The Leicester Tigers Wheelchair Rugby team returned to training ahead of a new season scheduled to begin in early 2022, inspired by the success of Team GB’s Paralympic success.

Tigers teammates Gavin Walker, Jamie Stead, Jack Smith and Nick Cummins were also a part of the squad, as well as Tigers' head coach Darren Matthews, team mechanic Jonathan Roach and Rob Tarr, who was unable to travel to Japan due to overcoming Covid-19, supporting the backroom staff.

The Leicester team train at the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Leisure Centre in the city centre and welcomed back players as they prepare for the new season. 

Club secretary David Needham led the session in the absence of the Tigers coaching staff travelling back from the Paralympics. 

Club partner Häfele continue as the team’s sponsor for the 2021/22 having unveiled the team’s branded kit as well as the donation of eight youth wheelchairs to support the club’s wide community initiatives in recent years.

LTWR chairman Rob Tarr, spoke of the Team GB success, adding: “Although I was not physically with the team in Tokyo I still feel all the exhilaration and pride of being a part of an historic event, being able to link up with the bench and then analysis the games helped me stay connected to the team and coach throughout the competition.

We have chased a Paralympic Medal since the demonstration of the sport in Atlanta ‘96, so this legacy cements four years of dedication, determination, passion and hard work and will inspire the future of all GB wheelchair Rugby Players to come.”

Interested in getting involved in Wheelchair Rugby? Click here to find out more about Leicester Tigers Wheelchair Rugby team.