Tips of the week

Monday, 15 June 2009

In the run up to Lloyds TSB National School Sport Week, the Youth Sport Trust talks to some of sport’s biggest stars to get their tips and advice. This week we speak to former British triple jumper Jonathan Edwards and wheelchair basketball player Ade Adepitan.

Jonathan Edwards

YST: What advice would you give to a young person thinking about trying a new sport?

JE: Find a good club, and do it with some pals if you can.

YST: What encouragement would you give to a young person who is starting to train more seriously in a chosen sport?

JE: Never lose the enjoyment factor.

YST: How would you encourage someone who isn't sporty to take part in Lloyds TSB National School Sport Week?

JE: There are lots of sports to choose from, so you might be surprised that you find something that takes your fancy. Also, you can get involved with judging/referreeing, sport can't happen without that.

YST: What will your Sports Pledge be for Lloyds TSB National School Sport Week?

JE: To do some fitness work with my two sons on a regular basis!

Ade Adepitan

YST: What advice would you give to a young person thinking about trying a new sport?

AA: My advice would be to go into it with an open mind. Don't worry if you're no good at first - everyone has to start somewhere! If you work hard, you'll start enjoying it and it will become part of your life.

YST: What encouragement would you give to a young person who is starting to train more seriously in a chosen sport?

AA: It sounds obvious but you need to make sure that it's something you actually want to do. Dedicate a specific amount of time to it per week, be organised and find a local club you can join where you can meet other athletes and share your experiences.

YST: How would you encourage someone who isn't sporty to take part in Lloyds TSB National School Sport Week?

AA: Don't worry about being shown up. Go into it with the right attitude and things will work out. Remember that a lot of the best athletes weren't very good when they first started! It's not about being the best in the world at a sport, it's about being the best that you can be.

Lloyds TSB National School Sport Week takes place from 29 June to 3 July 2009.

Click here for tips and advice from Marc Woods

Click here for tips and advice from Joe Glanfield

Click here for tips and advice from Rebecca Adlington

Click here for tips and advice from Jason Gardener

Click here for tips and advice from Rebecca Romero