Sporting Champions Programme

'Sporting Champions' is a Sport England initiative bringing world-class athletes face-to-face with young people and young adults to inspire and motivate them.

A team of current and retired elite athletes have been recruited based on their wealth of experience and enthusiasm for sport as well as their ability to work with young people and young adults with the aspiration of increasing participation in sport.

England footballer Sue Smith (pictured), who has been a Sporting Champion for 10 years said: "I've been involved for 10 years now because I've always believed in giving back to sport and encouraging kids. I love going into schools and trying to inspire young people through who we are and what we do.

"We also get involved in sports which aren't our own. It's fun but it can be a bit daunting. I've been doing cheerleading, next up it's netball."

We currently have over 50 performers, both current and retired, who are 'Sporting Champions'.

The Sporting Champions are currently supporting Sport England's Sportivate programme, which is part of the Places, People, Play London 2012 mass participation legacy.