Deeside.com > News
Posted: Wed 23rd Oct 2024
A pioneering wheelchair rugby league coach from North Wales has been celebrated in a powerful poetic tribute as part of The National Lottery’s 30th birthday celebrations.
The poem, crafted by renowned Scottish artist and poet Robert Montgomery, honours Stephen Jones and six other sporting ‘Game Changers’ who have made an extraordinary impact on sport in the UK.
The verse dedicated to Stephen was unveiled today (Wednesday 23rd October) at the iconic Principality Stadium in Cardiff, a fitting venue given its strong links to the National Lottery.
The stadium, built with a £46.3 million grant from the National Lottery, has become a central pillar of Welsh sport, hosting significant events such as the 2000 and 2013 Rugby League World Cup opening ceremonies.
Stephen, the Head Coach and Chairman of North Wales Crusaders Wheelchair Rugby League & Disability Sports Club, is credited with transforming the accessibility of the sport. Since founding the club in 2013, he has nurtured 16 international players and created opportunities for individuals of all abilities to participate in wheelchair rugby.
Reflecting on his achievements, Stephen said: “I fell in love with wheelchair rugby league because it’s so diverse. Anyone can play. We’ve got an 11-year-old, a 70-year-old, a trans player, amputees, and people like my son, who has epilepsy. I’m passionate about the need for sports for disabled people, and with the help of National Lottery funding, we’ve made significant progress.”
The poem’s unveiling was part of a nationwide celebration, with verses revealed at other iconic locations, including Wembley Stadium and the University of Stirling’s swimming pool. Each venue highlights a different sporting ‘Game Changer’, whose contributions have been supported by the £30 million raised weekly by National Lottery players for good causes.
Clare Balding, the celebrated broadcaster, brought the poem to life with a stirring recital. Speaking at the event, Balding said: “Sport is about so much more than winning medals. It unites people, bridges divides, and reminds us that through perseverance and teamwork, we can achieve greatness. Stephen and the other Game Changers exemplify this transformative power.”
Stephen’s work has been a lifeline for many, including 13-year-old Ted, who was initially hesitant to use a wheelchair due to his cerebral palsy. Thanks to the welcoming environment Stephen created, Ted now plays for Wales at the international level, a testament to the life-changing impact of disability sports.
The National Lottery has invested over £356 million in Welsh sport since its inception in 1994, funding both elite and grassroots projects. Brian Davies OBE, Chief Executive of Sport Wales, emphasised this support: “National Lottery funding has had a game-changing impact on sport in Wales, helping us create Olympic and Paralympic champions. Stephen Jones is an inspirational figure, and we are proud to celebrate his achievements.”
The 30th anniversary of The National Lottery has seen a broader campaign to highlight 30 inspirational people from across the UK. The final two ‘Game Changers’ will be announced during The National Lottery’s New Year’s Eve Big Bash, airing on ITV on 31 December.
Stephen’s recognition marks a significant milestone in his career, as his work continues to grow the sport, offering a beacon of hope and inclusivity for disabled athletes across North Wales and beyond.
Since 1994, The National Lottery has been a driving force behind some of the UK’s most memorable sporting achievements, providing funding that helps athletes and community clubs alike thrive, changing lives through the power of sport.
Spotted something? Got a story? Send a Facebook Message | A direct message on Twitter | Email: [email protected]
Latest News
