Wolverhampton University graduate wins European blind football bronze with England Para Lionesses

A University of Wolverhampton graduate is celebrating international sporting success after helping England secure a bronze medal in blind football.

Caitlin Leigh, July 2025 sports therapy graduate and scholar athlete, was part of the team that finished third at the 2026 International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) women’s blind football European championship.

In the tournament, held from October 3 to 7 in Istanbul, the graduate played for England’s women’s visually impaired football team the Para Lionesses.

Caitlin came on as a substitute in England’s third game, a 1-1 draw against Poland, then started the following two matches as England secured a third-place finish with a penalty shoot-out victory over the para neutral team.

Commenting on her time in the tournament, Caitlin said: “Getting to represent England at the European championships was an absolute privilege, especially becoming part of the starting line up at my first major championships.

“Having only started blind football in my last year of university at University of Wolverhampton, the progress and journey in that short period of time has been incredible and I am so grateful to the university for the support in the start of my journey.”

Marie Woodward, senior lecturer in sport and exercise therapy for the University of Wolverhampton, added: “Winning a European bronze medal is a fantastic accomplishment and reflects the commitment, resilience and determination needed to compete at this level.

“It is always wonderful to see our graduates succeeding after leaving Wolverhampton, and I’m sure Caitlin’s achievement will inspire our current students and other aspiring athletes.”