Tracey Atkinson is a ball of energy, her enthusiasm is infectious, and it makes you want to lace up your trainers and find the same joy she discovers in sport. Tracey began running during a career break after having her third daughter. While completing her degree, she started experiencing blackouts. After seeking medical advice, she…
Category Archives: Role Models
04
Jun
Jun
Sport: Open Water Swimming Clubs: Lisburn Swim Club/Lough Neagh Monster Dunkers At just 19 years old, Jessika Robson is already a Guinness World Record holder, a North Channel finisher, and an accomplished ice swimmer. Her story is one of grit, growth, and a genuine desire to uplift others—especially women, girls, and the open water swimming…
02
Jul
Jul
Brooke Stewart Netball, Cricket, Ulster University Brooke Stewart strikes me as incredibly busy. When asked what sports she played, she listed hockey, netball, cricket, and a bit of athletics. Brooke got involved in sports through her parents, but staying involved through university has given her a sense of discipline that affects all areas of her…
06
Nov
Nov
Caroline Nerbas Olympic Irish Handball Caroline Nerbas began her journey in Olympic handball at the age of 8 while she was in school in Brazil. Growing up in Brazil, Olympic handball was a more prominent sport compared to how popular it is in Ireland. She initially started playing due to her friends’ influence, and over…
13
Oct
Oct
Ellie McCartney Ards Swim Club/ National Centre Limerick This past summer, you might have come across the impressive achievements of Ellie McCartney when she broke the Ulster Record in the 200m Indivudal Medley (IM). Originally from Enniskillen, where her grandfather established the Enniskillen Lakelanders club, Ellie’s journey into the world of swimming began at…
31
Aug
Aug
Erin McIlwaine Newcastle Yacht Club Royal St George Irish 49 FX Olympic Development Team Erin McIlwaine embarked on her sailing journey alongside her brother and mother. Initially sailing alongside her older brother, who transitioned to different boats as he grew, allowing Erin to learn from her mother on their family boat where she was able…
25
Jul
Jul
Anna Pim Hockey/ Pegasus Hockey In the past year, you may have come across the name Anna Pim, and rightfully so, as she has achieved a great deal. Her program, At the Heart of the Game, has trained over 300 young individuals in vital skills such as CPR and how to use an AED….
07
Jul
Jul
Victoria Catterson Swimming Swimming is a sport that requires dedication. It entails early mornings and very few days off, particularly in the competitive stages. Victoria Catterson, who swims for the Ulster Performance Centre, is well acquainted with this demanding schedule. The typical routine involves waking up at 5 am for practice, with the day often…
29
Jun
Jun
Erin McConnell Triathlon Who would have guessed that Erin McConnell would find her passion while running around a parking lot during a swim meet? It was then that someone from Triathlon Ireland suggested that she come for a come-tri day. Growing up competing in swimming and cross country, it wasn’t an insane idea for her…