Boccia player Reshad Saraj has taken a significant step in his career, receiving a call-up to Boccia UK’s World Class Programme. The 33-year-old, who has been part of the Talent Transition Squad, will now gain access to elite training, coaching, and support services, backed by UK Sport, The National Lottery, and DCMS. This achievement is a testament to Saraj’s dedication and perseverance in the sport.
Reshad has enjoyed an outstanding 2024 season, making remarkable progress in the world rankings. Starting the year at 43rd, he has climbed to 19th, thanks to his hard work and commitment. His breakthrough moment came in May, when he secured his first international gold medal at the Lahti Challenger in Finland. This victory, alongside his GB Championships gold, established him as one of the country’s top BC2 players.
Reflecting on his promotion, Reshad expressed his relief and excitement:
“When I got the news, it was such a big sigh of relief. I have worked so hard for 16 years to get here, together with my coach Sunil Birdy, and now everything is coming into place.”
He credits the Talent Transition Squad for providing essential training camps and coaching, which helped him develop and compete at the highest level.
As part of the World Class Programme, Reshad will now receive specialist coaching, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and sports psychology support. Training alongside elite boccia players, he is eager to continue improving and testing himself against the best and said:
“I am really looking forward to being with the squad and excited to see what the future holds.”
Speaking on Reshad’s call up, Head of Coaching and Development at PACE, Sunil Birdy said:
“Reshad has dedicated his life to the sport. His determination to beat the best, means he never backs down from a challenge. Being selected for the WCP is a fantastic achievement for Reshad, and everybody at PACE is delighted for him. This step he has taken doesn’t come as much surprise to us, we’ve seen what he can do for many years. Now it’s up to Reshad to show the world!”
With his recent success and continued development, Reshad Saraj is now firmly established on the international Boccia stage. His promotion to the World Class Programme marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, and all eyes will be on him as he aims for further success in the years ahead.
