Steeled for Success: 2026 Extended High Performance Squad Announced
Wheelchair Rugby Australia (WRA) is excited to announce the 2026 Extended High Performance Squad, marking the next phase in the national program as the Steelers continue building toward upcoming international campaigns.
The 22-strong squad brings together a blend of established Paralympians, experienced national representatives and emerging talent, highlighting the continued growth of wheelchair rugby across the country. The extended squad will work closely with WRA’s High Performance staff throughout the year, taking part in training camps, international preparation and key competitions as the program continues to strengthen Australia’s position on the world stage ahead of defending the Steelers’ current World Championship title in August this year.
Leadership group confirmed for 2026
Master campaigner Chris Bond will continue to lead the team as Captain, bringing his experience, consistency and steady leadership to the group once again.
Supporting Bond in 2026 is a refreshed leadership group that reflects the depth of the squad. James McQuillan has been appointed Vice Captain, and will be joined by fellow leaders Shae Graham, Andrew Edmondson and Beau Vernon. Together, the group will help guide the culture, standards and performance expectations within the program.
“The 2026 squad reflects the strength and depth we’re continuing to build within Australian wheelchair rugby,” Acting National Head Coach Lewis Quinn said.
“We’ve got experienced athletes who have competed at the highest level, alongside emerging players pushing into the program, raising the standard across the squad. What’s been really encouraging is how connected the entire squad is, with athletes genuinely invested in supporting each other and driving the group forward.”
“Our leadership group brings a wealth of experience and strong connection to the squad, and they’ll play a key role in setting our standards and helping to shape the environment, as we prepare for a fierce international campaign in 2026 and beyond.”
The full 2026 Extended High Performance Squad is listed below:
| Name | Classification | Jersey Number | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryley Batt | 3.5 | 3 | QLD |
| Chris Bond (C) | 3.5 | 10 | QLD |
| Brayden Foxley-Conolly | 3.5 | 15 | QLD |
| Andrew Holloway | 3.5 | 20 | NSW |
| Cooper Blackwood | 3.0 | 25 | QLD |
| Robyn Lambird | 3.0F | 24 | WA |
| Shae Graham | 2.5F | 12 | VIC |
| Ella Sabljak | 2.5F | 1 | QLD |
| Conor Tweedy | 2.5 | 22 | QLD |
| Andrew Edmondson | 2.0 | 14 | NSW |
| Jayden Jackson | 2.0 | 9 | NSW |
| Josh Nicholson | 2.0 | 21 | QLD |
| Lilliana Prucha | 2.0F | 7 | QLD |
| Tai Martin-Page | 1.5 | 23 | SA |
| Jake Howe | 1.0 | 4 | WA |
| Beau Vernon | 1.0 | 11 | QLD |
| Ben Fawcett | 0.5 | 8 | VIC |
| James McQuillan (VC) | 0.5 | 5 | VIC |
| Emilie Miller | 0.5F | 2 | QLD |
| Damien Mortaud | 0.5 | 13 | QLD |
| Michael Ozanne | 0.5 | 6 | QLD |
| Cam Wales | 0.5 | 33 | VIC |
Leadership group reflections
Chris Bond – Captain
“The Steelers are my greatest passion; I have been fortunate to have led the team through the last four years with some big highs and some tough lows along the way. The faith in my team to elect me as Captain again into this year’s World Championships year is truly humbling and I will continue to commit myself to the team. This time around I have a lot more support with the leadership group established and some of the load being shared amongst our high calibre of leaders within the squad. A new direction and energy is exciting, and that excitement is becoming contagious as we buy in collectively towards achieving something great together.”
James McQuillan – Vice Captain
“I’m incredibly humbled to have been given an opportunity to help shape the culture and direction of our program as Vice Captain. The depth in our squad is as good as I’ve seen in my time, and there’s a genuine commitment from athletes and staff to support each other’s growth while enjoying the journey together. Our program is in a really strong place, and I’m excited about what this group can achieve in 2026 and into the future.”
Shae Graham
“Becoming a member of the Steelers leadership group is an exciting new challenge for me. I have loved watching our Steelers family (squad) grow over the last couple of years and this new role means I can help support my teammates and help grow and nurture our team culture and standards. 2026 is going to be a great year for the Steelers and I am excited to see what this amazing group of talented staff and players can achieve together.”
Andrew Edmondson
“I’m excited to be part of this group that will help guide and shape this new look Steelers team. I will utilise my experience on and off the court as best I can to make sure we uphold our values and get back to being the best team the world!”
Beau Vernon
“It’s an honour to be part of the leadership group and help guide the standards and culture of this team. We want to build an environment where everyone has the opportunity to excel, and I’m excited about what we can create together in 2026. There’s a lot of energy and hunger in the group to be great, on and off the court, and represent Australia with pride.”
New addition to the High Performance program
The squad sees a raft of familiar names after a milestone 2025 for performance where we saw 6 Australian Steelers debut and represent the green and gold for the first time.
In 2026, we welcome Cam Wales, who joins the High Performance program following a breakout year in 2025. Wales impressed throughout the season as part of the Miners development squad, earning selection for two international competitions and showcasing his potential against strong opposition. His inclusion in the High Performance program reflects both his rapid development and the continued strength of Australia’s national pathway.
World Challenge around the corner
The Steelers turn their heads to preparing for the 2026 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge, where they take the court for the first time this year. Tickets for the blockbuster event are on sale now, you won’t want to miss this.
Keep an eye on WRA’s channels for the World Challenge squad announcement in the coming days.