Norfolk Academy aims to help county’s rising stars reach new heights

Launch of Young Norfolk Sports Academy (YNSA). Archer Joe Ground. (Image: Archant)

The Young Norfolk Sports Academy (YNSA) is being launched today to bring together young talent from different sports and to offer coaching in the various aspects of life for an elite athlete.

Launch of Young Norfolk Sports Academy (YNSA). Rugby player David Barclay. (Image: Archant)

Fifteen young and aspiring athletes have been selected to be part of the programme which will develop their understanding of topics including nutrition, psychology, injury rehabilitation and handling the media.

The academy, backed by Norfolk javelin star Tim Newenham, comes after a successful pilot scheme run by Norwich School. The athletes range in age from 15 to 18 and are all in the top 10 nationally at their sport.

Richard Sims, head of YNSA, said: 'Some sports get more support than others and we wanted to fill that gap.

'It's about giving them extra tools such as sports psychology and mental toughness, and helping them to move forward.'

Seven of the youngsters are Norwich School pupils while the other eight were successful applicants from across the county.

Over the year, the athletes will attend seminars and practical sessions led by top athletes and coaching experts in their fields.

They will also be able to select a mentor of their choice who will be responsible for monitoring progress and all areas of their development.

Livvy Rowe, 16, who lives in Cringleford and starting kayaking when she was 11, said: 'I'm really excited. I've got some really big goals for next year and it's really nice to have the support.'

The academy is run by Norwich School in partnership with Active Norfolk and funded by sponsorship from businesses.

Are you helping to support Norfolk's rising sports stars? Email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk