USA Wheelhawks Will Train for World Cup in Wilmington

The American wheelchair rugby league squad is preparing in North Carolina ahead of their upcoming journey to Australia.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Other Sports

USA Wheelhawks Will Train for World Cup in Wilmington

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The USA Wheelhawks are currently training in Wilmington, North Carolina, as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. The 12-player roster will travel to Australia this October to represent the United States on the international stage.

Why it matters

By competing in this tournament, the team intends to foster the growth and popularity of wheelchair rugby league throughout the United States. This marks the second time the team has competed in the event, following their 2022 appearance in England.

The sport utilizes a five-on-five format on a basketball court where athletes advance the ball through passes and laterals. The 12-member roster includes 10 athletes with disabilities ranging from spinal cord injuries to visual impairments.

The players

USA Wheelhawks

This is the national wheelchair rugby league team representing the United States in international competition.

University of North Carolina Wilmington

This public university in Wilmington serves as the employer for one of the players currently on the national team roster.

The details

Athletes on the team include military veterans and a recreational therapy professor from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Defenders participate by pulling flags from the shoulders of opponents, while the squad prepares for opening pool play.

The team last competed in the Rugby League World Cup in 2022.
The team travels to Australia in October 2026.
World Cup competition begins against Ireland on Oct. 29, 2026.
The championship round is scheduled for Nov. 11-13, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This World Cup appearance marks the second time the USA Wheelhawks have reached this stage of international competition. Success in the upcoming pool play against Ireland, England, and Wales is essential to advancing toward the championship round.

The roster features 10 athletes with specific disabilities, highlighting the accessibility and inclusiveness of the league's five-on-five competitive format. The team's performance in upcoming pool play will determine their seeding for the championship round in November.

The takeaway

The team's efforts in Wilmington highlight the ongoing expansion of inclusive athletic programs for veterans and athletes with disabilities. Supporters can follow the squad as they aim to elevate the visibility of the sport during their international campaign.

What happens next

The USA Wheelhawks will open World Cup competition against Ireland on Oct. 29, 2026, followed by the championship round scheduled for Nov. 11-13, 2026.