2025: A landmark year for our Wheelchair Rugby team

A Year to Remember for Cheltenham Tigers Wheelchair Rugby

 

As we come together to celebrate the New Year as a club, it feels only right to reflect on what has been an extraordinary year for Cheltenham Tigers Wheelchair Rugby. From national silverware to international competition, 2025 has been a landmark year that showcases not only our results, but the ambition, resilience and community spirit that define this team.

 

 

CHAMPIONS OF DIVISION 1

The year truly set the tone in March, when the Tigers claimed the National Division 1 title for the 2024/25 season. After a demanding campaign filled with determination and hard-fought performances, the squad delivered when it mattered most. Securing the title was a huge achievement and a proud moment for players, coaches, volunteers and supporters alike — and it also marked the next step in the team’s journey.

 

MAKING OUR MARK AT TOP LEVEL

Summer 2025 saw Cheltenham Tigers competing at the highest level of domestic wheelchair rugby. Facing the very best teams in the country across the national tournament calendar, the Tigers rose to the challenge. Finishing the season as the third best team in the UK was an outstanding achievement and firmly established Cheltenham Tigers as a force in elite wheelchair rugby.

 

TAKING ON THE WORLD IN PRAGUE

In November, the Tigers tested themselves on the international stage at Rugby Mania in Prague, a prestigious tournament attracting elite players and teams from across the globe, including representatives from the USA, Canada, Australia and Europe. Competing in such a high-calibre field was a fantastic experience for the squad. Finishing 4th overall, narrowly missing out on a bronze medal, was a strong performance and provided invaluable experience against world-class opposition.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

The success of the team has also been reflected in individual achievements. In September, Alex Smart made his Great Britain debut, travelling to Australia to represent his country. Alex joins Tyler Walker, another Cheltenham Tigers player, in the GB squad — a significant milestone for both players and a proud moment for the club.

Further recognition came with Millie Partridge and Jess Hawkins being selected for the GB Women and Girls Talent Programme, highlighting the growing strength and depth of talent within the club and reinforcing our commitment to developing the next generation of players.

 

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026

The momentum has continued into the 2025/26 season, with the competition structure evolving and the Premiership now replaced by Division 1. Cheltenham Tigers’ First Team currently sit third in Division 1, demonstrating consistency and ambition as they continue to compete among the country’s leading sides.

Equally encouraging is the progress of our Second Team, who currently hold fifth place in Division 2. In 2026, they will travel to Germany to compete in the Bernd Best tournament, an exciting opportunity to gain valuable international experience, develop as a squad, and test themselves against new opposition.

 

ONCE CLUB, ONE VISION

This year has been about more than results. It has been about growth, opportunity and showing what is possible when a group of people come together with a shared purpose. With strength across both teams and players representing the club on the international stage, the future of Cheltenham Tigers Wheelchair Rugby looks incredibly bright.

Thank you to everyone who has supported the team throughout this remarkable journey — players, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, families and fans. We look forward to everything that 2026 has to bring.

Happy New Year from everyone at Cheltenham Tigers Wheelchair Rugby