Lightning star Alex so happy to be in the pink
TEEN BUYS COLOURFUL BOOTS THANKS TO SPORTSAID FUNDS
PINK Adidas rugby boots proved the perfect use of SportsAid’s funding for rugby union star Alex Baker, writes Will Jennings of Sportsbeat.
The 18-year-old plays for Loughborough Lightning and has also had a taste of the bright international lights through England Under-20s, currently brushing shoulders with Red Rose stars Emily Scarratt and Sarah Hunter at her club’s training.
Tyrrells Premier 15s side Lightning wear pink – and flyhalf Baker wasted no time in investing in new footwear to match when GVC Holdings and SportsAid came calling.
“It’s massively helped – I’ve been able to buy a new pair of pink Adidas boots that match the Loughborough Lightning kit!” said Baker, a beneficiary of GVC’s programme, which is part of the Pitching In initiative and supported by Paralympian Baroness Grey-Thompson.
“It will also definitely help with travel and nutrition – if we do manage to get down to some camps with England Under-20s it will help with petrol money.
“It really does give you an extra drive to know that there’s not just you, but there are other people behind you and supporting you as well.
“I hope SportsAid’s funding can help me break into the England set-up and achieve my long-term goals.”
GVC – owner of Ladbrokes and Coral – announced a threeyear partnership with SportsAid last year to help young athletes realise their potential and promote grassroots sport.
The investment will provide funding for training, travel and equipment and allow athletes access to mentoring by Olympians and Paralympians on topics such as nutrition and sports psychology.
Baker has World Cup aspirations with England and hopes the impact of GVC and SportsAid’s support can propel her to the greatest heights of all.
Jane Hunt, Conservative MP for Loughborough, said: “It’s fantastic to see that Alex is getting support from Pitching In with GVC and SportsAid, in recognition for her achievements in rugby.
“We need to keep on supporting our young athletes, especially at this difficult time for everyone.
“Loughborough has a proud sporting tradition and is renowned as a centre of sporting excellence around the world.
“Alex is living proof of that, and I wish her the very best in her rugby journey.”
GVC is proud to be championing the next generation of British sporting heroes by providing talented young athletes with financial support and personal development opportunities in partnership with SportsAid.
As part of this three-year partnership, GVC are supporting a diverse group of 50 UK athletes per year from a variety of spots and para-sports.
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