Australian Steelers crowned World Champions

The Australian Steelers are the 2022 Wheelchair Rugby World Champions, defeating the USA in a nail-biting gold medal final at the World Championship in Vejle, Denmark overnight.

The result can only be described as a major upset given the Steelers recent form run in international competition, however the Australian’s were quietly confident that with all their players available and sufficient lead time to train ahead of the event that they could shock the world, which ultimately they did in emphatic fashion.

Chris Bond’s captaincy was certainly a highlight, as the Aussies showed plenty of composure in big moments right across the championship, whilst the team’s decision to stay away from the competition hotel proved a winner, creating an environment that brought the whole group together which reflected on the court.

2022 can now only be considered as a landmark year for the sport. It was earlier this year where a club-based’ domestic competition pathway, the Wheelchair Rugby National League, was introduced with much success, providing more competitive game-time for players. The Wheelchair Rugby National Championship was broadcast live across the nation on Fox Sports linear channels and the Steelers are the newly crowned World Champions on the back of their wonderfully entertaining brand of rugby.

Congratulations to the Australian Steelers and all the wheelchair rugby staff at Paralympics Australia on this success! Wheelchair rugby in this country is lucky to have such a hard-working, committed and intelligent group providing a world-class performance environment for our athletes.

If you missed the action from Denmark or just want to relive the Championship that was, check out the matches and summaries below.