"I Still Feel Like I’m Dreaming": How Omer Hagomer Turned a Dream into International Success
Sport has never been just a pastime for Omer Hagomer, it has shaped his life. Born with spina bifida, the para-athlete is a full-time wheelchair user who has used pure determination to take his game from casual shootarounds to representing Wales on the international stage.
Hagomer’s wheelchair basketball story began in 2011. What started as shooting hoops downstairs in his home in Sudan quickly sparked an interest that would later transform his life. Recognising the power of sport early on, he channelled his enthusiasm into dedicated practice, building the strength and speed required to excel competitively.
That dedication paid off when Hagomer made his competitive Welsh debut at the British Wheelchair Basketball Home Nations tournament in Nottingham. Just weeks later, on September 4, 2026, he officially received his first cap for Wales, a milestone that marked his transition from ambitious newcomer to elite international competitor.
While Hagomer had a subtle inkling that he would have the talent to play for Wales, stepping onto the court made it a reality.
“It’s just an immense feeling of pride,” Hagomer reflected after receiving his cap.
“I still feel like I’m dreaming.”
Alongside his athletic achievements, Hagomer is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Sports Broadcasting at Cardiff Met. Balancing elite sport with academic stresses, he credits his university environment with accelerating his growth as an athlete.
“Cardiff Met have been amazing, giving me worldclass training opportunities and coaches.”
With a national cap now under his belt, Hagomer isn't slowing down. His focus remains fixed on pushing his limits, earning further caps for Wales, and setting his sights on selection for Great Britain.
“I made this dream come true, so why not?”
The latest generation of Welsh basketball players have undoubtably benefited from the trailblazers who have gone before. Joanna Coates-McGrath was a fundamental pillar of Welsh wheelchair basketball, dedicating her life to fostering an inclusive, empowering environment where disabled athletes could thrive. This not only transformed access to parasport across Wales but also built a foundation of community and resilience. Her legacy directly opens pathways for athletes like Omer, instilling the confidence to compete, lead, and represent disability sports on a bigger stage, proving that dedication off the court creates endless possibilities on it.
From shooting hoops at school to proudly wearing the Welsh jersey, Omer Hagomer’s journey proves that vision, grit, and the right support can turn dreams that seem impossible into reality.
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