Table Tennis England Coach Developer Steve Brunskill is heading to the Commonwealth Games to gain insight into coaching in a multi-sport environment.
He will head to Glasgow this summer as part of the England Futures Programme, of which three young England athletes are also a part.
Steve (pictured above) was nominated by Table Tennis England to join the programme, which offers a range of experiences for participants, including access to Games-time environments and the opportunity to build networks and connect to peers from other sports.
It offers an invaluable insight into the challenges and expectations of multi-sport events, with the view of aiding preparations for future major events including Commonwealth Games, Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.
Steve said: “I feel incredibly privileged and honoured to have been selected as part of the England Futures Programme and to have the opportunity to attend the Commonwealth Games.
“As someone who works in Coach development, this is a unique opportunity to learn from world-class practitioners and experience a multi-sport environment where I can gain a greater understanding of what it takes to support athletes and coaches at the highest level.
“One of the main aims of the programme is to gain an understanding of the unique challenges of a multi-sport Games environment. Unlike single-sport events, athletes and coaches must cope with a much busier and more complex setting, balancing performance with increased distractions, media attention, logistics and the excitement of being part of a major Games.
“I look forward to learning how successful athletes and coaches manage these pressures and maintain their focus on performance.
“During the Games, I will be observing, learning and networking with people from a wide range of sports, looking at how successful environments are created and how different sports approach performance, coaching and athlete development. I am particularly interested in identifying ideas and best practice that can be transferred back into table tennis.
“I hope to gain valuable insights, broaden my perspective and develop new relationships that will ultimately help me become a better coach developer and contribute positively to the future growth and success of our sport.”
