The International Wheelchair Rugby Federation has launched a new discipline of wheelchair rugby known as Rugby 5s – a sport developed by Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby (GBWR) that provides for athletes with different functional abilities to the Paralympic discipline. A partnership has now been agreed whereby this sport can be developed internationally. The IWRF is indebted to GBWR for developing the Game which provides development opportunities for wheelchair rugby around the world ensuring the growth of the wheelchair rugby family.
David Pond the CEO of GBWR said;
“We are delighted that the IWRF are supporting the new discipline of WR5’s created and developed by GBWR in recognition of the many disabled individuals who want to play our game but whose levels of functionality prevented them from being classified into the Paralympic discipline. The beating heart of our sport must always be the Paralympic discipline as the game was invented for those with quadriplegia and we in GBWR will always protect that. Equally we want to provide the opportunity for other disabled people to enjoy our sport and be part of our community. WR5s is already proving hugely popular in Britain and we are excited about the potential of international competition”.
Cherie Harris who heads up the Development function for IWRF indicated her delight at the opportunities provided by Rugby 5s;
“For those that have felt unable to play this hard hitting, addictive sport due to eligibility… we bring you 5s. A discipline of the Paralympic version of the game enabling a more inclusive environment and fast paced action. The increased eligibility of 5s will only widen our global rugby family… we look forward to welcoming anyone ready for action”.
For more information you can view the Wheelchair Rugby 5s documents via: https://worldwheelchair.rugby/technical-and-officials/