Gliders confirmed for final World Championship qualification push

The Gliders have locked in a full-strength team for the 2026 IWBF Women’s Repechage Tournament in Madrid, Spain, as they prepare for one final opportunity to qualify for the World Championships in Ottawa this September.

Continuing to build under Head Coach Jeremy Synot, the Gliders will head to Madrid for the 2026 IWBF Women’s Repechage Tournament from 8–11 June, where eight nations will compete for the final four qualification spots at the World Championships in Canada.

Synot said the group had continued to evolve both on and off the court.

“We had a really productive camp in May which played a key role in our selection process. The athletes have done a great job in their home programs with their DPE coaches and were able to showcase the improvements they’ve made since the Osaka Cup in February.

“We’ve also worked really hard off the court, reconnecting with our purpose as a group and reinforcing our goals and vision moving forward.”

The team will also welcome back Hannah Dodd, Laura Davoli and Isabel Martin following their overseas commitments.

Dodd has been competing professionally in Germany, while Davoli and Martin have been continuing their college careers in the United States at the University of Texas Arlington and the University of Alabama respectively.

Synot said the return of the trio would provide a major boost heading into Madrid.

“Having three players of their calibre return to the group is a huge boost for us. Isabel and Hannah are both Paralympians, so having athletes with that level of experience and capability will really complement our playing style and strengthen the group overall,” he said.

“Laura is coming off a successful first season in the US college system and went from strength to strength throughout last year’s WNWBL season. She’ll be a significant addition for us on both ends of the floor.”

The Gliders will come together for one final preparation camp next week before departing for Spain.

Synot said the final block of preparation would be critical ahead of the Repechage.

“It’ll be the first time we’ve had the entire group together since AOZ in 2025 and it gives us a valuable opportunity to fine-tune and work through our adjusted offensive and defensive structures,” he said.

“We’re hoping those adjustments will put us in the best possible position to achieve success in Madrid and secure a place at the World Championships in Canada this September.”