successes has also won her a sporting scholarship from Central Queensland University's Student Association which she says will finance her basketball trips.

As well as focusing on the upcoming basketball competition, Naomi is completing her second year in the sport-focused bachelor program at CQU.

"I once wanted to be a PE teacher, but it's not really ideal any more. I'm not sure what I will do after finishing my degree, but it will be something that involves sport.”