Steph's journey into boccia began after high school when he found limited opportunities for disabled athletes. He discovered the Scottish Disability Sport website and was introduced to boccia by Jacqueline Lynn, who was then the Great Britain coach. His dream was to attend the Paralympics, and meeting Lynn was a pivotal moment in his career.

Memorable Achievements

One of Steph's most memorable achievements was winning gold at the 2016 World Individual Championships in Beijing, China. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career and solidified his status as a top competitor in the sport.

Injuries and Recovery

In January 2022, Steph sustained a broken knee and femur from a fall at home. This injury led to the longest break from boccia in his 17-year career. He underwent surgery and faced a challenging recovery period. By July 2022, he returned to international competition, demonstrating his resilience and determination.

Recent Challenges and Comeback

The period following his injury was one of the toughest cycles of his career. Battling injury and dropping out of the world's top 10 rankings required immense effort to secure a world number three spot. This achievement earned him one of the two remaining individual slots for Paris 2024, highlighting his perseverance.

Personal Life and Support System

Steph's partner, Michaela Rihackova, plays a crucial role in his life both personally and professionally. She serves as his coach and court assistant. Their routine before competitions involves walking around and discussing strategies for upcoming matches, which helps them prepare tactically.

Influences and Heroes

Steph draws inspiration from various athletes across different sports. His heroes include Hong Kong boccia player Leung Yuk Wing, Swiss tennis player Roger Federer, English snooker player Ronnie O'Sullivan, and Swedish footballer Henrik Larsson. These athletes have influenced his approach to boccia.

Educational Background

Steph holds a degree in Business Management from Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland. His educational background complements his athletic career, providing him with valuable skills off the court.

Ambassadorial Role

Apart from his athletic pursuits, Steph has served as an ambassador for Muscular Dystrophy UK. This role allows him to contribute to raising awareness about muscular dystrophy and supporting related causes.

Awards and Recognition

In March 2016, Steph was named Athlete of the Month by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). This recognition reflects his dedication and achievements in boccia over the years.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Steph aims to continue competing at the highest level. His immediate focus is on performing well at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. With his experience and determination, he remains a formidable competitor in boccia.

Steph's journey is a testament to his resilience and passion for boccia. Despite facing significant challenges, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to overcome obstacles and achieve success on the international stage.