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My Story

Nicola discovered boccia in autumn 2023 and has made extraordinary progress in a very short time. In less than two seasons, she’s become one of the sport’s most exciting rising athletes – and an inspiring advocate for inclusive sport in her community.

After starting to compete in spring 2024, Nicola quickly made her mark by winning both Heathcoat Cup qualifiers and taking Gold at the Heathcoat Cup Finals – an outstanding achievement in Boccia England’s second-tier competition series. She went on to qualify for the National Championships, finishing 6th, and also captured Gold in the team eventbefore qualifying as a referee.

Building on that success, Nicola stepped up to the National Championship Qualifiers in the 2024/25 season, achieving:

  • 7th place (Nov ’24)
  • 3rd place (Jan ’25)
  • 1st place (Mar ’25)
    She also won Gold in the team event that March and went on to take Bronze at the Boccia England National Championships in May 2025.

  • Her growing reputation has led to multiple invitations to England Pathway and Boccia UK Development Group training camps, working alongside GB coaches and World Class Programme athletes. Most recently, Nicola was selected to represent England at the UK Championships in Northern Ireland (December 2025) and named to the Boccia England Player Panel.

  • Beyond competition, Nicola has channelled her passion into giving back. She recently founded Suffolk Boccia, a thriving club running fortnightly sessions in Stowmarket for players of all abilities – from complete beginners to ex-GB athletes – across a range of physical and learning disabilities.

  • Nicola’s journey is a brilliant example of what can be achieved through dedication, opportunity, and community spirit – a true ambassador for the values of SportsAid Eastern.