I wouldn't have had a sporting career if it hadn't been for the volunteers who agreed to coach me, as a teenager, growing up in south Wales, at a time when others were telling me that wheelchair racing wasn't really athletics.
Interpretation
The support from volunteers played a crucial role in my athletic journey despite societal doubts.
This quote reflects on the importance of mentorship and volunteerism in shaping one’s path, particularly in the face of adversity. Tanni Grey-Thompson emphasizes that without the encouragement and coaching from volunteers during her formative years, she might not have pursued a career in sports, highlighting the vital role that guidance and belief from others can play in overcoming societal biases and personal challenges.
In practice
In a speech at a sports award ceremony, one might use this quote to acknowledge the important role of coaches and mentors.
Perhaps we need to redefine our idea of role models; they're not always elite athletes whose success might seem too distant or unachievable. Sometimes it's our friend who just smashed her first 10k, or our Zumba teacher who is enthusiastic, encouraging and real.
As a disabled person I have to think and plan far more than anyone else. If I want to catch a bus I have to consider whether the ramp works, whether there will be someone in the one space who doesn't want to move. It can be a constant worry.
Disability sport came about largely because of exclusion, because mainstream sport didn't want disabled people to be part of it.
I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips, Straining upon the start. The game's afoot; Follow your spirit: and upon this charge, Cry — God for Harry! England and Saint George!
At times I think the truest image of God today is a black inner-city grandmother in the United States or a mother of the disappeared in Argentina or the women who wake up early to make tortillas in refugee camps. They all weep for their children, and in their compassionate tears arises the political action that changes the world. The mothers show us that it is the experience of touching the pain of others that is the key to change.
We began a contest for liberty ill provided with the means for the war, relying on our patriotism to supply the deficiency. We expected to encounter many wants and distressed we must bear the present evils and fortitude
You've got to keep fighting; you've got to risk your life every six months to stay alive.
On a very long and very high wire, I will not hope to not be blown off by high winds. I will have the certitude that such could not happen.
No sane man is unafraid in battle, but discipline produces in him a form of vicarious courage.
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