Wheelchair Tennis World Championships

On Friday afternoon, eight pupils across year 7 and 8 were invited along to Bolton Arena by the LTA Tennis for Britain, for a behind the scenes tour of the Wheelchair World Championships that has been taking place over the past fortnight.

The pupils had access to all areas of the tournament, inspecting the variety of wheelchairs – some costing upwards of £10,000, speaking with the umpires and organising team. The highlight of the visit for everyone was speaking with many of the tennis players. Gaining insight to the barriers faced with disability sport as well as the amazing lengths some of the players went to in order to make themselves a success in their sport.

It was a huge honour to have the opportunity to talk to Tokyo 2020 silver medalist and current GB number 1, Lucy Shuker. Lucy was truly inspirational as she told her story of how a motorcycle accident just after her 21st birthday left her paralysed, but not allowing this life changing event get in the way of her dream to be a professional sportswoman, she picked up a tennis racket for the first time and worked tirelessly as she went on to play at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, numerous Wimbledon finals and being the proud owner of a Paralympic bronze and silver medal.