READY TO ROLL? BE PART OF LEICESTER TIGERS’ NEW WHEELCHAIR RUGBY JUNIOR ACADEMY

Young people with disabilities across Leicester are being invited to discover the speed, teamwork and confidence-building power of wheelchair rugby through the new Leicester Tigers Wheelchair Rugby Junior Academy.

The monthly programme gives young people aged eight to 17 years – and their families – the opportunity to try wheelchair rugby in a fun, inclusive and fully supported environment. Sessions take place once a month on Saturdays from 12:00 to 14:30 at De Montfort University (DMU) Leisure Centre.

Launched to make the sport more accessible, the Junior Academy has already hosted four sessions, with 15 junior players taking part so far.

No experience is needed and all chairs and kit are provided, removing barriers for families and allowing young people to simply turn up, get involved and enjoy the game. Friends and siblings are also welcome to join in, helping create a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can feel part of the team.

The programme is overseen by Jamie Stead, former Paralympian, back-to-back European Champion and member of Great Britain’s historic Tokyo Paralympic gold medal-winning wheelchair rugby team.

The Junior Academy is supported by the Samworth Brothers Community Opportunity Fund, helping open up wheelchair rugby to more young people across Leicester and the surrounding community.

Jamie Stead, former Paralympian and programme organiser, said:

“Wheelchair rugby is about so much more than sport. It gives young people the chance to move, compete, have fun, make friends and discover what they are capable of in a space that has been built around them.

“The response to the Junior Academy has already been fantastic, and we want more families to know that this opportunity is here for them. Whether a young person has played sport before or is trying something new for the first time, they will be welcomed, supported and encouraged from the moment they arrive.”

For many young participants, the Academy is already making a difference both on and off the court.

One Junior Academy participant, said:

“I was nervous before my first session, but everyone made me feel welcome straight away. I liked being able to try something new and play with other people. It was really fun, and I want to keep coming back.”

The Academy is designed to help young people build confidence, develop movement skills, experience teamwork and enjoy physical activity in an inclusive setting. It also gives families the chance to connect with others, learn more about wheelchair rugby and be part of a growing community around the sport.

Leicester Tigers Wheelchair Rugby is now encouraging families, schools, SEND networks and community organisations to share the opportunity with young people who may benefit from taking part.

Families interested in finding out more or bringing a young person along to a future session can contact the Coach on coach@tigerswr.club or visit https://www.leicestertigers.com/community/foundation/wheelchair-rugby