Ireland victorious in wheelchair rugby
Inspiring squad beats host nation France in two exhibition matches
Thursday, 13 September 2007
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While Ireland's recent performance against Namibia at the Rugby World Cup was nothing to get excited about, Ireland's world class wheelchair rugby team's display in Paris last week was nothing less than spectacular.
The 15-member squad, which was invited to showcase the growing sport as part of the international event, beat the host nation twice in the two exhibition matches, which were staged outside the iconic Louvre.
Ballyclare man Craig McMillan, who has been a member of the team for the past several years, last night spoke of his huge pride of being able to represent his country in a sport he loves.
The 25-year-old became paralysed after he broke his neck while playing in a school rugby match for Ballyclare High School on Boxing Day 1999.
He spent six months in hospital after his injury, but returned to school, finished his A-Levels and went on to graduate from university.
He told the Belfast Telegraph the World Cup opportunity was one of the best experiences of his life. "It meant so much," he explained. "I am an ex-rugby player - that is how I became paralysed - so for me being able to be there during the World Cup was amazing.
"There was this whole buzz about the place. I had never been to Paris before and we had never played outside either. It was amazing.
"It was really great for the sport. People were walking past and stopping to have a look at what was going on.
"Usually wheelchair rugby is played indoors, so you don't get as many spectators, but last week it was great. I think everyone enjoyed it."
Craig, who plays professionally for the Dublin-based Gaelic Warriors, said he hoped the two exhibition matches would help to improve the sport's profile both there and over here.
He explained he was a big advocate of the sport and encouraged others to " have a go".
"Being disabled does not mean the end of your life. There is so much you can do if you only just give it a go.
"I try my best to promote the sport and encourage others to take part. If people would just give it a go, they would probably find they would be able to play."
And while Craig is hoping Ireland will be able to bounce back against Georgia this week, he is not too sure how the team will fair for the rest of the group stage.
"I would have said they might be in with a chance before last week but now I am not so sure," he said. "I am a little scared, but we will see."
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