liz - cann
badminton
What was your sport and how did you get into it?
My sport was badminton, and my parents and older brother already played it. From a very young age I often found myself in badminton halls and naturally I wanted to get involved too. My brother was always winning medals and trophies and I remember being so eager to have the chance to win my own ones.
Tell us about the highlights of your sporting career?
My first main highlights were winning my first national singles tournament when I was 16. The next highlight was competing in my first Commonwealth Games at the age of 19 in Kuala Lumpur. It was the most magical experience. Winning my first senior national championships was a big moment for me but I'd have to say winning two Commonwealth medals in 2010 was my main highlight.
What were some of the challenges you experienced and how did you overcome them?
I had several injuries throughout my career with the main one being bulging discs in my lower back. I had to ensure that I was very committed to my rehab exercise throughout my entire career as this was necessary to keep on top of the injury. The exercises were tedious and boring at times, but I understood the importance of doing them and this gave me the motivation to be consistent.
What have been your highlights while working at the Trust?
There have been so many that it's hard to pick one. When you see a young person come out of their shell and step out of their comfort zone as they rise to the challenges, I feel very proud of them. I know that their life is about to change.
What do you do now alongside working for the Trust?
I'm a high-performance mindset coach, public speaker and wellbeing mentor. I basically help people to maximise their potential.
What life advice would you give a young person?
Don't compare yourself with others. You are on your own journey and as long as you are trying to improve, whether it's slowly or quickly, you will gradually get better.
What experience do you have of working with corporate organisations?
Over the years I have delivered lots of talks and workshops in corporate organisations.
What does Being Me mean to you?
To me, Being Me means accepting and being comfortable with who you are despite what others may think. It means having the courage to make decisions that are right for you rather than trying to conform to the norms of those around you. It's having the courage to live the life that you want to live.
Competitive
Record
2014
Commonwealth Games
2012
National Champion (5x champion, also 2005, 2006,2008,2010)
2010
Commonwealth Games - Women’s Singles - Bronze
Commonwealth Games - Mixed Team - Bronze
European Team - Silver
2008
European Team - Silver
Finnish international winner
Swedish international winner
Scottish international winner
2007
Irish international winner
2006
Commonwealth games (also competed in 1998, 2002, 2010 and 2014)
