It is a sport that captured the imagination at the London 2012 Paralympics – and wheelchair rugby is set to receive another major boost tomorrow, as Prince Harry takes part in a special exhibition match that will kick-start the Invictus Games.

News of the event, which will be held in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s Copper Box Arena, has been welcomed in Southampton, home to the thriving Solent Sharks team.

Committee member and player Gus McKechnie said: “It’s absolutely fantastic.

“It’s not just the Invictus Games, though. We have also got the Rugby World Cup coming next year, and there’s going to be an international wheelchair rugby tournament running alongside that in London.

“That’s only going to help us raise the profile further.

“We are in a great period right now where hopefully we will see the popularity of the sport build and build.”

Team Solent Sharks, who play in division two of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby’s Super Series, were founded two years ago and currently have more than 20 players from across the county, as well as a host of additional support staff.

They are based at Sports Centre St Mary’s, a facility owned by Solent University, who were key in the club’s formation.

“There was quite a lot of enthusiasm to get a team set up in the area, and Solent University were instrumental in helping to make that happen,” explained McKechnie, a cerebral palsy sufferer.

The Sharks receive coaching from London 2012 Team GB players Myles Pearson and Aaron Phipps, as well as Ricky Goddard, who was an official at the last Paralympics.

Their association with Solent also gives them access to the university’s extensive sports science expertise, which is used to improve players’ conditioning.

“To give you an idea of the kind of standard of help we’re getting, it’s the same facilities that Saints, Reading FC and also a couple of professional rugby clubs use,” said McKechnie.

The 38-year-old added: “The wonderful thing about the sport is that people with a whole range of disabilities can play it.

“It gives us the opportunity to get people with a range of disabilities involved, get them fit and inspired, and also build their confidence.

“It’s so fast moving, it’s great for anyone to watch. It’s a full-contact sport, and it’s probably the only one there is in the Paralympics.

“We’re always on the lookout for anyone who is willing to be part of the team in any way, and anyone who would like to give it a go.”

McKechnie added that any able-bodied people interested in giving the sport a go can also get in touch.

To find out more about the team, or to get involved, visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/teamsolentsharks