Commonwealth Swimming Champion To Mentor Rhys Walker

LONDON – Feb 10, 2012: The Jaguar Academy of Sport is delighted to announce that Special Recognition Award Winner Rhys Walker will receive one-to-one mentoring from British swimmer Adam Whitehead.

At the 2011 Jaguar Academy of Sport Annual Awards, Rhys Walker was provided with a Special Recognition Award. In winning this award Rhys will receive a years worth of one-to-one mentoring from Adam Whitehead, former European and Commonwealth Champion. This one-to-one help and support from Adam will be invaluable for a young athlete and something that will allow Rhys to develop further and achieve his sporting goals.

Rhys, 18 year-old badminton player from Nuneaton, Warwickshire started playing at the age of eight and has competed both nationally and internationally. He is currently ranked No1 in the U19 boy singles, doubles and mixed doubles. Having won the singles national title for four years running and taking the triple crown of singles, doubles and mixed in 2011, Walker is now focusing on his singles career and currently trains up to 5 days a week with former England International and Senior Head Coach of the National Team, Steve Butler in Coventry, Warwickshire.

Adam Whitehead, also born in Nuneaton, is a British swimmer who enjoyed a 10-year career in the sport. He represented Great Britain at European, Commonwealth, World and Olympic level.

Adam’s achievements in sport are key to inspiring the next generation of British sporting talent. His success, experience and knowledge that he has gained over the years will make him a great mentor for Rhys.

Rhys Walker, Jaguar Academy of Sport Rising Star, commented: “I am delighted to have Adam as my mentor, we are both from the same area and I was even taught at school by his mum. He has had great success in his sport and I’m really looking forward to gaining the experience Adam has to offer.”

Adam Whitehead, Jaguar Academy of Sport Mentor, commented: “Rhys is a great lad and very determined to succeed. He has already achieved so much at such a young age and I’m looking forward to supporting him on his journey to the top. He is a great success story for our local area!”

The Jaguar Academy of Sport aims to recognise, celebrate and inspire the very best of British sporting talent and success. This is fulfilled through a Bursary Fund and a unique Mentoring and Education Programme delivered through a series of workshops and talent days. Mentoring is key to the Academy and provides all the Rising Stars with the non-financial support they need in order to be successful and this support, means our Rising Stars are able to work with Britain’s sporting greats and ultimately their heroes who they aspire to be.