Campaign Ambassador - Lauren Cooper

Name: Lauren Cooper

Sports/Activities: Netball, Amputee Football

Locality: Stevenage

Sport has always been a huge part of my life - playing, coaching and eventually becoming a PE teacher. In February 2022, after Storm Eunice, I became a lower‑leg amputee, and everything changed overnight. One of the biggest questions I faced immediately was, “What are you going to do for work now?” People were shocked when I said I planned to continue teaching PE. Yes, returning felt daunting, and I wasn’t sure if I’d ever play netball the way I used to, but I knew that giving up sport wasn’t an option.

My journey into disability sport began unexpectedly when I received an Instagram message from Owen Coyle, inviting me to a taster session for amputee football. Naturally, as with many other disabled individuals, there were barriers to me beginning that journey, not least that training required a 300‑mile round trip. Likewise, my first-choice sport of netball had limited opportunities for amputees, and fatigue was a constant challenge. There were also assumptions from others about what I could or couldn’t do, and I had the added difficulty of a higher injury risk due to damage to my remaining leg. Nevertheless, the right support made an enormous difference. My first physiotherapist understood how important netball was to me, so they incorporated netball skills into my rehabilitation from the very beginning. My current physiotherapist is also a netballer, which has meant my rehabilitation is tailored towards getting me back onto the court. My head teacher, PE department and students have supported me throughout, helping me stay connected to the sport and profession I love.

Looking ahead, I want to become more involved in disability sport governance and events, helping shape opportunities for others with disabilities. I’m hoping to develop and share plans for mobility netball, and I want to champion stronger disability inclusion in PE and across schools. My goal is to create environments where no young person, disabled or not, feels like their sporting journey ends when life changes.