The Ultimate Comeback- The Pursuit Of Impossible Goals

James Simpson is a former British Army soldier turned elite wheelchair rugby league player and coach. After losing both legs in an IED explosion during his second tour in Afghanistan in 2009, James underwent extensive rehabilitation and learned to walk again using prosthetics. His resilience led him to discover Wheelchair Rugby League, where he became a founding member of the Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair team in 2012 which progressed to an extensive international career representing the England team in 2 world cups.

Over a decade-long playing career, James earned 31 caps for England, participating in the 2017 and 2021 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cups, with the latter culminating in a historic victory over France. He played in seven Grand Finals, winning titles in 2018 and 2021, and captained Leeds to three Challenge Cup victories and multiple League Leaders' Shields.

Following his retirement in 2022, James transitioned into coaching, becoming head coach of Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair team. Under his leadership, the team continued its dominance, reaching major finals and winning league titles. He also became the first Wheelchair Rugby League coach to earn a UKCC Level 3 Coaching Certificate, and has served as a passionate ambassador for the sport, helping raise its profile nationally.