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Brad Grove honoured with Life Membership of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia

Brad Grove has become just the second person in history to be awarded Life Membership of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia, receiving the organisation’s highest honour during the 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair National Championships on the Gold Coast on Sunday.

The honour was presented in front of teammates, competitors, officials, volunteers and supporters from across the Wheelchair Rugby League community, recognising Brad’s extraordinary contribution to the sport over more than 15 years.

Life Membership recognises individuals whose service, leadership and contribution to Wheelchair Rugby League have been truly exceptional, and whose legacy will continue to shape the game for generations to come.

Since Wheelchair Rugby League Australia was established, the honour has only previously been awarded to Joseph Chidiac, whose vision and leadership laid the foundations for wheelchair rugby league in Australia and whose name the National Championships proudly bear.

Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Chair Darren Gocher said Brad’s impact on the sport extended far beyond his outstanding playing career.

“Brad has been there from the very beginning, helping build Wheelchair Rugby League into the sport it is today.

“His playing record speaks for itself, but what sets Brad apart is the way he has led our game with humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment to his teammates and the wider Wheelchair Rugby League community.

“Whether representing New South Wales, captaining the Wheelaroos or mentoring those coming through the ranks, Brad has always put the sport before himself.

“Life Membership is reserved for those whose contribution has fundamentally shaped our game, and Brad is a thoroughly deserving recipient of this honour. His legacy will continue to inspire players, volunteers and officials for many years to come,” said Darren.

A pioneer of the sport, Brad has been involved in Wheelchair Rugby League since 2010, playing a significant role in its growth from its formative years into the high-performance game it is today.

Over more than a decade, Brad has established himself as one of the game’s most respected players and leaders. His resilience, humility and unwavering commitment to growing Wheelchair Rugby League have earned him the respect of teammates, opponents and the wider Rugby League community alike.

On the international stage, Brad became the most capped Wheelaroo in history, representing Australia on 21 occasions across 13 years. He captained the Wheelaroos on 10 occasions, including at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup, earning widespread respect for both his performances and his leadership.

Earlier this year, Brad announced his retirement from international competition after more than a decade representing Australia. In stepping away, he chose to focus on his family while creating opportunities for the next generation of Wheelaroos to pursue their Rugby League World Cup dreams – a decision that reflected the selfless, team-first approach that has defined his career.

Brad Grove

Brad said receiving Life Membership was both unexpected and deeply humbling.

“I honestly didn’t expect it.

“I feel like I’ve gained so much from the sport, both on and off the pitch, whether through my involvement behind the scenes or as a player.

“It’s incredibly special to have the time, effort and contribution I’ve made to the sport recognised in this way. I’m a bit speechless, to be honest, but very honoured and grateful,” said Brad.

Brad capped off the day by helping New South Wales claim the 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair National Championship, adding a team triumph to an already memorable occasion.

While Brad’s international playing career has come to an end, his contribution to Wheelchair Rugby League is far from over. His influence continues through the players he has inspired, the standards he has set and the strong foundations he has helped build for future generations.

As only the second recipient of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Life Membership, Brad’s recognition reflects an outstanding playing career and a lasting contribution to the growth, culture and future of the sport.
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