WARRINGTON student Louis Liptrott is dreaming of Paralympic glory after being handpicked by British Wheelchair Basketball to complete a prestigious Diploma in Sporting Excellence.
The qualification is designed for elite athletes who have the potential to achieve excellence in their sport and who are looking to perform at the highest level. Talented Louis is completing his diploma alongside his course at Warrington & Vale Royal College, as he advances towards his dream of competing in the Paralympics.
Louis was first introduced to the Paralympics at a young age, after going to watch the games when London hosted the Olympics and Paralympics in 2012. Inspired by the performances of the athletes, he was eager to see which sports he could try back home and fell in love with wheelchair basketball.
He has since enjoyed incredible success in the sport, including representing the North West in the National Junior Championships. The team was triumphant in 2018, coming away with the coveted gold medal. He has also recently been talent-spotted for the GB Regional Academy, where he will be trained by Team GB Men’s coach.
Whilst playing professionally is Louis’ primary goal, he is eager to develop his coaching skills and has completed work experience at college, coaching young students at local schools. Upon finishing college, he plans to apply for specialist universities to study sports coaching.
Speaking of his time at college, Louis said, “I’ve really enjoyed my time here. My tutors have encouraged me to get involved with basketball and they help me with my coursework. I’ve also been given some great opportunities, such as being offered to complete a refereeing course whilst studying.”
His tutor, Chris Percival added: “Louis is a very motivated student who wants to be challenged. He is very goal-orientated and has high expectations of himself, which he lives up to. He is passionate about basketball and doing well in his studies, and is fully engaged in both.”
