On Wednesday, Bloxham Sports Scholars enjoyed a Q&A session with OB and Northampton Saints star, Tom Stephenson
Thank you to Molly Kirk for the report below on the recent Q&A session with OB and Northampton Saints player, Tom Stephenson:
On Wednesday 11th‘March, the Sports Scholars were lucky enough to welcome Tom Stephenson, an Old Bloxhamist who currently plays Centre for Aviva Premiership side Northampton Saints. Tom was joined by Bloxham’s own Amber Reed, member of the 2014 World Cup winning women’s Rugby Union side. It was a question and answer session which gave the scholars a chance to learn about the commitments required and the choices these successful rugby players have made regarding diet, social and family life, and also education, to ‘allow them to gain their position at the top of game. They explained the format of their weeks and the preparation involved before a big match. Amber went on to explain the extensive preparations that begin many years in advance of the World Cup and how the England ladies’ squad copes not training together daily, but fitting in week-long training camps around their normal jobs. Tom, however, has a professional contract with the Saint and therefore, his week differs significantly and he explained how the pre-season preparation varies from the in-season training with regards to recovery and gym sessions.
This talk was really useful in showing what is expected at top level sports and the different pathways that are available. It also highlighted the importance of time management and the dedication and passion required to get to the level that these inspirational sports stars have reached.’