When the Get on Track programme was first mentioned to us at college, I really wasn’t sure about it, I was thinking ‘did I really want to do this?’ But it turned out to be one of the best things I did!

After signing up we did loads of fun activities, all things that helped me improve on skills that I’m going to need for my life in the future.

During the first lockdown I really didn’t look after myself. I didn’t really go out, I just played on my Xbox at home, I put about a stone on in weight. Being on the Get on Track programme during the second lockdown has really helped, I’m looking after myself more and taking better care of myself through exercise and things like that.
Before COVID I’d always be out with friends doing stuff, going all over the place… I’m looking forward to getting out again and doing more exercise. I mainly go out for walks and a light jog when I can… I feel like I’ve sat in too long.

When we were doing the course virtually, Jenna introduced us to loads of different athletes. I met Neil Danns, the skateboarder and Henry Cookey – he did a taekwondo fitness session with us. We also had a boxing session with Hannah Beharry, and we also did football with Jack Rutter. I think it was brilliant speaking to loads of different athletes as they related to us really well and offered something for everyone. They shared their story and gave you an introduction to other hobbies and interests. I really liked taekwondo and boxing and they’re both something that I’d like to do more of in the future.

Jenna Downing - Athlete Mentor

After leaving college I want to join the Army and for that you need to have good leadership skills and Get on Track has really helped with that. I’ve learned on the programme that to be a good leader you need passion, integrity and care. I’ve had the opportunity over the last few months of being able to lead sessions, making sure I include everyone in them.

It’s been really enjoyable working with Jenna. She’s helped me expand my leadership skills and taught me what exercise is good and what food is healthy to eat - that’s really helped me a lot, I get a lot more protein and veg with my meals now. Jenna always mentions stuff to make us want something more in life, encouraging us to care about the future.

We have to do other things on the programme which have helped too. We organised a litter pick on the beach, trying to get the whole community involved and I also had to give a presentation to the school about something I’m passionate about, I chose to talk about coding and gaming and knowing I can deliver something like that has really helped with my confidence.

I’ve learned so much in the last six months. I’ve developed team leadership skills, my confidence has improved and I’ve got fitter after all the online sessions. I’ve learned loads about what to eat etc… as well as taking on board feedback to help me improve as well. If I was giving feedback I’d give the Trust and the programme a five star review!

Matthew attended the Get on Track for Wellbeing programme in Liverpool. Thanks to funding from Sport England, we are working with 700 young people in coastal communities all across England to help them become more active.