Wheelchair Rugby Season Kicks Off in Style at Stoke Mandeville
The 2025/26 wheelchair rugby season launched with a bang at the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium, as eight teams battled it out in the first Allied Mobility Wheelchair Rugby Division Two tournament of the year. Across two action-packed days (4–5 October), fans were treated to fierce competition, tactical brilliance, and unforgettable moments.
Final Showdown: Burn vs Leicester Tigers Swifts
The tournament climaxed with a thrilling final between West Coast Burn and Leicester Tigers Swifts. Both teams exchanged leads multiple times in a nail-biting contest that had spectators on the edge of their seats. In the end, Burn edged out the Swifts by a single point.
Missed the final?
You can watch the full match now on our YouTube channel and experience every hit, turnover, and try from this unforgettable game.
Final Standings
| Position | Team |
|---|---|
| 1st | West Coast Burn |
| 2nd | Leicester Tigers Swifts |
| 3rd | London Crusaders |
| 4th | Stoke Mandeville Maulers |
| 5th | Cheltenham Tigers (Seconds) |
| 6th | Ospreys WRC |
| 7th | North East Udders |
| 8th | Caledonian Crushers |
Results Round-Up
Group Stage Highlights
- West Coast Burn dominated Group B, scoring 65 against Caledonian Crushers and 59 against Stoke Mandeville Maulers.
- Leicester Tigers Swifts topped Group A with wins over Ospreys WRC, London Crusaders, and Cheltenham Tigers (Seconds).
- London Crusaders and Stoke Mandeville Maulers showed strong form to reach the semi-finals.
Semi-Finals
- Leicester Tigers Swifts powered past Stoke Mandeville Maulers (81–30).
- West Coast Burn edged out London Crusaders (51–45).
Bronze Match
- London Crusaders secured third place with a convincing 59–34 win over the Maulers.
Placement Games
- Cheltenham Tigers (Seconds) beat Caledonian Crushers 48–10.
- Ospreys WRC overcame North East Udders 54–34.
Best in Class – WRD2T1
The opening tournament of the season wasn’t just about team glory; it was also a showcase of individual excellence across all classifications. These athletes stood out for their impact, leadership, and performance:
0.5 – Matt “Batman” Badman – Cheltenham Tigers
1.0 – Dan Kellett – West Coast Burn
1.5 – Elliott Cooper – Caledonian Crushers
2.0 – Joel Saunders – London Crusaders
2.5 – Josh Williams – West Coast Burn
3.0 – Nichola Charlton – Leicester Tigers Swifts
3.5/4.0 – Sabrin Meyzinev – Cheltenham Tigers
Science in Sport MVP
Josh Tudge – North East Udders
Awarded for his outstanding performance and influence throughout the weekend.
A Huge Thank You
Weekends like these don’t happen without an incredible team behind the scenes. To the referees, officials, volunteers, coaches, mechanics, supporters, friends, and family; thank you for your time, energy, and passion. You help make these events unforgettable.
A special thank you to Stoke Mandeville Stadium for hosting us and providing a world-class venue that continues to be the beating heart of para sport in the UK.
You make the magic happen. We see you. We appreciate you.
A Season of Opportunity
This tournament marks the beginning of a season packed with community-level competition, development opportunities, and fast-paced action. With support from Allied Mobility, Division Two continues to be a vital platform for emerging talent and club growth across the UK.
For full event details, visit the GBWR events page.
