Danielle Tomlinson

Sports Award

Age:

26

Biography

I'm a swimmer from Leicester Sharks. I'm 19 years old from Leicester and currently studying at Loughborough college for a sports science degree. I came out of council learn to swim when I was 10 years old, where I was recommended to start competitive swimming by my teacher. As a child I have always been very passionate for sports, I intend to become either a physiotherapist or secondary school PE teacher after I graduate.

As for my speciality, I'm a sprint swimmer who competes in the 100m, 50m Butterfly & breaststroke. For the past 3 years I have qualified, made finals and placed in both women's open finals at regionals, midlands, nationals. I was also invited over to South Africa to train with Grant Kritzinger for 2 weeks when recognised as young talent at 15. In 2016, I made the Target Tokyo 2020 final in the 100m breaststroke at Olympic Trials for Rio, this was held in Glasgow commonwealth pool. I have broken 2 county records and since then I've been offered 2 scholarships for universities in the US.

My parents have always financially supported me throughout my career. As I'm still in full time education and train numerous times a week, it's hard to find a flexible job to fund my sport. Big costs in swimming involve racing suits, which costs at least £250-300 a piece. I tend to have 2 new suits a year for big competitions. Also factors such as training fees, gym fees, kit costs, physiotherapy, training camps, competition expenses such as entry fees and accommodation all contribute.

The expenses have become increasingly more as I get older. The award of a JHMT Inspire small grant will be greatly appreciated AS it's taken pressure of me and my parents and I can concentrate on swimming.

' Simon Taylor, Inspire lead, said:' Danielle's achievements speak for themselves . She has shown great dedication and we are delighted to support her.'