Cardiff, Wales – Jodie Boyd-Ward is poised to etch her name into the annals of wheelchair rugby league history as she prepares to lead Wales onto the field at Archers Arena on Saturday. This match will mark her 45th international appearance, surpassing the previous record held by Welshman Harry Jones.
A Captain’s Honor and a Momentous Occasion
Boyd-Ward, a 32-year-old athlete, expressed her profound honor at being selected as captain for the Celtic Cup. She emphasized the importance of the possibility to lead the team in their quest to reclaim the trophy.”It truly is an honour to be asked to captain Wales for the Celtic Cup,” Boyd-Ward stated,”especially as it’s an opportunity to lead the squad out and look to reclaim the trophy.”
return to the Game After a Needed break
The upcoming match represents a triumphant return for Boyd-Ward, who had taken a hiatus from the sport following a successful tour with the team in the United states last year. Recognizing the need for respite after years of consistent play, she prioritized self-care before returning to competition. Now, she reports feeling reinvigorated and anticipates contributing significantly to the team’s success. “Now I’m back and feeling better than ever, I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with the team and also seeing how both Scotland and Ireland have continued their development, as I no we have at Wales.”
Experienced Leadership in the Ranks
Adding to the team’s strength, Stuart Williams, the World cup captain from 2022, has been designated as vice-captain. Williams, renowned as Wales’ all-time leading try scorer with an extraordinary 66 tries, returns to the squad after a year’s absence. His experience and leadership are expected to be invaluable as Wales competes in the Celtic Cup.
Key Player Stats
| Player | International Appearances | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Jodie Boyd-Ward | 45 (to be reached Saturday) | Set to become the most-capped player in wheelchair rugby league history |
| Harry Jones | 44 | Previously held the record for most international appearances |
| Stuart Williams | N/A | Wales’ record international try scorer (66 tries), 2022 World Cup Captain |
Did You Know? Wheelchair rugby league is one of the fastest-growing adapted sports globally, providing opportunities for athletes with disabilities to compete at a high level. Wheelchair Rugby League International Federation
The Rise of Wheelchair Rugby League
Wheelchair rugby league has experienced considerable growth in recent years, attracting increased participation and media attention. The sport’s inclusive nature and dynamic gameplay have contributed to its rising popularity. According to Sport England, participation in adapted sports has increased by 20% over the last five years, with wheelchair rugby league being a key driver of this growth.
Pro Tip: Interested in getting involved? Many clubs offer introductory sessions for newcomers, providing all necessary equipment and guidance. Check the Wheelchair Rugby League International Federation’s club finder for locations near you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wheelchair Rugby League
- What is wheelchair rugby league? Wheelchair rugby league is a fast-paced, physical sport played on wheelchairs, adapted from the traditional game of rugby league.
- How does wheelchair rugby league differ from rugby league? the main difference lies in the use of wheelchairs, which allows for speed, agility, and unique tactical plays.
- What are the rules of wheelchair rugby league? The rules are largely similar to those of rugby league, with adaptations to account for the wheelchairs.
- Where can I find more information about the Celtic Cup? More details about the Celtic Cup, including schedules and results, can be found on the official tournament website.
- Is wheelchair rugby league a Paralympic sport? While not yet a Paralympic sport, there are ongoing efforts to include it in future Paralympic Games.
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