Help Support My Son, an RAF Veteran, Represent the UK Armed Forces Wheelchair Rugby League Team in a once in a lifetime tour to Australia.

The funds raised will used to support himself and the team on the tour, especially as the costs have increased significantly due to the war in the Middle East.

I’m incredibly proud to share that my son, Ben, has been selected to represent the UK Armed Forces Wheelchair Rugby League Team on their upcoming tour of Australia.

Thirteen years ago, Ben’s life changed dramatically after he was seriously injured in a training accident while serving with the Royal Air Force. 

The accident left him with permanent spinal injuries, including nerve damage to his right arm and leg and ongoing mental health challenges, and the years since have been a long journey of resilience, determination, and rebuilding his life.

He was further rocked recently by the diagnosis of COPD and an inoperable brain tumour, but he hasn't let any of this hold him back from continuing to push himself in the sports he loves to do! He will have some difficult medical hurdles in the next few years, and much of his spare funds will be used to support this and these extra costs.

Through determination and resilience, he discovered wheelchair rugby league. This sport, which has played a huge role in his rehabilitation, giving him renewed purpose, confidence, and a supportive community, he now plays regularly with the Sheffield Eagles PDRL and WCRL teams and has been supported massively by them, he has gained his coaching certificate and Referee qualifications.

Being selected to represent the UK Armed Forces on an international tour is an incredible honour and a testament to the hard work, strength, and commitment he has shown over the years. It is also a major milestone in his recovery journey.

They will be playing the Australian and New Zealand Armed Forces teams, local wheelchair teams, such as the Brisbane Broncos WCRL team and commemorating ANZAC day alongside Australian and New Zealand service members and veterans, before watching the Wheelaroos take on the Wheel Kiwis. Also doing community outreach with local schools and teams.

However, players are required to contribute towards the costs of the tour, including food, accommodation, training camps, and essential team expenses. We are raising funds to help cover these costs so he can take part in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Ben finds it difficult to ask for help, but any support, no matter how small, would mean so much to him and our family. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would also be hugely appreciated.

Thank you for helping him take this next step and represent the UK Armed Forces with pride.

And a massive thank you to The Soldiers League and Sheffield Eagles Foundation that are supporting Ben to make this happen.

Love Ellie