NEWS ARCHIVE
Potential Sporting Champions Put Through Paces
Cornwall's young sportsmen and women have shown off their skills in a bid to be accepted onto some of Cornwall College's many sports teams.
Students from schools across the county, due to start at Cornwall College in September, converged on Cornwall College sites in Camborne, Saltash, St Austell and Newquay, as well as Duchy College in Stoke Climsland and Rosewarne, and Falmouth Marine School, to travel to Tregorrick Park in St Austell for this year's sports trials. From there some students stayed at the Park and others were transported to Par Athletics Club, Poltair School and Polkyth Leisure Centre.
Those vying for sporting roles included pupils from Poltair, Penrice, Callington, Pool, Brannel, Hayle and Fowey schools, as well as current Cornwall College students.
Gary Wheildon, Senior Tutor and Director of the Football Academy, was delighted with the outcomes of the day as he praised all involved: “It was a great day, the attitude of everyone was first class. The coaches planned an exciting, innovative day, the new students were positive throughout. Their skill level and commitment showed us that there is again plenty of potential in the students coming to Cornwall College. Many of our current students also turned out to help with the sessions, all in all a very rewarding experience.”
Ryan Lucas who runs the girls Football Academy held a trial game for some of his new recruits against Exeter College which enabled new and current students to mix in a competitive situation. Ryan commented: “The girls went two down, fought back to two-two, conceded two late on an experience you can’t buy fantastic day.”
The College Sports Academy Programme offers competitive opportunities in over twenty sports. The latest trials took place for basketball, soccer, girls’ soccer, rugby, hockey, and volleyball.
Russell Lawrance, Director of Sport at Cornwall College, said: “Cornwall College aims to provide all learners with the opportunity to succeed at sport. The sports trials give new students the chance to play competitive sport at both an elite and development level. "
More and more students take part in the sports trials each year, and this year was no exception with over a hundred students taking part.
Dave Linnell OBE, Principal of Cornwall College, said: "This year's trials have highlighted a number of students with a lot of potential to do well in their chosen sport. The provision for sport at Cornwall College is constantly increasing. We encourage our students from all course areas to get involved in extra-curricular activities and sport is a major part of this, particularly in its promotion of fitness and teamwork."
Further opportunities will be given for students to gain selection for places in teams once they start at the College in September.
