Brad Mikkelsen is a pioneer within wheelchair rugby, and currently president of the International Wheelchair Rugby Foundation. He spoke to us during a recent visit.

The 2009 Wheelchair Rugby European Championships take place in Denmark between 14-17 October 2009. Head Coach of the Danish national team is Brad Mikkelsen, who is also the president of the International Wheelchair Rugby Foundation (IWRF). 

What are the prospects for the sport in general?

"The sport is growing rapidly. Every year we get more countries starting to play. It started out with three countries: Canada, US and Great Britain. In 1995, we held our first World Championship in Switzerland and from then on we just grew, particularly in Europe.”

What should we expect from this year’s European Championship?

"The competition is tough... very close actually. There are four teams competing on a really high level: Sweden, Great Britain, Finland and Germany. The rest of the teams are coming in really close. It is going to be more exciting than ever. I coach Denmark, and they stand a fairly good chance of qualifying for the World Championship in Canada next year."

Brad Mikkelsen

"Coloplast's products make it easier to compete"

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What role does Coloplast have in all this?

“Coloplast has for a long time been a reliable sponsor for wheelchair rugby globally, and has in this way contributed to the development of the sport. Another side to this is that Coloplast’s products make it easier to compete. Most guys I know use them. When being strapped in a chair, you really need to have confidence in the products you are using. They must be convenient, quick and reliable - and Coloplast’s products fulfil all this.”

Why should people come and watch the tournament?

“I think most people will be impressed by the game. It is a fun game to watch and as I said the competition is stronger than ever, so I expect some really interesting games.”