GB calls up Jon to Rio sevens squad Motherwell’s Paterson in third Paralympics
Motherwell footballers Jonathan Paterson and Martin Hickman have won places in the squad who will fly to Rio to compete in seven-a-sides for Paralympicsgb.
Midfielder Paterson (28) is one of the two most experienced athletes in the team, having represented Paralympicsgb at Beijing 2008 and London 2012.
He said: “This will be my third Paralympic Games and I don’t think we’ve ever been stronger.
“The amount of progress we’ve made throughout this cycle has been impressive, and it’s great to have new faces on the team who have created greater strength in depth. I can’t wait to step on to the pitch for the first time in Rio.”
Martin Hickman was talentspotted at college and has been an integral part of the Scottish squad for years, representing his country all over the world.
He said: “I’m really buzzing to know that my place is confirmed on the team sheet for Rio 2016.
“It’s a real honour to represent your country at the Paralympic Games and I want to make everyone back at home proud.
“The competition will be fierce but it will make for an exciting tournament. I hope the nation gets behind us, it will really spur us on.”
David Porcher is a newcomer to the 14-man squad and Rio 2016 will mark his Paralympic debut. Captain Jack Rutter was inspired to aim for the Paralympics after watching London 2012.
Of the 14 athletes, all but two of the team make their Paralympic debut, with former Everton Academy player Michael Barker and veteran Jonathan Paterson returning after London to compete in their third Games.
England under-16 player Sean Highdale, who joined the national seven-a-side team after an acquired brain injury and former Tranmere Rovers forward Ollie Nugent are among the debutantes. The team has been drawn from several of the home nations, with players from the English, Scottish and Northern Irish squads, many of whom competed internationally at the recent World and European Championships.
Penny Briscoe, MBE, Paralympicsgb chef de mission for Rio 2016, said: “This is a fantastic and talented group of players and I’d like to pay credit to all of the home nations for the excellent work they have undertaken to identify new talent and to bring them through to compete on the international stage.
“I’d also like to congratulate the players for all their hard work.”