How a sibling bet turned a librarian into a Steelers star

In a bid to erase the disappointment of Tokyo, the Australian Steelers are eyeing redemption in Paris.
The team’s unbroken Paralympic and World Championship finals reign came to a shock end after a 52-60 defeat to Japan in the bronze medal match.
But with a World Cup gold medal around their necks, Shae Graham believes the team has what it takes to reignite the golden era.
READ MORE: Liverpool debut Slot era as great’s reminisce survives
READ MORE: Cornes takes issue with ‘laughing stock’ Rachele act
READ MORE: Winger’s season over as careless tackle halts epic comeback
Shae Graham represents the Australian Steelers in 2019. Moto Yoshimura via Getty Images
“It was heartbreaking [placing fourth in Tokyo],” Graham told Nine’s Wide World of Sports.
“Coming into a team that had all that expectation of winning all the time to then not being able to do that was hard to experience.
“It gave us a moment to step back, reset and focus on what we want to make the Steelers.
“We’ve come together and created a new way of moving forward, wanting to win, and present ourselves as athletes.”
Watch every moment, every medal of the Paralympic Games Paris 2024 live and free on Channel 9, 9Gem and 9Now. Plus, every event streaming ad free, live and on demand with 4K on Stan Sport.
Graham’s introduction to the sport differed from those of her teammates.
Undertaking rehabilitation following a devastating car accident that left the then 18-year-old unable to walk, with a fractured spine and pelvis, brain injury and ruptured bladder, Graham made a simple bet with her brother.
Shinichi Shimakawa #13 controls the ball against Shae Graham #12 and Ryley Batt #3. Getty
Within a matter of time, the Melbourne-based librarian saw the bet became reality as her prior brutal assessment of the sport shifted to become one of great joy and determination.
In 2019, Graham made history as the first female to represent Australia in wheelchair rugby. In Paris, she will be joined by two female teammates.
“It’s been a really exciting period to be a member of the Steelers,” Graham said.
“I went into the game just wanting to represent my country playing a sport that I loved. Becoming the first woman to do that was an extra treat.
“Being a part of the Steelers as we really grow female participation in the sport and be the leader in that growth worldwide has been an amazing experience.”
The 12-player team will commence their Paralympic campaign against Great Britain on August 29.
Help Australia’s para-athletes get to Paris! Click here to donate.