The European Games help instil the knowledge of what it means to be in Team GB and how special it is to be part of that environment
Britain’s chef de mission Mark England on the team’s amibitions at the inaugural event
What do the Games mean to Team GB?
The Games are an interesting concept. For a lot of our team — more than 50 of our athletes are under 18 — it is a chance for them to experience a major multi-sport event. But there’s also the aspect that for a number of sports, these Games merit ranking points to qualify for the Olympics next year. So our team is a good mix of impressive juniors and experienced seniors, of which more than 30 are Olympians from London 2012. We’re blessed with athletic talent.
Is there a medal target for the team?
It’s hard to focus on an exact target with a mix of juniors and seniors. So all we can ensure as a team is that the athletes have the best possible preparation and are in the right environment to perform to the best of their ability. If we do that, we’ve found in the past that the medal table looks after itself.
Is the bigger goal Rio next year?
Of course — that’s absolutely our priority. And if we can assist in that process, which includes qualifying for some events at these Games, then we’ll do whatever possible. We want to come away from Baku thinking we’re in better shape for qualifying for Rio. But the European Games help to instil the knowledge of what it means to be part of Team GB and how special it is to be part of that environment.
How do you think it will be received?
We’ve been spoilt in Britain in that the last two multi-sport events have been held here with the Olympics and Commonwealth Games in London and Glasgow respectively. It may well be that this is slightly off some people’s radars but people will get into it through BT Sport and BBC Sport has also been very supportive. The excitement will build as we get closer and what a fantastic opportunity for some of these sports that don’t normally get the spotlight.
What do you think the future is for the European Games?
It’s been a great journey and I think that question is answered by the number of sports that have backed it. And this one is only the first, with the next one already lined up for 2019.
What would be a successful Games for Team GB?
A successful Games would be measured across a number of areas. As I said, we haven’t set a medal target and we don’t intend to do so. We’re looking forward to our athletes bringing home a number of medals across a whole range of sports. And it’s all about preparation for the upcoming multi-sport events like the Olympics and the next Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in three years’ time.