A SPORTS initiative that raises funds for schools and professional athletes hit Coventry last month as a Team GB athlete visited city pupils.
Richard Parker showcased his skills to St Bartholomew’s Academy youngsters in Binley as part of the Sports for Schools initiative which raises funds to help purchase new sports equipment.
The event was the brainchild of PE teacher Ben Terry who introduced Richard to pupils before he held a question and answer session followed by a demonstration of what he does.
Ben said: “Sports for Schools is a charity organisation that encourages athletes to go into primary schools.
“They run sponsored fitness sessions and the money raised during the event is split between both the school participating and a sponsored athlete.
“It’s a lovely initiative and having Richard come along was really inspiring for the kids.
“Skating isn’t something you see on terrestrial TV, having Richard come in and show the kids what the sport is all about inspired many of them – it helped them realise there’s more than just football available out there.
“He was a great speaker and hopefully Richard’s work can help us get more youngsters into sport, they all thought it was great.”
It’s not just skating St Bartholomew pupils have been learning tricks to though, the school is also supported by Coventry Blaze and Wasps.
Both sides regularly visit the school with the aim of inspiring more youngsters into taking up sport.
Ben said: “Richard gave a little speech at the end and mentioned things such as never giving up and sticking to your goals, everyone was in awe of him.
“The school have been really supportive and we currently have nine different after-school clubs.
“Local teams including the Coventry Blaze and Wasps have been coming in too, it’s great fun.”
