We spoke with Malachi and heard why this chair was so important for him to participate in a sport he loves, wheelchair rugby.

Tell us about yourself and how you got into wheelchair rugby?

    I’ve played Rugby League since I was four years old. When I was six I got ill with Miller Fischer Syndrome which has left me with nerve damage in my feet. I continued playing rugby league until I was 12, but because I had to wear splints on my feet it was difficult because splints aren’t designed for contact sport, so they would often break. 

    I started wheelchair rugby when I was 10 because I played rugby with Tom Halliwell’s brother (England Wheelchair Rugby League player at Leeds Rhinos). Leeds Rhinos have been brilliant with me and have always supported and put so much effort and time into me.

    Wheelchair rugby has allowed me to continue playing rugby and I was lucky enough to be included in the England U16’s talent pathway last year.

    What made you apply for a sports wheelchair from Variety?

      The communal chairs provided by Leeds Rhinos are getting tired and old and are adult size so when I used them they were often slow and difficult to move.

      There are also a lot of people who need to use these too, so sometimes there were not enough chairs for everyone. I would often borrow a friends chair, which was great but if he was playing, or wasn’t there, it meant I couldn’t use it. 

      How does it feel to have your new sports wheelchair?

        Ever since I have got the chair it has boosted my performance because it is made exactly for my size and needs. It has allowed me to go faster and move quicker. It’s also helped my confidence because I don’t have to stress if there will be a chair available so I can concentrate on playing rugby.