Wheelchair Rugby
GREAT BRITAIN WHEELCHAIR RUGBY UNVEIL A NEW LOOK
AS THE PARALYMPIC CHAMPIONS COUNTDOWN TO PARIS 2024
As one of the only full contact disability sports and one that is also open to men and women competing on the same team, wheelchair rugby is a must-see event at every Paralympic Games. And last summer in Tokyo the GB team claimed gold, grabbing the news headlines and making history.
It's off the back of this amazing success that GBWR has unveiled a brand new look. Based on the concept ‘move with us, forward together’ the new brand explores the force within us all, depicting a player in action moving forward – ready to face the barriers, take the contact and break through. And that is what wheelchair rugby is all about – whether you are a Paralympic Champion or a junior looking to have fun, improve your mobility, keep fit or make friends.
Success for GBWR has not just been at Paralympic level – the sport has enjoyed growth across its clubs, a key area of focus over the coming years. And it’s paying off! Last month, the new GB squad was unveiled featuring 5 new players – all of whom have come through the GBWR Talent Pathway, demonstrating their commitment to developing the next generation of players.
With the national squad currently competing in France, the countdown to Paris 2024 is on and we will have a chance to see the Paralympic Champions even closer to home next year when GBWR host the World Wheelchair Rugby European Championships at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff from the 3-7 May. The vision for the event is to deliver the best European Championships ever! This will be achieved not just by producing the ultimate experience for athletes and fans but by creating a legacy of more people playing and supporting the high impact, adrenaline packed game.
Community engagement will be essential with the organisers working closely with the Welsh Rugby Union, Government, City Council, Disability Sport Wales, schools and colleges and everyone involved. Whilst helping the community to better understand the challenges faced by those who are disabled, a key focus will be on inspiration and motivation, demonstrating that disability is no barrier to an individual achieving their dreams. Alongside the tournament will be a festival of entertainment including a celebrity wheelchair rugby match.
The future is certainly bright as GBWR CEO Jason Brisbane, at the launch of the new logo, shared: “We are so proud of the team’s success at Paralympic level; they have set a standard in disability sport and led the way to victory despite the significant barriers faced – perfectly demonstrating that no matter the challenge, the momentum is positive. We are very excited for the future of our sport, celebrating both our Paralympic and community champions. The time is right for a new brand to represent how far we have come; we are all excited for the future of wheelchair rugby.”
To find out more about the sport or find your nearest club just visit https://gbwr.org.uk/junior/
