Coach knew EK kid would be the best
Pam Clark’s former coach admits she knew the British champion would be a star from an early age.
Olivia Sorbie is saddened to hear the 21-year-old call time on her career after a year in which she was snubbed for Britain’s Olympic team.
But the former hairdresser, who coached Pam at East Kilbride Trampoline Club when she was between the ages of five and 17, is thrilled she managed to achieve her potential on the British stage, even if she was denied the opportunity of Olympic glory.
Olivia first noticed Pam’s talent at the age of four when she spotted her on a trampoline at a party.
Since then Olivia helped Pam become one of Britain’s best, moving through the different age levels and grades before leaving for Liverpool and becoming a senior British champion.
“I knew she would be successful because she was fearless – and mad,” said Olivia with a chuckle.
“I knew if she channelled that properly she would have what it takes to be a champion.
“She would throw herself at anything and had great spacial awareness. Pam gave absolutely everything in her routines.
“When she started aged five, you could see she had something.
“I was delighted to see her become British senior champion – but not making the Olympics is a real shame. I know she would have shone in Rio because Pam was always capable of pulling off her best performances in big events.”
I knew she’d be successful because she was fearless
Olivia reckons Pam has quit the sport too early but wishes her all the best for the future.
She said:“I’m really sad that she’s stopped. I think she had a few years left in her.
“But I know she wasn’t enjoying the training and how much time she was spending down there.
“She’s picked a time that she’s happy with and that’s fine.
“I know she’s got a career she wants to focus on now.”