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- graeme@pkds.org.uk
Brogan's Story
Brogan Dodds: A Sporting Inspiration from Auchterarder
At just 23 years old, Brogan Dodds from Auchterarder is proving that, nothing in sport is impossible. Living with Down’s Syndrome has never been a barrier for Brogan - rather, it has been part of a journey filled with determination, achievement, and inspiration.
Brogan’s love for sport began at the age of three when her mum, Kerry, took her to a local gymnastics class, Tumbling Tots. It helped her grow in confidence, make new friends, and discover just how capable she was. She soon started swimming lessons and it was clear from the start that she was a natural in the pool.
With her natural talent and growing love for swimming, Brogan began training with Crieff Stingrays Too Disability Swim Club under the guidance of coach Kim Marshall. Her competitive spirit shone through at her very first gala, where she proudly competed for medals. This event marked the beginning of a blossoming pathway in disability sports.
Brogan continued to thrive under Kim’s mentorship, not only in swimming but through Sportability, a multi-sport session that exposed her to a variety of new activities and friendships. When this came to an end following Kim’s retirement, another door opened thanks to Perth & Kinross Disability Sport (PKDS). It was here that Brogan and her family met Graeme Doig, who introduced her to new opportunities including Athletics, Badminton, Archery and Boccia.
Brogan’s mum, Kerry told us:
"She thrives on being part of a team and absolutely loves being around people. Sport has been amazing for her confidence – she’s constantly meeting new people and building friendships."
While Brogan enjoyed archery, it was Boccia that truly captured her heart. She has since become a key member of both the Perth Eagles and PKDS Crieff Boccia sessions, and now plays for the UHI Perth team. In 2024, Brogan was part of the winning team at the PKDS Teams Boccia Championships and in April 2025, Brogan teamed up with her close friends, Archie Graham and Daisy Dickson and won the gold medal at the Dumfries & Galloway Disability Sport Teams Boccia Championships.
Brogan told us:
"I don’t have a favourite sport, as boccia and swimming are so different from each other and I love them both"
Alongside her achievements in Boccia, Brogan continues to excel in swimming, under the coaching of Stuart Farmer and the team at Perth Dolphins Disability Swim club. Brogan proudly competes in national events such as the British Down’s Syndrome Swimming Championships in London - where she won four medals, including three gold!
Brogan’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Earlier this year, she was named a finalist for the Disability Sport Personality of the Year at the Perth & Kinross Sports Awards - incredible recognition of her hard work and dedication.
When asked about challenges along her sporting journey, Brogan said she hasn’t faced any significant obstacles, thanks to the inclusiveness and variety of sessions offered by PKDS. Her positive experience highlights the power of accessible sport in changing lives.
Brogan is quick to acknowledge the support of those who have helped her along the way: Graeme Doig, Kim Marshall, Stuart Farmer, and Stewart Lobban, along with her family, have all played key roles in her development and success.
Graeme Doig, Branch Coordinator at Perth & Kinross Disability Sport added:
"Brogan brings such positive energy to every session she attends, her infectious laugh brings a smile to all and I am increasingly impressed with her ability to adapt her skills across a wide range of sports."
Looking to the future, Brogan is excited to continue improving her personal best times in all four swimming strokes and participate in more Boccia and swimming competitions.
Brogan’s mum told us, their message to others is simple:
"We think anyone with a disability should give sport a go, as it’s a great way of improving your health and wellbeing. You may find a sport you love that you never thought about trying. PKDS offer so many different sporting opportunities in our local communities."
Brogan Dodds is more than an athlete—she’s a role model whose story reminds us all of the power of perseverance, community, and the joy of sport.