As we draw the curtains on an eventful and inspiring year, GB Wheelchair Rugby takes a moment to look back at the milestones, partnerships, and unforgettable moments that have defined our journey in 2023. This year has been a testament to the resilience, dedication, and passion that embody our sport and its community.
We launched a partnership with Socios.com earlier this year, supporting our strategy to grow the sport and raise the profile of wheelchair rugby. You may have already seen our early collaborations featuring Socios.com ambassador Jermaine Jenas and partners Harlequins and Saracens – look out for more collaborative content in the New Year!
The fantastic Shaunagh Brown joined us an ambassador for the sport and has helped create some fantastic content around mental health.
We delivered our first wheelchair rugby corporate day since returning to play post COVID with our partner Tokio Marine Kiln. The intensity of the competition increased each match and we were glad everyone came away from the day smiling with a greater appreciation for the talent of our athletes, and the lives that they live.
In May, we had the honour of hosting the incredible European Championship at the prestigious Principality Stadium, marking a historic moment for wheelchair rugby. The spotlight shone brightly on our sport as we showcased the exhilarating action and competitive spirit of wheelchair rugby within the grandeur of a stadium setting. The event was a resounding success, serving as a milestone in promoting inclusivity and raising the profile of our beloved sport to a new level. Following the Euros, we launched our five-year strategy with the Welsh Rugby Union and Disability Spot Wales to develop and grow wheelchair rugby in Wales.
The summer saw several of our partners and GB players get together for a day of clay pigeon shooting at the West London Shooting School. The day was hosted by Kate and George Digweed MBE under extremely hot weather conditions. It was a fantastic day which raised funds for GBWR. I’d like to say a huge thank you to the Digweeds, and Roger and Heather Alwen for all the work that went into putting that day on for us.
Our league partnership with Allied Mobility has been a pivotal step forward in our quest to enhance awareness and participation in wheelchair rugby. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to breaking down barriers and creating more opportunities for athletes, enthusiasts, and communities to engage with our sport. Together with Allied Mobility, we continue to strive towards a more accessible and inclusive future for all.
The launch of our ‘28 for 28’ campaign has been met with tremendous enthusiasm and support. This groundbreaking initiative aims to bring together 28 partners, each playing a crucial role in supporting our journey to the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics. The collective strength and determination displayed by our partners reaffirm our shared vision of success on the global stage. Our in-person launch event will be held in February 2024 at the offices of our long-term partner Ascot. Ascot have been a fantastic supporter of GBWR and continue to support us to achieve more. More information can be found here, or contact us at 28for28@gbwr.org.uk .
Heartfelt gratitude to our community champions
As we reflect on the year’s achievements, we extend our deepest gratitude to every individual who has contributed to the success and growth of GB Wheelchair Rugby. Our players, coaches, volunteers, support staff, GBWR team members, sponsors, advocates, and ambassadors have been the backbone of our progress. Your unwavering support, dedication, and passion have propelled us forward, and we are incredibly grateful for your invaluable contributions.
We would especially like to thank our long-term supporters: Get Kids Going!, RFU, WRU, Ascot, Tokio Marine Kiln, RMA, WRCT, Hogan Lovells, Sport England, and UK Sport.
Looking ahead to 2024: a year of promise and progress
As we step into 2024, we anticipate an exhilarating Paralympic year filled with excitement and opportunities for our athletes. Simultaneously, we are committed to developing our grassroots game and enhancing event presentation to elevate wheelchair rugby to unprecedented levels. Together, we will continue to innovate, inspire, and empower our community while nurturing the next generation of athletes.
In closing, we embark on the new year with unwavering determination, gratitude for our achievements, and a steadfast commitment to the growth and success of GB Wheelchair Rugby.
Thank you for being a part of our incredible journey.
Sincerely,
GB Wheelchair Rugby
