Loughborough University: Lightning six to represent GB Women’s British Wheelchair Basketball
In total, five players – Robyn Love, Jude Hamer, Lucy Robinson, Laurie Williams, and Niamh Horan – have been selected for the side, while current Lightning Head Coach George Bates will also be in post as GB Women’s Assistant Coach.
Love, Hamer, Robinson, and Williams all played a key role for ParalympicsGB as they made the quarter-finals at last summer’s Paralympic Games in Tokyo.
Niamh Horan is in line to make her senior squad debut after winning bronze at the 2019 U25 World Championship.
Lightning’s Siobhan Fitzpatrick was also included in the original squad but was unfortunately forced to withdraw due to injury.
“We are delighted that five Lightning players have been selected to represent GB at such a prestigious tournament for the sport,” George Bates said.
“Robyn, Jude, Lucy, Laurie, and Niamh have all worked unbelievably hard to get where they are today, and each player will bring talent to a very strong squad.
“On a personal level, I’m looking forward to adding value where I can within the coaching set-up and learning from those around me. We all can’t wait to get started.”
The European Championships take place in Madrid between 4 – 12 December, and GB will face France, Turkey, The Netherlands, Spain, and Germany.
British Wheelchair Basketball Performance Director, Jayne Ellis added:
“Undoubtedly this has been a unique and challenging 12 months in our international competition calendar – never before have we had to prepare the GB senior teams for two major internationals within six months of one another.
“In Tokyo our GB teams showed the world their grit and determination. Today, I am once again so tremendously proud of this group of incredible, focused and passionate athletes who will represent our nation in Madrid.
“I continue to be in awe of their dedication and talent, and their sheer determination to deliver world-class performances at the European Championships in December.”
The full GB Women’s squad:
#4 Charlotte Moore (1.0)
#5 Sophie Carrigill (1.0)
#6 Kayla Bell (1.0)
#7 Helen Freeman (4)
#8 Laurie Williams (2.5)
#9 Jude Hamer (4)
#12 Lucy Robinson (4.5)
#14 Joy Haizelden (2.5)
#15 Robyn Love (3.5)
#16 Jade Atkin (4.5)
#17 Niamh Horan (3)