Lucy Birch
Story:
My name is Lucy Birch and I am 16 years old. Ever since I was little I’ve had a drive and a passion for sport. Since the little 6 year old girl who used to swing around the swing frame in her garden begging her mum to take her to gymnastics, sport has helped me grow so much as a person. I’ve lost and re-grown confidence and made so many friends. I’ve tried many many sports such as swimming, dance, gymnastics, trampolining, athletics and football. Sport is the one thing I can rely on after a hard day. It gives me a sense of community and brings people together. My family are all keen sports fans and it is something that unites us which I will forever be grateful for. I currently play football after returning to the sport after my old team didn’t have enough players and didn’t grow my confidence. I love my new team and they have made me realise and remember why I love the wonderful sport.
Reason for nomination:
I felt quite bad nominating myself but I feel like I have such a powerful and inspirational message that needs to be shared with not only people my age but those older who have missed out on opportunities through a lack of belief and confidence. Sport should be for everyone regardless of ability, gender, background, race or beliefs. So many young teenagers have potential in sport but are stopped by the fear of judgement and not being good enough. But what is this good enough standard we pressure ourselves with? It’s simply a myth and will never disappear from society unless a person from the same background is open to speak about it and that’s why I would like to be seen.
I’m not amazing at every sport and especially not football. But my love and commitment has helped me build myself up as a player and this has given me confidence which can be useful in other aspects of life. I have taken a risk, joined my local team quite late on in my childhood but like so many others could I am benefiting from it. I’ve made more friends, learning new skills and pushing myself. People need to be encouraged to dream big through the big players but need the reassurance from people their own age and people around them. So if there is anything I would like people to take away is that: nothing should stop you. Not age. Not ability. And certainly not other people. We are not born professional. It’s something we can work to become at any point in our lives. It doesn’t necessarily need to be something we have done since the age of 5, it can be a new but persistant interest but if you want to do it then go for it. Follow your heart and the rest will follow.
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