In just over a month, more than 350 inspirational athletes and officials from around the world will converge to our shores for the 2018 Wheelchair Rugby World Championship.
The Australian Steelers are ranked number one and will be determined to defend their World Championship title when 11 international teams come to battle it out at Sydney Olympic Park from August 5 to 10.
Australia has drawn Pool A along with arch rugby rivals New Zealand for the opening match on Sunday August 5, while traditional wheelchair Rugby powerhouse USA has been drawn in Pool B.
Australian Women’s Sevens player Vani Pelite has been named as an ambassador for the championship.
‘’I was really excited to become the ambassador. I obviously watched the Steelers win gold in Rio and to be able to see them do that was just an amazing achievement for them.
‘’I didn’t realise how physical they were, and their contact is actually quite brutal, they make some pretty decent hits on each other. It’s also great to see the men and women play alongside each other in the same team.’’
Rugby Australia Chief Executive Raelene Castle said: ‘’This is a fantastic opportunity for Australians to get involved with a really dynamic sport. Wheelchair Rugby is fast, it’s fun and it’s loud”.
‘’We know that a world championship on home soil creates an electric atmosphere and I encourage people to get behind the Steelers and cheer them on from the sidelines.’’
Chief Executive Officer of host organisation Disability Sports Australia Jenni Cole said: “This is the largest elite sporting event for people with a disability to be held in Sydney since the 2000 Paralympic Games.
‘’The athleticism, skill and tactics are incredible to watch, and we look forward to welcoming all spectators to the event – particularly for the Family Fun Day which includes the opening ceremony and opening game on Sunday August 5 from 10.00am, and for the Medal Finals matches on Friday August 10 from 1.30pm.’’
Ticket prices range between $5 and $50 for a day pass including multiple matches across two venues. For event details and to purchase tickets please visit the official website at 2018wrwc.com.
