Laura really makes the grade!

Esprit Academy’s Laura Halford (8) selected for the Welsh National Squad!

This story started when Laura attended a competition in Coventry late last year and her coach, Esprit Academy’s Deb Hows, was approached by the head of the Welsh National squad who asked for Laura to be sent to trial for the ‘Preparation Squad’, a once a month training camp for children identified as having future potential. Well Laura went for the trial, against children of 10 and 12 years of age, more in the hope of making her mark for the future than of actually getting in. “In the weeks leading up to the trial Laura worked incredibly hard” said Deb Hows her coach, “I have seldom seen such determination and focus from a child as young as Laura, she really wanted a place and it showed”.

Laura had to undergo a series of tests and perform several routines under competition conditions and completed them all to perfection, which was reflected in her score of 77%, the highest score of the whole day. She then had to wait for the results for two weeks, unbearable for everyone concerned especially Mum and Dad Paula and David. We are so proud of Laura said mum Paula Kimmel, she has worked so hard for this, she loves gymnastics and going to the Esprit Academy at Stratton, they really have brought out the best in her, especially coach Deb Hows. Since the Academy opened in January we have seen a significant improvement in Laura, it’s amazing what a difference having a proper facility and excellent coaches has made”.

“When we finally heard the news we were speechless” said dad Dave Halford an extremely proud Welshman, “not only had Laura got in they asked her to bypass the Preparation Squad and move straight into the Welsh Development Squad, just one step away from being able to compete for Wales in full International Competitions. Laura will train along side the full Welsh National Team, who are some of the best gymnasts in the country”. “Incredible really” said Dave “Laura isn’t even old enough yet to compete in County Grades competitions and here she is training with the Welsh National team, we couldn’t be more proud of her.”

Neither could we at the Esprit Academy – WELL DONE LAURA!

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