The Bigger Picture
26 Oct 2009 21:40
While I was in Denmark I only really had time to post scores and give you a very brief glimpse of what goes on at a major International competition. In actual fact the games themselves represent a fraction of the many other things going on in the background. As a squad we have to bear this in mind when we review our campaign. Obviously the end result is what people in the wider public focus on so it may seem like we have underperformed at these Championships.
However, we did achieve all our main aims and objectives. These were to get new squad members classified, to qualify for next year’s World Championships and to develop our emerging talent in a high-pressure environment. You simply can’t replicate the adrenaline that playing in these situations produces and so this court time is priceless for our up-and-coming stars. Despite our fourth place finish, GB had three team members represented on the all-tournament team, where players from each separate class are commended by their peers.
Even though we were all disappointed not to medal, it’s so important for us to see the bigger picture in the build up to 2012. GB have dominated Europe for years now but the groundwork we’re laying here will help us go on to challenge for medals on the World and Paralympic stage, which is our ultimate goal.
For a full BBC report on the European Championships please follow the link below…
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/disability_sport/8316472.stm
After a relaxing week off I went back to training today refreshed and ready for the next challenge. The European Championships was GB’s main focal point this year but there are still many other competitions we play in outside of International duty. Next week I’ll be travelling across the pond with my club team “London” to compete in two high calibre tournaments in London, Ontario and San Diego, California. This week will be spent preparing for these.
Lastly, this Friday marks a thousand days until the start of the London Olympic Games and to celebrate the occasion BBC Radio London (94.9 fm) will be broadcasting a special programme from the Olympic site in Stratford. I’ve been asked to appear on the show, which will air at breakfast time between seven and eight in the morning.