Chris Skelley’s sporting journey is an inspiring story of resilience, determination and reinvention. Having achieved Paralympic gold in judo, Chris later faced a major challenge when changes to his vision made him believe his rugby days were over.

Rather than letting that setback define his future, he continued pursuing his sporting ambitions and found a new path in visually impaired (VI) rugby. His journey has now brought him to an extraordinary milestone: being selected to represent England at the VI Rugby World Cup in Japan, taking on the role of vice-captain.

Japan holds a particularly special place in Chris’s story: it was where he reached the pinnacle of his judo career, and now it is where he gets to begin this exciting new chapter in rugby.
His journey is a powerful reminder that a change in circumstances does not have to mean the end of sporting dreams. From Paralympic champion to England rugby vice-captain, Chris continues to show what determination, adaptability and a love of sport can achieve.

Chris said: "Hull Ionians is where it all began".

Way to go Chris, everyone at Hull Ionians is super proud of you and we can't wait to see where this next journey will take you.