A Landmark Week for GB Women’s Wheelchair Rugby in Sunderland
Last week, Sunderland became the beating heart of women’s wheelchair rugby as Great Britain and France came together for an unforgettable series of events, blending competition, collaboration, and community.
Tuesday: Global Connections Through Wheelchair Rugby
The week began with a powerful “Come and Try” session at the Beacon of Light, but this was no ordinary introduction to the sport. With representatives from ChildFund Rugby and over 30 nations engaging in wheelchair rugby activities in Sunderland, the session was a celebration of global unity and inclusion.
Participants from diverse backgrounds came together to experience the sport firsthand, sharing stories, building connections, and learning from each other. It was a moment that underscored the universal appeal of wheelchair rugby, a sport that transcends borders and brings people together through shared values.
inspiring women and girls around the world
This international spotlight reflects GBWR’s commitment to growing the game not just across Great Britain, but as part of a broader movement to make wheelchair rugby accessible and inspiring for women and girls around the world.
Wednesday: Training, Teamwork, and International Bonding
Wednesday morning saw focused training sessions for both GB and France, sharpening skills and building team cohesion. But the afternoon was where the magic happened. Players from both nations mixed into four integrated teams, engaging in fast-paced, high-energy games that showcased not just athleticism, but unity.
The atmosphere was electric: laughter, gameplay, and friendships blossomed on and off the court. This was wheelchair rugby at its best: full contact, full power, full focus. A true embodiment of the GBWR Women’s Talent Programme, which aims to build skill, confidence, and community.
Thursday: Double Header Dominance
Thursday delivered two thrilling matches between GB and France:
• Game 1 – 10:30am:
GB came out strong, executing with precision and power to secure a convincing win.
Great Britain 42 – 34 France
• Game 2 – 5:00pm:
The intensity didn’t drop. GB maintained their momentum, dominating the court and clinching another emphatic victory.
Great Britain 47 – 35 France
Fast, physical, and fearless
These matches weren’t just about the scoreboard, they were a showcase of the progress and potential within the GB Women’s squad. Fast, physical, and fearless, the team demonstrated why they’re setting new standards in the sport.
For more detailed coverage, check out Ruck’s reports:
- GB Women’s Wheelchair Rugby Sunderland Showcase Begins with Solid Win Over France
- A New Era Begins: GB Wheelchair Rugby Lands Historic Support for Women’s Team
- Millie Partridge: Meet the Newest Star of GB Wheelchair Rugby’s Women’s Pathway
- Gemma Lumsdaine: GB Wheelchair Rugby Star Sheds Light on Gender Barriers
Friday: Inspiration at the Stadium of Light
To round off the week, the GB squad attended the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, England vs USA at the iconic Stadium of Light. It was a moment of inspiration and celebration, connecting the wheelchair rugby community with the wider rugby world and reinforcing the shared values of resilience, teamwork, and excellence.
Thank You to Our Partners, Supporters, and Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt thanks to UK Sport, our partner whose generous funding made this incredible week possible and continues to support the growth of wheelchair rugby for women and girls across the country.
We are also deeply grateful to the sponsors of our Women and Girls Talent Programme:
- The Hartford – Our principal programme sponsor, whose unwavering support is driving the development of female talent in wheelchair rugby.
- Canterbury – Our official kit sponsor, proudly equipping our athletes with high-performance gear that embodies the strength and spirit of the game.
- Science in Sport (SiS) – Our Official Performance Nutrition Supplier and proud 28 for 28 Supporter, helping our athletes perform at their best.
A special thank you to the Beacon of Light, Sunderland, and to everyone who came out to support, your energy and enthusiasm made this week unforgettable.
Stay tuned for more updates from the GBWR Women’s Talent Programme. The future of wheelchair rugby is bold, brilliant, and just getting started. #ThisGirlCan
