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The winners of this year’s British Wheelchair Basketball’s Community Awards 2026 have been confirmed.

Each category drew many nominations from across the wheelchair basketball community, highlighting the depth of dedicated individuals and groups within the BWB system. A huge congratulations goes to the winners listed below, where their achievements and reasons for being nominated are celebrated.

Services to Wheelchair Basketball

Each of the following individuals have been awarded the Services to Wheelchair Basketball:

• Jo Coates-McGrath
• Tina Gordon
• Niall Ritchie
• Garry Peel

Jo Coates-McGrath
Jo’s dedication to wheelchair basketball transformed the sport in Wales and touched the lives of countless players, coaches and volunteers. Through her unwavering commitment to inclusion and opportunity, she broke down barriers and helped create a more welcoming and accessible future for all. As one nominator reflected, “Without Jo, wheelchair basketball would not be where it is now in Wales.”

Her legacy continues to inspire generations across the wheelchair basketball community, making her a truly deserving winner of this award.

Tina Gordon
Tina has been a driving force behind wheelchair basketball for many years, opening doors for countless athletes and helping the sport become more inclusive, welcoming and accessible. Whether supporting young people through education, championing opportunities for women, or encouraging athletes to believe in themselves, her influence can be seen throughout the wheelchair basketball community.

“There is nobody in the UK wheelchair basketball world who does not know or has not felt the positive impact of her influence.”

Whether Tina is mentoring athletes, championing inclusion or building connections across the wheelchair basketball community, Tina always puts people first. The difference Tina has made to so many lives is a testament to her passion and dedication.

Niall Ritchie
For two decades, Niall has played a key role in the growth and development of wheelchair basketball, not just at Lothian Phoenix but across Scotland. Niall holds many different roles but his main priority as head coach has dedicated countless hours to supporting players, developing talent and strengthening the sport at every level. 

“As one of Basketball Scotland’s National Academy Coaches, Niall has supported numerous athletes to reach their potential, representing Scotland at U14, U18 and Senior levels, with several going on to secure professional contracts at European clubs.”

From grassroots participation to elite athlete development, Niall has played an important role in helping wheelchair basketball flourish across Scotland and beyond. The time, expertise and care he invests in others has helped countless players build confidence, achieve their goals and reach their potential.

Garry Peel
Garry’s commitment to wheelchair basketball spans an incredible 50 years, making a lasting impact on generations of players, coaches and clubs. From his achievements as a player and coach to his continued support of the game at all levels, he has remained a passionate and valued member of the wheelchair basketball community.

“He gives up so much of his time to the sport and doesn’t do it because he has to, he does it because he has a genuine love for the sport.”

Five decades on, Garry’s enthusiasm for wheelchair basketball remains as strong as ever, inspiring those around him and helping shape the future of the sport he has devoted so much to.

Club of the Year

Winner: London Titans

London Titans has continued to set the standard for what a wheelchair basketball club can achieve, combining competitive success with an outstanding commitment to inclusion, accessibility and community engagement.

Over the past year, the club has delivered a wide range of events and partnerships, including the Great Ormond Street Hospital Get Active Day, Parallel Windsor, the London Sports Festival, Power 2 Inspire and the Junior NBA Finals. Through these initiatives and an extensive junior engagement programme, London Titans has reached and engaged hundreds of people to experience wheelchair basketball.

More than just a basketball club, London Titans continues to break down barriers, inspire communities and create life-changing opportunities, showcasing exactly why they have been named Club of the Year.

Community Coach of the Year

Winner: Josh Whitwell (Mohawks)

Josh’s dedication, passion and commitment to developing players of all abilities has made a lasting impact on his club and community. Through his supportive and innovative coaching style, he inspires players to grow in confidence, develop their skills and enjoy the sport in a positive and inclusive environment.

As one player simply shared, “Mermy believes in me.”

Whether supporting beginners, challenging experienced athletes, or creating new opportunities for people to get involved in wheelchair basketball, Josh’s commitment to inclusion and player development is a true reflection of the Community Coach of the Year award.

Official of the Year

Winner: Emma Tomkinson

Emma’s dedication to wheelchair basketball goes far beyond the court. Across refereeing, technical and event roles, she consistently gives her time, expertise and energy to support the sport and the people within it.

As one nominator shared, “Emma’s passion and true care for the sport, the people, and the work that she does, is what separates her from the rest.”

Respected throughout the wheelchair basketball community, Emma’s professionalism, commitment and genuine care for others is recognised and is well deserving of the Official of the Year award.

Young Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Charlie Mailer (Lothian Phoenix)

Charlie’s passion for wheelchair basketball extends far beyond his role as a player. As a young volunteer, coach, and mentor, he dedicates countless hours to supporting others and helping more people enjoy the sport, all while continuing to develop his own skills and leadership.

As one nominator shared, “His natural empathy towards others, calm and supportive manner, coupled with a playful charm, certainly fetches the best out of the young players he coaches.”

Whether volunteering at community sessions, supporting events or inspiring the next generation of athletes, Charlie’s enthusiasm, leadership and commitment has set the mark for the Young Volunteer of the Year award.