We are pleased to announce the members of our newly formed Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby Community Commission. These individuals were selected through our open recruitment process, and we would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who took the time to apply.
The Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby (GBWR) Community Commission has been established to represent the voices of the wheelchair rugby community, including players, coaches, and volunteers. The Commission will provide valuable insight, highlight challenges and opportunities, and support the strategic development of the sport across Great Britain.
Objectives of the Commission
- Ensure community perspectives are integrated into GBWR’s decision-making processes
- Promote inclusivity, diversity, and equity within wheelchair rugby
- Act as a conduit between the wheelchair rugby community and the GBWR Board and Senior Leadership Team (SLT)
- Identify and advise on key issues affecting the community
- Support the growth and long-term sustainability of wheelchair rugby
Jason Brisbane, CEO of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby, will serve as Chair of the Community Commission. Paula Sage, Head of Community and Participation, will support the Commission in its work. The involvement of our CEO and Senior Leadership Team ensures a direct and trusted link to the community, helping to ensure that decisions are informed by individuals who genuinely represent and understand the wider wheelchair rugby landscape.
The Commission has already begun its work, including providing early feedback on our new competition strategy and contributing valuable perspectives to its development.
Meet the Members
Omar Foster – Brighton Wheelchair Rugby
“I’m passionate about helping to close the gap between leadership and players. Recently, there has felt like a disconnect, and my goal is to bring everyone together so we can move in the same direction and continue to grow the sport we all love. There are so many positive stories across the community that deserve to be shared, and I want to ensure they are heard. I am also committed to supporting greater diversity and inclusion within wheelchair rugby.”
Megan Fearnley – Penrith Wheelchair Rugby
“I’m Megan Fearnley, Founder and Club Manager of Penrith Pumas Wheelchair Rugby. Since launching the Pumas in 2020, I’ve grown the club from a grassroots idea into a thriving community hub and a catalyst for accessible sport across Cumbria. My leadership is shaped by lived experience, creativity, and a deep commitment to inclusion.
I joined the GBWR Community Commission because I want to bridge the gap between high-level strategic decisions and their real-world impact on clubs, players, volunteers, and families. I care about helping people understand not only what decisions are made, but why they matter—where they shape confidence, belonging, and opportunity.
I am also driven by a bold operational vision: for every reablement service, physiotherapy team, NHS and private hospital, and community health provider to understand what wheelchair rugby is and how to get people involved. By building pathways rooted in local communities—supported by visibility, belief, and genuine inclusion—we can broaden access to the sport.”
Sarah Burrows– Penrith Wheelchair Rugby
“I am a Wheelchair Rugby 5s player and a member of the GBWR Community Commission. Both through sport and in my everyday life, I am passionate about creating environments where people with disabilities feel seen, heard, and truly valued.”
Paul Shaw – Cheltenham Tigers Wheelchair Rugby
“With 33 years of experience playing and competing in wheelchair rugby, I bring a conscientious, approachable, and professional perspective. I have witnessed and contributed to the sport’s journey from its grassroots beginnings to gaining recognition on the world stage.
In addition to my playing career, I have served as a secretary, treasurer, and coach for various clubs, which has provided me with valuable insight into effective club management. My passion for wheelchair rugby runs deep, and I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to a team dedicated to shaping the sport’s future.”
Helen Thompson – Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Rugby
“I am an active member of the wheelchair rugby community as a player, coach, and official across multiple formats, including 3s and 5s. This involvement allows me to hear a wide range of perspectives and understand the current experiences of community members.
I joined the Commission to help ensure that people’s voices are heard and to foster greater inclusion across the sport. I am passionate about continuing to grow and develop wheelchair rugby as we look ahead to LA 2028 and beyond.”
The GBWR Community Commission will meet quarterly with their next meeting on the 22nd September 2026.
