Portsmouth student selected to represent England in VI Rugby

A final year student has been given the opportunity of a lifetime to represent England as part of the Visually Impaired (VI) Rugby Squad this year.

Andrew Fleet, who is currently studying Creative Media Technologies at the University of Portsmouth, was selected as one of twelve individuals to join the sporting team.

The game was developed by The Change Foundation charity, who aim to transform the lives of marginalised individuals through sport. It offers young people with sight loss the opportunity to play rugby in a way that is not too dissimilar to the mainstream sport. 

Andrew, who started playing rugby at school, thought his dreams of playing the sport were dashed once he faced challenges with his sight. However, he then discovered VI rugby through a friend and has never looked back.

Andrew said: “As a student who is visually impaired it is a real honour to make the team. Above all else, I wanted to say a real thank you to the University of Portsmouth for giving me the space to learn and grow my confidence in such a way that I am now going to represent my country.

“From being told I may not be able to play rugby for much of my life to now playing for my country is a weird but exciting feeling! I hope to attend trials for the World Cup next year and continue to play the sport for a long time as it is a huge part of my life.”

As part of the team, Andrew will have the opportunity to play the sport across the globe in locations such as Japan and Ireland, alongside a home game which friends and family can watch.

Jack Pearce, Captain of the VI Rugby Squad, said: “The whole squad is very excited about the opportunity to test ourselves against the best VI rugby nations in front of a home crowd for the first time. We're all really motivated to put our best foot forward and perform well in front of our friends and families that are coming to watch.

“Andrew has trained really hard this year and has very much earnt his place in the squad. He has excellent speed and stamina and an ever developing rugby IQ which will be a real asset to the team.”

Daniel Lineker, Programme Manager and Head Coach at The Change Foundation, said:

“I first met Andrew a few years ago when he attended his first VI Rugby session. It was immediately clear that he was eager to learn and deeply committed. Despite facing numerous setbacks throughout his life, Andrew demonstrated remarkable resilience and a passion that has driven him to where he is today.”

“Unfortunately, due to an injury, Andrew was unable to participate in the trials for our last tour to France. However, his dedication was evident as he attended the trials to support his teammates and gain insights by observing their performances. I am excited to have Andrew join this squad and look forward to seeing him bring his determination and skill to the field."