Sheffield played host this August to the largest British Transplant Games in history — a record‑breaking celebration of life, determination and the extraordinary impact of organ donation. Among over 1,200 transplant recipients and living donors competing across the city, SST Members and Students were out in force, forming a vital part of the Transplant Sport Therapy Team.
Forty‑six therapists volunteered this year, creating a multidisciplinary powerhouse of Sports Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and students from all disciplines.
Spread across athletics, cycling, table tennis, squash and tennis, the Therapy Team were impossible to miss in their fluorescent green shirts — a reassuring beacon for athletes pushing their limits.
For Jonathan Bull, a York St John graduate now working with York City FC Men’s U.18s, answering the call for volunteers proved transformative:
“This has been so rewarding. It’s so different from my experiences to date — working with inspirational athletes — and I’ve learned a lot.”
All therapists attended Mastering Therapy Skills for Transplant Athlete Success, a seminar delivered by SST Member Dr Michelle Evans. The session equipped volunteers with essential insight into supporting athletes who have undergone organ or stem cell transplantation — knowledge that proved invaluable throughout the Games.
Lead Therapist Alison Bloxham, who championed the multidisciplinary “Therapy Team” model some years ago, reflected on the strength of the group:
“The team is a great example of different professions working together for a common cause. They volunteer their time and expertise, and we just couldn’t do this without them.”
This spirit of collaboration was reflected in the recognition given to Physiotherapist Philippa Bromley, who received the Outstanding Contribution to Therapy, British Transplant Games 2026, for her dedication and service.
SST CEO Simon Bowen, who attended the Games, praised the commitment shown across the Therapy Team:
“We are delighted to continue our work with the Transplant Sport Therapy Team. It’s been fantastic to see our Members and Students here, to chat with them, and to watch how much they benefit from this experience. We hope that many more will sign up going forward, especially for both the 2027 British and World Transplant Games.”
As ever, the Games were a powerful reminder of the resilience, humility and joy of those living with organ and stem cell transplants. But they also highlight a stark reality: the UK’s organ transplant waiting list has reached record levels, now exceeding 8,000 people according to NHS Blood and Transplant.
💚 Find out more about organ donation
Interested in joining the Therapy Team at the World Transplant Games 2027? Find out more about the SST Travelling Scholarship and how to apply here. Applications close 1st September 2026.
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