We caught up with talented Year 8 athlete, Thea, to learn about her passion for gymnastics and sport, her training routine and her goals for the future.
What’s your favourite sport?
My favourite sport is gymnastics. When I was four years old, I went to a gymnastics camp and really enjoyed it. That’s when I decided to start doing gymnastics. I also play netball, hockey, rounders, cricket and athletics.
What clubs or teams are you a member of?
I’m a member of Heart of England Gymnastics Club. Training with the club has really helped me to improve and has shown me what my body is capable of. In school, I’m a member of the hockey, netball, rounders, cricket and athletics teams. Playing on these teams has improved my leadership skills and I’ve made loads of friends along the way.
How many hours a week do you spend training?
I spend 8.5 hours a week doing gymnastics. I also spend up to 4 hours a week training in other sports.
What do you enjoy most about sport?
The thing I enjoy most about sport is that I get to play with my friends. I also like learning new techniques.
What is your greatest achievement so far?
Winning the inter-house championships at my gymnastics club is probably my greatest achievement. I was also proud to qualify for the ISA Nationals.
Have you faced any setbacks or challenges?
During the pandemic, I lost a lot of my bar skills and had to train hard to get them back. It wasn’t easy, but I was so happy when I did!
Tell me about Kingsley’s Talented Athlete Programme?
The Talented Athlete Programme is great for people like me who do a lot of sport. I’ve taken part in seminars on a range of topics, including injury prevention and recovery, building confidence and resilience and understanding the role of nutrition in sport. As well as helping me improve as an athlete, the programme supports me in managing the demands of training and competition alongside my school work.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to take sport for GCSE because it will help me in the future. My goal is to pass all my gymnastics grades and compete for Britain.
