Scott McCowan announces boccia retirement

Three-time British Paralympic boccia player Scott McCowan has announced his retirement after 16 years in the sport.

McCowan, 31, made his Paralympic debut at London 2012 and went on to compete alongside younger brother, Jamie at Rio 2016 and the delayed Tokyo 2020 Games, where he finished just outside the medals in fourth in the BC3 category.

Boccia has always been a big family affair for the McCowans with Dad, Gary, travelling the world as Scott’s ramp assistant – and Mum, Linda, undertaking the same role for Jamie. In fact, the foursome all appeared on court as Scott and Jamie drew each other in their first-round pool match in Tokyo.

McCowan was a firm fixture on the international World Cup circuit and won medals at the European Championships and the World Championships in the BC3 Pair. But now he wants to turn his attention to coaching.

McCowan said: “This was always going to be a difficult decision for me and my family after so many years in the sport. But I’m not stepping away entirely as I have decided to focus on coaching and I will hopefully be in Paris to cheer on my girlfriend, Claire Taggart, my brother Jamie and the rest of the squad.

“I would never have had this career without the unlimited support of my parents. They have gone through all the highs and lows that sport brings but I believe it’s time my Dad had a well-earned rest!”

Glynn Tromans, Performance Coach, said: “I’ve coached Scott for more than a decade and he and his family have shown huge dedication which has maintained his place as one of the world’s best BC3 boccia players. He is a fierce and uncompromising competitor with incredible tactical skills and will be a huge asset to the sport as a coach bringing on the next generation of talent.”

Penny Briscoe OBE, ParalympicsGB Chef de Mission said: “Scott has been a stalwart of the ParalympicsGB boccia squad for many years and we will miss his incredible talent on the court – and his wit and charm off it. I’m delighted therefore that Scott has chosen to stay connected to the sport in a coaching capacity and look forward to seeing him progress in this role.”