NI Academy star, Katie Morrow, has been selected as part of the GB Women’s team heading to the 2024 edition of the Osaka Cup in Japan. The 2016 Paralympian returns to the GB Senior Women’s squad having recently won a Silver medal at the Under 25’s World Championships in Thailand, which also saw her named in the All Star team for the competition.

A mixture of experience and youth make up the squad, whose last competition was a successful European Championships in 2023 where they secured their place at the fast approaching Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The Osaka Cup (February 16th – 18th) is a key preparation point for the GB Women ahead of Paris 2024.

During the tournament, also known as the ‘Friendship Games’, the squad will play Australia, Thailand, and hosts Japan in a series of friendlies alongside community and junior activities.

GB Women’s Head Coach Miguel Vaquero commented:
“We will go to the [Osaka Cup 2024] to continue building the team, to keep working on our style and run various line-ups and ideas. We have been working hard in camps, and we’re getting closer to the Paralympic Games, so it is important for us to keep building the confidence in the team and keep working on our principles. We are excited to go to Japan and play some basketball!”

GB Women’s team competing at the Osaka Cup 2024:

Sophie Carrigill – 1.0
Jodie Waite – 1.0
Kayla Bell – 1.5
Joy Haizelden – 2.5
Maddison Martin – 3.0
Amy Conroy – 4.0
Katie Morrow – 4.5
Lucy Robinson – 4.5
Jade Atkin – 4.5
Robyn Love – 3.5
Maddie Thompson – 4.0
Laurie Williams – 2.5

Everyone at Disability Sport NI wish Katie and the rest of the squad and staff the best of luck as they head out to the competition.

Katie Morrow in action at U25 World Championships (SA Images IWBF)