Gemma Lumsdaine

Athlete, coach, disability sport advocate

Sport
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Gemma is a 23 year old wheelchair athlete from Monifieth, who is a member of the GB Wheelchair Rugby Talent Squad which helps to prepare athletes to make the step to the Paralympic Squad. Gemma is also in the Scottish Disability Sport Athlete Academy.

Prior to competing in wheelchair rugby Gemma played wheelchair basketball at a national level. She also coaches wheelchair sports for Dundee Dragons Wheelchair Sports Club and won the COVA Young Coach of the Year in 2018.

As well as being athlete and coach Gemma sits on the Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Advisory Board and has been a member of the Scottish Disability Sport Young People’s Panel. She now supports and mentors the newly formed board.

During the pandemic Gemma worked tirelessly to provide support and engagement opportunities for people with a disability which included weekly workout sessions and talks by Paralympians. She has been also run workshops and delivers training on areas related to disability sport, mental health and wellbeing. Gemma has spoken at conferences and events about issues relating to disability and inclusion and has been recognised as one of the most inspirational young women in Scotland by the YWCA. Gemma has recently completed a degree in Sports Development and Coaching at Abertay University and hopes this will help to progress her career in disability sport.

Being involved in disability sport has been life changing for me. I really hope I can help more people with disabilities to become active, as I know first-hand how beneficial participating in sport and/or physical activity can be for both your physical and mental health.”