Students meet the top athletes
Special conference held at climbing arena
Pupils from West Lothian’s s e co n d a r y schools attended a special Young Ambassadors Conference hosted by sportscotland.
As part of the National Lottery funded programme, each year sportscotland host six regional Young Ambassadors conferences across the country and two pupils from each secondary school in Scotland are invited to attend.
Over 50 secondary schools from the surrounding region attended the conference which took place at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena.
Led by Scottish Olympic silver medallist swimmer Robbie Renwick, the pupils gained an invaluable insight into the world of sport through the eyes of one of the country’s leading athletes.
Robbie said: “I’m always really impressed by the Young Ambassadors’ passion and dedication to make a difference in sport in their respective communities.
“Sport is such an important activity, both physically and mentally, and it’s encouraging to see how much the kids recognise that.”
The Young Ambassadors took part in a range of workshops with a team of Scottish athletes and sport development professionals, including former Scottish Rugby Sevens Captain, Colin Gregor, former swimmer, Caitlyn McLatchey, and former professional Paralympic athlete, Stefan Hoggan.
The athletes provided the pupils with support and advice to help them gain the skills, knowledge and understanding required to undertake their pivotal role within schools and wider communities as role models and leaders of other young people.
Stewart Harris, Chief Executive at sportscotland, said: “Our Young Ambassador conferences provide an opportunity for pupils across the country who are passionate about sport to make a difference.
“With the chance to meet skilled athletes and leading professionals, the pupils gain invaluable firsthand knowledge which will help them in their sporting journeys.
“Becoming a Young Ambassador is a fantastic role. Not only is it a great way to develop new skills, build confidence and meet like- minded people, but the programme helps youngsters develop as sporting leaders by influencing and reflecting the views of other young people.”
For more information on how to become a Young Ambassador, visit http://www.sportscotland.org.uk/ schools/young-ambassadors/.