UK Sport

Campbell and Tait impressed by Pitch2Podium talent

EIS

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EIS 07 May 2010

Pitch2Podium assessment days continue this week as the UK Talent Team continues its search for Olympic talent from the pools of rugby and football academy athletes.

Programme ambassador and Olympic champion Darren Campbell and Sale Sharks and England Rugby player Mathew Tait joined the talent team at an assessment day at the English Institute of Sport (EIS) Sheffield.

“There have been some great athletes through the doors this year” says Campbell, who attended the assessment day yesterday, 5th May.

“What’s great to see is that the lads have come here and given it their absolute all. These lads are athletes first and foremost and whilst they may not realise their dreams in their first sports, they want to be competing at the highest level and Olympic sport offers them that chance.

“Everyone needs a plan B and speaking to these athletes, they are determined to keep their options open and I’m really pleased that we’re seeing them get involved in the Pitch2Podium programme.”

Campbell and Tait joined EIS Talent ID Scientist and other talent support staff to check out those attending the session.

“I’ve been really impressed with the calibre of athletes at the assessment” says Tait.

“Pitch2Podium is a great programme for them to get involved with as they’ve still got a lot to offer top level sport. To be able to compete and get onto the podium at an Olympic Games is such an exciting opportunity – I hope some of the talent we’re seeing realise their potential and go all the way.”

Sheffield marked the first of a series of tests in May, the second being held on 7 in London with a final day in Stirling on the 12.

Find out more about Pitch2Podium.

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