Sporting pair honoured for achievements
TWO Stockport athletes have won top accolades at this year’s Greater Manchester Sports Awards.
Jessica EadsforthYates, 17, was named Sports Achiever of the Year, while Andy Small, 23, received Disabled Sports Achiever of the Year.
The pair, who are both supported by Life Leisure’s David Hopkins Foundation, were put forward for the award by their clubs, relatives and Sport Stockport following their success at the annual Stockport Sports Awards.
Jessica received her award for her outstanding achievements playing basketball.
As well as playing in the England Under 18s squad, she plays in the National League at both Under 17 and Under 19 level.
Her mum, Kelly Eadsforth-Yates said: “Jessica’s daily routine involves studying for her A-levels and then taking part in three to four hours of team, individual, and strength and conditioning training – it’s extremely tough.
“She moved away from home at just 16 so that she can receive the best possible training.
“Her main goal this year was the European Championship and she made it. It just goes to show that hard work pays off.”
Wheelchair racer Andy Small won a bronze medal in the T33 100m at this year’s Paralympic Games.
Andy was inspired to take up the sport after watching David Weir in action at London 2012.
He approached Stockport Wheelchair Racing Group and started his impressive journey to the Rio Games.
His coach Rick Hoskins said: “Andy is continually looking to improve his performance and trains six days a week.
“His achievements are even more incredible given that unlike many other athletes, he receives no funding from UK Sport and competes in a borrowed club chair.
“However, he has overcome this difficulty by upping his training and is recording world level times. His coach predicts that in a bespoke chair, Andy would be racing at world record pace.”
Malcolm McPhail, CEO of Life Leisure, said: “It’s inspiring to see the amazing achievements of these two talented athletes this year and I’m incredibly proud that Life Leisure has been able to support them in their efforts.
“We all congratulate them on these welldeserved awards and I hope their success will inspire people in Stockport to take up sport themselves.”