Kent: England wheelchair rugby coach appointed MBE

Head coach Tom Coyd, helped guide England to win the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup

One of the masterminds who helped England to win the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup on home soil has been appointed an MBE.

Head coach Tom Coyd, of Gillingham, Kent, helped guide the team to victory at the tournament in 2022.

The 28-year-old was honoured for services to wheelchair rugby league at Windsor Castle.

"It has been bonkers and (it feels like) the fastest 18 months of my life ever," he said.

Mr Coyd said the success of the World Cup had helped with the growth of the sport, with the number of active clubs in the UK increasing from 20 to 50.

Meanwhile, the number of players, which stood at about 200 before the tournament, is now about 500.

"It includes men, women and young children, and it's the most diverse group of any sport. I feel it is the most inclusive sport in the world," he said.

Tom Coyd was honoured for services to wheelchair rugby league

After receiving his honour from the Princess Royal, Mr Coyd added: "We have gone on to be recognised and have more experiences than we ever dreamed of."

Following England's success, the Princess of Wales visited Hull for a celebration of inclusion in rugby league.

Of Catherine's wheelchair rugby prowess, Mr Coyd said: "She was amazing. I have never seen anyone kick a goal on their first ever attempt.

"I do not know if she had done any video analysis, but she seemed to know what she was doing."

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