Scotland Wheelchair stalwart and heritage player number 1 Graeme Stewart has called time on his international playing career.
Making his debut at the Four nations in 2012 against Wales which would be the start of an 11-year journey which saw him compete in three world cups and go on to be awarded 35 caps, scoring 1 try against Ireland in 2015 at the European championships and registering 14 conversions in all competitions.
He recently took part in the Celtic Cup held in June 2024 in Ireland and his 35th and final cap would be against the team where it all started against the Welsh with Scotland running out winners 64-52 in a tightly contested game at the University of Galway.
Graeme had this to say:
“It has been an honour representing my country and from the first cap to the last there has been no better feeling singing the national anthem. I would like to thank all the players, coaches and support staff who have made this experience unforgettable. I look forward to seeing the young passionate squad and coaches do great things in the future, Go Bravehearts!”
Newly appointed Scotland Wheelchair Head Coach Martyn Gill commented:
Graeme has been an ever-present figure in the international set up for over a decade and has continued to show resilience, pride and passion whenever representing the country. He has had a massive impact on everyone that is currently involved in the pathway and equally those that are no longer involved. I know the players speak very highly of him and the support he has given them. He will take some time out and then we will have a chat about how he continues to be involved going forward.
To mark Graeme’s commitment to the national side Scotland Wheelchair will also be retiring his number 5 jersey and it will belong forever for the first ever player to be capped for Scotland Wheelchair Rugby League.
Mark Roughsedge, Director of Wheelchair Rugby League said:
“I was fortunate to coach Graeme during my time as Head Coach of the national squad and the impact he had is testament to the man that he is. He is a proud Scot who wanted to do his best every time he pulled on the jersey and no doubt his legacy will inspire the current playing group going forward.”
The playing group were informed of his decision to retire on Sunday 22nd Sept and the well wishes continue to come in with newly appointed Captain Connor Blackmore having this to say:
“Congrats on a fantastic career mate, 35 caps for your country is an amazing shift. Thank-you for all the knowledge and advice you have passed down to myself since I got involved in 2017. You’ve been a huge asset to the whole programme over the years you have been involved in the game. Thank-you Braveheart number 1!”
Graeme’s career will be marked in person on 7th December at the Scotland Performance Squad (SPS) session to be held at Pleasance Sports Complex.
