Wheelchair Rugby Australia welcomes three new members to its Board of Directors
Following a highly competitive recruitment process, Wheelchair Rugby Australia (WRA) is proud to announce the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors: Eve Ireland, Anathea Ruys and Kate McLoughlin.
They join Chair, Steve Loader, and current Directors, Tim Walsh, Hannah Lidster, Nathalie Mann, John Hart and Bryce Alman, to mark an exciting new chapter of growth, innovation and maturity for wheelchair rugby in Australia.
Anathea Ruys is a globally respected business leader with a track record of forging powerful connections between brands and communities. Her career has been defined by driving measurable business growth and building inclusive, purpose-led partnerships. A seasoned negotiator, she has worked with some of the world’s most recognisable brands and is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion.
“From my first interaction with Wheelchair Rugby Australia, it was clear wheelchair rugby is a sport that was both critically important to the players, their families and the broader community, as well as being an enthralling and engaging spectacle,” Ms Ruys said.
“I am excited to be able to support WRA to achieve their goal of introducing Australia to their new favourite sport – they just don’t know it yet.”
Eve Ireland is a skilled marketing and transformation leader, specialising in digital innovation across globally recognised brands. She has led high-performing teams across multiple continents, with deep expertise in content strategy, performance marketing, social media and e-commerce. Her leadership has been defined by a focus on innovation, empowerment and inclusion.
“I’m honoured to join the Board of Wheelchair Rugby Australia and support a sport that combines fierce athleticism with an incredibly strong sense of community,” Ms Ireland shared.
“I look forward to helping the organisation grow its impact and bring more Australians into the world of wheelchair rugby.”
Kate McLoughlin is an experienced sports executive with over 25 years in high performance sport, leadership and major event delivery. She is currently the Head of Games and International Engagement at Paralympics Australia and has served as Chef de Mission for the Australian Paralympic Team for five Paralympic Games campaigns since 2016. She is committed to inclusive leadership, athlete-centred practice, and sustainable sport.
“I’ve been a passionate supporter of wheelchair rugby for many years, and I’m honoured to join the Board to help continue to grow the game, support our athletes and staff, and share this incredible sport with the world,” Ms McLoughlin said.
The new Directors bring a wealth of expertise and fresh perspectives to WRA’s leadership team as the organisation continues its mission to expand the sport’s reach and strengthen athlete pathways across the country.
This is being achieved by delivering key strategic priorities including hosting major events such as the 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge in Adelaide, launching a dedicated juniors division, increasing female participation at all levels of the game and supporting the next generation of athletes, coaches and officials.
“We’re thrilled to welcome such distinguished and forward-thinking leaders to WRA's Board,” WRA Board Chair, Steve Loader said.
“I have no doubt that their combined expertise will strengthen our efforts to elevate wheelchair rugby, both nationally and on the world stage.”
These appointments also see WRA’s Board reach over 50% female representation, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to inclusive leadership and ensuring the sport is guided by a diverse range of voices and expertise.
For more information and media enquiries, please contact:
Emily Newton
Manager – Media & Marketing
emily@wheelchairrugby.com.au
0481 121 440