
Yesterday, I had the fantastic opportunity to play rugby against, the world champions themselves, the England Rugby Wheelchair 7's! Being a rugby fan, I had my own visions on what the day would bring and it never failed to disappoint. Upon arrival, myself and a few of the Mr England finalists and the Miss England finalists watched as the team demonstrated their enviable skills. I know rugby's rough but this took it to a new level and I must admit, we were all pretty terrified as we watched the team race across the courts and, without blinking, ramming each others chairs and tipping each other in order to score a try. It was pretty brutal! Luckily for us though, they weren't too hard on us!

Once we were strapped in and ready to go, any anxieties we previously had vanished and instead the experience became so much more enjoyable. Warming up, we all raced across the courts and, without mercy, began ramming our chairs into each other too! It was all in good faith though! At one point, I even got revenge on Mr Coventry by grabbing the back of his chair and, with the help of a few others, dragging him across the court! It's safe to say just through the warm ups, we were possibly enjoying it a little too much!

As the game began, we were separated into teams consisting of some Mr England finalists, some Miss England finalists and some professional players. We all had a fantastic time and I think some finalists have even found their new favourite sport! Miss Forest and Fens was a natural on the court and even gave some of the pro players a run for their money! All in all, it was a brilliant day and a real privilege to be a part! It was also amazing to have the pleasure of meeting Callum Mayes whom has just completed his charity walk from Leicester to Blackpool as part of his campaign for the wheelchair awareness challenge. He is truly an incredible person and a true inspiration to those around him. We further took a group photo to be used on social media to support the campaign Oddballs in order to raise awareness of testicular cancer - something that I feel truly does need more recognition. I was grateful to have the opportunity to attempt to do something to aid this cause.
Wheelchair rugby as a whole is a completely new experience to me but one that I may have to be more involved in in the future! Despite a few burnt fingers and a few bruises, I had a really fun time playing and I would love to do it again.
All the best,
Mr Birmingham
Wheelchair rugby as a whole is a completely new experience to me but one that I may have to be more involved in in the future! Despite a few burnt fingers and a few bruises, I had a really fun time playing and I would love to do it again.
All the best,
Mr Birmingham