The Paralympic Order is the highest award anyone associated with the Paralympic movement can attain.
David’s motivation and strategic leadership had an impact on the growth of the small sport boccia, changing it to a new and prosperous international sport federation, which has been highly acknowledged and appreciated throughout the Paralympic movement.
David has been involved with Boccia since 2009, skilfully contributing to its growth on a yearly basis in terms of its membership, elite athlete base, international competition programme, and player pathways which support emerging athletes and developing countries. The membership of World Boccia covers 73 countries, and as an International Federation it is viewed as modern, progressive and highly ethical.
On receiving the award, David said: “I was very surprised, but feel greatly honoured, to have been awarded the Paralympic Order. It is a wonderful recognition of the hard work of so many dedicated people, all volunteers, who have helped make Boccia the fastest growing and one of the most exciting Paralympic sports.”
David graduated with a MSc in Construction Management in 1980, and later pursued World Boccia and his passion for the sport. He was awarded an OBE in 2022.
Loughborough alumni have had many spectacular achievements in many different fields throughout the years, and the accomplishments have had great impact. Well done, David.