Lincolnshire Army Veteran Finds Life's Purpose in Wheelchair Rugby
Tom Folwell, a 38-year-old army veteran from Lincolnshire, has derived newfound purpose in life through wheelchair rugby. Folwell, who lost both his legs and four fingertips in an Afghanistan bomb blast in 2012, now finds solace in the tactical sport.
Life-Changing Injuries Lead to a Wheelchair Rugby Career
During a foot patrol in Helmand Province, Folwell encountered an IED, resulting in life-changing injuries that prematurely ended his 12-year career with the Royal Engineers. Several surgeries later, he is now a dedicated member of the Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby league's Help for Heroes team.
"I'm proud to represent Help for Heroes, and I really enjoy being around other veterans as we have the same mindset," said Folwell. "Wheelchair rugby can be very tactical, and I enjoy that part of the game."
Help for Heroes Undefeated in its Maiden Season
Based in Horncastle, Folwell represents the team that went undefeated in its first competitive season and promoted to the Championship. In addition to playing locally, he captained both Team UK's Wheelchair Rugby and Wheelchair Basketball teams at The Hague's Invictus Games.
The impact of the sport on his recovery and well-being is significant as he shared, "It has given me back my sense of purpose. I'm looking forward to the next season when the aim will be to get another promotion."
International Wheelchair Rugby World Cup Kicks off
This week, the International Wheelchair Rugby World Cup begins in Paris, coinciding with the Rugby World Cup for the first time. Help for Heroes, the military charity that provides sports opportunities to disabled veterans, including taster wheelchair rugby sessions and friendly tournaments, has launched special 'I'd Rather Be Watching Rugby' t-shirts modelled by squad members, including Folwell. The initiative seeks to encourage more Armed Forces community members to explore wheelchair rugby.
"I’d recommend people give wheelchair rugby a go. Some are put off because they think the knocks are too hard. But the chairs take most of the knocks. And plus, it’s part of the fun," Folwell added.