Tournament costs barrier to disabled people, says England Deaf Rugby player
Taylor Morris is representing the country in the Deaf Rugby Sevens - in Toyko, but now must find thousands of pounds to get there
A deaf rugby player from Worthing - picked to play for England - says tournament costs are a huge barrier for disabled sportspeople.
Taylor Morris is representing the country in the major Deaf Rugby Sevens tournament in Toyko, but now must find £2500 for flights and accommodation.
"It was all gearing up to this point and it was a long time waiting as well," he told Greatest Hits Radio.
"I was just overwhelmed with happiness and surprised that I made it.
"But going from that to then obviously having to self-fund kind of brings that emotion down a little bit." It follows a lifelong journey for the 31-year-old, who doctors had predicted would be unable to take part in any sports because of being unable to hear on his right side.
"To pull on the England shirt after everything my parents and I were told when I was born is something I'll never take for granted," he shared.
"Representing England is one of the proudest achievements of my life. It's proof that someone else's expectations don't have to become your limits."
But Taylor added that a lack of sponsorship for disabled sportspeople is halting their careers before they've even begun. "I know at least one player who's decided not to trial out for the Sevens Championship because he was too afraid that he wouldn't be able to afford it.
"People, unfortunately, don't go for it because of that, and that means talent pool is lost because of it."
He is now appealing to businesses and individuals for sponsorship or donations to help him reach Japan.
"Every contribution, no matter the size, helps me represent my country and the deaf community on the world stage," he said.
"Sometimes the greatest achievements begin with someone refusing to accept the word 'can't.'
"If a little boy who was told he would never ride a bike or play sport can grow up to become a Senior Physiotherapist, play for Hove Rugby Club and represent England at a Rugby World Cup, then maybe our potential isn't decided by the challenges we're born with, but by the determination we show every day afterwards."
You can donate to Taylor here.