However, the centre’s connection to wheelchair basketball does not stop there, as our very own doctoral researcher Lynsey Speirs was selected to represent Scotland at the games in the new 3x3 wheelchair basketball format. By doing so, Lynsey made history with team Scotland, being apart of their first wheelchair basketball 3x3 team to compete at any competition. We asked Lynsey how it felt to be selected:
“Representing Scotland at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games was a dream come true! I am so grateful for the opportunity”.
Lynsey and the rest of Team Scotland’s Commonwealth performance was nothing short of excellent, making it all the way to the bronze medal match against England, where they narrowly lost 12-10. The team just missed out on a podium finish in 4th place, an incredible achievement and certainly one for the history books.
Inspirational achievements
Lynsey is currently doing her PhD within the Peter Harrison Centre, investigating the role of aesthetics in rehabilitation units to facilitate physical activity in people with spinal cord injury, which reflect her own lived experiences. Lynsey is supervised by Dr David Maidment, who was thrilled to hear about her success:
“Lynsey’s achievements this past year have been truly outstanding. In my view, Lynsey’s achievements are an inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what the next few years have instore for her.”
Supporting athletes to push their physical limits
Lynsey expressed that it hasn’t been an easy road getting to where she is today, and dedicated gratitude to fellow members of the Peter Harrison Centre:
“I am thankful to everyone who supported me on this journey, including my PhD supervisors David Maidment, Vicky Tolfrey and Anthony Papathomas. Their support and understanding were invaluable. A special thank you to Vicky Tolfrey and Pippa Bailey at the Peter Harrison Centre, doing a fantastic job supporting athletes like me to understand and push their physical limits. I feel honoured to be part of the PHC and Loughborough University community, a unique environment that will set me up for success now and in the future!”
It was fantastic to support Lynsey at her Commonwealth Games debut and the centre can’t wait to follow her future successes. From everyone here at the Peter Harrison Centre, congratulations, Lynsey!
Find out more
Check out further videos and details of Lynsey’s commonwealth preparation and the important research into 3v3 wheelchair basketball here:
- 3x3 wheelchair basketball – How Loughborough’s research made a lasting impact
- Loughborough continues to lead the way in Para sport research
Written by Ellie-May Storr
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