Simmonds returns to pool to inspire next generation
28th November 2012
London 2012 golden girl Ellie Simmonds has returned to the pool to help inspire the next generation of Olympic and Paralympic swimmers in the UK.
The four-time Paralympic champion joined up with teammates from the British Gas GBR Disability Swimming Team to run a masterclass for nine to 14-year-olds from the Swim Wales disability talent ID programme and local swimming clubs.
I love what I do and I want to show both disabled and able-bodied children how great swimming is.
Simmonds was named as one of the 12 athletes on the shortlist for BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2012 on Monday after captivating the nation by winning two golds, a silver and a bronze at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
And the 18-year old admitted she was determined to inspire as many people in and out of the water.
“It’s been an incredible year for me and I’m so pleased that everything came together so brilliantly,” said Simmonds.
“I love what I do and I want to show both disabled and able-bodied children how great swimming is.
“If my achievements in London and my performances at global events as part of the British Gas GBR Disability Swimming Team can inspire kids to work hard and become Paralympic or Olympic athletes, that will be amazing.”
British Swimming are supporting Ellie in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards. Don’t forget to vote when lines open.
- Do you Tweet? If so, use the hashtag #Vote4Ellie on all your Tweets to spread the word.
