Games has Seain craving glory
Perthshire beach volleyball player Seain Cook is reflecting on a memorable experience at the Commonwealth Games.
The former Breadalbane Academy student proudly represented Team Scotland in the Gold Coast as the sport made its event debut.
Alongside partner Robin Miedzybrodzki, the Scottish pair advanced through the group stage to setup a quarter-final match with England.
It wasn’t to be this time around but Seain admits competing at the Games has fuelled his ambitions further.
“The experience does make me want to push on and become a better athlete,” he explained to the Perthshire Advertiser.
“And hopefully the outcome of being a better athlete will allow me to represent Scotland and medal at major team events.
“There was definitely a buzz that grew throughout our time in Australia.
“After the opening ceremony the village was electric as everyone was ready to compete. I did go to the opening and it was a superb experience.
“And I also managed to go and see other sports, watching some table tennis and then went to the rugby sevens.
“I did watch a lot of beach volleyball as well.”
Seain’s time on the sand was special - especially taking to the court for the opening match.
The Scots battled to an epic 21-15, 18-21, 16-14 victory against Sri Lanka before moving on to record a win over Sierra Leone.
“Being called out onto the sand as a team for our first match was an incredible moment and I felt so much pride for our team,” Seain said.
“It was a big first game and we didn’t know much about the team we played as we couldn’t get much video.
“Initially we had to figure out our tactics while in game and the match was an absolute battle.
“It was fun to be part of and set us up well for the rest of the competition.
Seain (right) loved his Commonwealth Games experience
“We knew after our match with Canada that we would get either England or New Zealand. We were relaxed going into the quarter final.
“I think the team’s performance shows that there is skill here in Scotland.
“And with the right help we can create a solid future in the sport with international opportunities for medals.”