Coventry Stampede wheelchair rugby team kicked off their 2026 campaign with an impressive showing at the Midlands Development League tournament, hosted by Northampton Saints in Corby. Kitted out in the new kit with team sponsors Nuneaton Signs proudly on show.
The development league is a chance to develop new players, fielding a blend of experienced and several new faces, the day provided an ideal opportunity for developing players to gain valuable court time, confidence, and exposure to competitive wheelchair rugby. From the opening whistle, the Stampede demonstrated cohesion, intensity, and growing tactical maturity as the game went on.
The opening match saw Coventry defeat the hosts Northampton Saints 18–14 in a confident display. That momentum carried into game two, where the Stampede edged out Norfolk Knights 18–15 in another tightly contested encounter.
Despite a narrow 21–20 defeat to PUKDS (UK Police Disability Squad) later in the day, Coventry’s earlier results ensured qualification for the tournament final – a rematch against the same opponents.
In the final, the Stampede surged into an early lead and at one stage went two tries clear. PUKDS gradually clawed their way back, edging ahead late in the contest before Coventry showed tremendous resolve to level the scores with a last-gasp try and force overtime.
The shortened three-minute extra period proved decisive. PUKDS won possession from the restart and, in a dramatic try-for-try exchange, eventually secured victory by a single score, 26–25, in a thrilling conclusion to an outstanding day of rugby.
Full Match Results:
- Northampton Saints 14 – Stampede 18
- PUKDS 20 – Knights 14
- Saints 17 – Knights 13
- Saints 13 – PUKDS 17
- Knights 15 – Stampede 18
- PUKDS 21 – Stampede 20
- PUKDS 26 – Stampede 25 (Final)
Head Coach Mandip Sehmi praised the squad’s performances, highlighting in particular 14-year-old Nate Callard, who was making his competitive debut for the Stampede. “Nate showed maturity beyond his years and really enjoyed the day. We’re excited about his journey in wheelchair rugby. This is exactly what Coventry Rugby Foundation and our community work is about, giving players opportunities to thrive and enjoy the sport at a competitive level. A big thank you to Coventry Rugby, Coventry Rugby Foundation and our new team sponsors Nuneaton Signs”
Wheelchair rugby is a fast-paced, full-contact Paralympic sport, Teams of five battle to carry the ball across the opponent’s goal line, using specialist sports wheelchairs in a contest that rewards speed, strategy, and teamwork.
The Coventry Stampede operate in close partnership with the Coventry Rugby Club Foundation, whose outreach programmes introduce new players to the sport, provide coaching pathways, and support athletes of all ages and abilities.
Anyone interested in getting involved, whether as a player, volunteer, or supporter is encouraged to contact Head Coach Mandip Sehmi through the Coventry Rugby Club Foundation and Coventry Stampede channels to learn more about training sessions and development opportunities.