Skip navigation

Gloucestershire Business News

Paralympian shares extraordinary story with students

Paralympic gold medallist Kylie Grimes gave an inspirational talk to students and staff from the University of Gloucestershire.

Kylie was the only female member of the Team GB wheelchair rugby squad which won gold at the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo this summer - the first European team ever to win a medal in the sport.

Kylie commuted weekly from Surrey for training with the strength and conditioning team at the School of Sport and Exercise at the university, as part of her preparation for the competition.

Still training at the university, Kylie highlighted the determination and drive required to compete successfully on the world stage, in her talk and Q&A session with students and staff.

Kylie, who also represented Team GB at the 2012 and 2016 Paralympics, said: "Winning the gold medal was an unbelievable achievement that had taken years of sacrifices and dedication. I'm so proud to have won with the team after 13 years of playing.

"I enjoy sharing my journey through three Paralympics and hope that people will be inspired to work hard or achieve their dreams also.

"I hope the students at the University of Gloucestershire take away some valuable points like resilience, commitment, dedication and the importance of teamwork to help them on their journeys through university and life in general."

Edward Baker, lecturer in sport and exercise, strength and conditioning at the university, said: "Kylie has a unique story about overcoming adversity and rising to the highest level in Paralympic sport and we were delighted that she was willing to talk about her experiences.

"Hearing from her first hand, inspires students to reach their full potential and offers an insight into the exciting world of Paralympic sport and the many opportunities for employment, coaching and support that it provides."

Related Articles

Skills, Apprenticeships & Careers: The latest vacancies and opportunities across Gloucestershire Image

Skills, Apprenticeships & Careers: The latest vacancies and opportunities across Gloucestershire

Whether you are looking for a new role, an apprenticeship or a first job, Punchline is here to help.

SGS College and Business West Skills Conference Image

SGS College and Business West Skills Conference

SGS College and Business West are teaming up for a business skills conference in June.

Hartpury College retains Outstanding rating  Image

Hartpury College retains Outstanding rating

Hartpury College has retained its Outstanding rating, following an Ofsted inspection which took place from February 27 to March 1.

Gloucestershire cyber apprenticeship initiative launched  Image

Gloucestershire cyber apprenticeship initiative launched

A new initiative to help SMEs and start-ups maximise the benefits of IT and cyber apprenticeships has been launched in Gloucestershire.

Copyright 2024 Moose Partnership Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any content is strictly forbidden without prior permission.