Student pivots into international competition

The 17-year-old took up gymnastics aged five by following in her mum’s footsteps and joining the Barnsley Gymnastics Club. She now trains at Gymmagic in Leeds, where she was crowned with a Gold medal at the English Championships.

Megan of Burton Bank Road, will compete against some of the best gymnasts on the international circuit in Germany and trains for 27 hours a week to perfect her routines, working on her balance, strength, flexibility, agility, coordination and endurance.

Megan is part of the Barnsley Sports Academy within College and works on her strength with the coaching staff. This has enabled her to access an Elite Sports Performance Bursary to fund aspects of her competition such as equipment and travel.

Megan, a Mathematics, Economics and Business A Level student, said: “I’m an artistic gymnast which requires me to perform short routines on vault, pommel horse, parallel bars, balance beam and floor exercises. It’s hard work but I enjoy every minute. I’m looking forward to competing in a prestigious international event and gaining experience from it.

“The support I have received from the Sports Academy has really helped me to pursue my goals in gymnastics and Barnsley Sixth Form College has enabled me to fit my training around my studies with a personalised timetable.”

Barnsley Sports Academy offers fantastic facilities and a team of expert and specialist coaches supporting talented sports performers in any discipline. Academies include Football (male and female), Rugby, Netball, Basketball, Refereeing and Individual Athlete Academy.

To find out more about Barnsley College and the Barnsley Sports Academy call 01226 216 123.