Matthew Chilvers

Sports Award

Age:

27

Biography

Matthew is 21 years old and from Broughton Astley, Leicestershire. This year he's been selected to represent the East Midlands at tennis at the Special Olympics National Summer Games in Sheffield in August.

JHMT's Support

The Summer Games is a national event for competitors with a learning disability, which is held every four years. There will be around 200 people representing the East Midlands at the National Games across 21 different sports, but only two people from Leicestershire are playing tennis.

To prepare for the Special Olympics Summer Games, Matthew has been competing in Regional tennis tournaments organised by the Tennis Foundation across the country. He trains in a group with the men's team at Desford and with the East Midlands Special Olympics Squad in Nottingham.

Matthew said: 'Having the opportunity to make improvements each week and get more practice would increase my confidence level, which means I will feel well prepared going into the Special Olympics in Sheffield and know that I can give it my all. The Special Olympics moto is 'Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. The Inspire award will enable me to train as hard as I can to do my best in Sheffield. Before the Games I will need extra 1:1 coaching to improve my skills and get ready for the competition'

'It is beneficial in the future to Desford Tennis Club and to other people with learning disabilities to see people taking part in the Special Olympics National Games. It shows people in a positive light and might encourage other people with learning disabilities to get into sport.' added Matthew.

Simon Taylor, Inspire Awards Project lead said:' We are giving this award to matthew as he is a great example to other young people through his ambition and commitment to succeed . We look forward to hearing from him following the Special Olympics GB Summer Games in Sheffield.'