Jack Rutter is a GB Paralympic Footballer, former Captain of the England Cerebral Palsy team and helps inspire young people through his story and help them realise that whatever obstacles come your way you can overcome them and achieve your dreams!
He had been at the club for 8 years and was just about to play in the FA Youth Cup semi final v Liverpool and sign his professional contract but in March 2009 he was the victim of an unprovoked assault that ended his career in the professional game.
He suffered a double fracture to the skull, serious brain damage and was left completely deaf in his right ear.
However 4 years later he found out he could play for the ENG & GB 7 a side Paralympic football team.
He has now played in 4 major tournaments; the Intercontinental Cup, European Championships, World Championships and the Paralympics Games in Rio where he Captained the GB team. His dreams finally came true!
Jack works at Gloucestershire University as a football coach.
He also delivers motivational assemblies and takes fitness sessions in Primary schools and is an Athlete mentor for the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust.
Every athlete faces tough times, whether it’s injury, defeat, or personal challenges. In this talk, our athletes open up about the adversity they have experienced and how they found the strength to bounce back. Pupils will learn about the importance of resilience, determination, and staying positive in difficult situations. These are valuable lessons they can use in school, sport, and life.
Sport, like life, is full of unexpected twists and turns. In this talk, our athletes reflect on times they have faced change, setbacks, or uncertain futures, from injuries to last-minute selections and global events like the pandemic. Pupils will hear honest, uplifting advice about how to stay calm, positive, and adaptable when life doesn’t go to plan.
What makes a great leader? Our athletes share stories of leading by example, lifting up teammates, and taking responsibility, whether they wear the captain’s armband or quietly lead from the sidelines. Pupils will be encouraged to step up, support others, and discover the leader within themselves.
Behind every athlete’s success is the importance of looking after their mind as well as their body. In this honest and supportive talk, our athletes open up about how they manage pressure, deal with setbacks, and stay mentally healthy. Pupils will hear positive, practical advice on looking after their own wellbeing, coping with stress, and the importance of speaking up and supporting each other.
Having a growth mindset means believing you can improve through effort, learning, and perseverance. In this talk, our athletes explain how this way of thinking has helped them deal with setbacks, learn from mistakes, and keep improving, no matter the odds. Pupils will be encouraged to embrace challenges, stay positive, and understand that hard work and resilience lead to progress in sport and in life.
The Paralympic Games are a celebration of determination, talent, and breaking down barriers. In this talk, our Paralympians and para-athletes share their incredible journeys, highlighting the power of resilience, inclusion, and the human spirit. Pupils will hear how these athletes have overcome challenges, changed perceptions, and achieved greatness on the world stage, inspiring everyone to believe in what is possible.
Jack proved an inspirational Sporting Champion. His opening speech hit all of the School Games values and his story of overcoming adversity and perseverance was great.
Jack adjusted his welcome speech on each day to make it appropriate for the age group of the young people. Jack was relaxed, friendly and made an effort with everyone he met.
Inspirational Athletes connects schools & communities with elite athletes who inspire, motivate and engage young people through talks, workshops and sports sessions.
Address:
Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 1RD
Phone:
020 7993 2724
Inspirational Speakers has been providing high profile keynote speakers and entertainers for over 25 years.
