Joe’s swimming career began with ‘learn to swim’ classes – his parents first took him to these classes so that he could be safe in the water.
Joe loved being in the water from the first class and from these classes he joined his local club – Rotherham Metro.
Showing natural talent and a passion for swimming – Joe rapidly progressed through the club levels.
Upon turning eighteen Joe went on to higher education and continued his swimming career at Loughborough University.
After three years Joe made his International senior debut at the long course (50m) European Championships in Hungary 2006 where he competed in 200m and 400m individual medley, as well as the 200m butterfly.
Joe began to excel in these events and throughout his career representing Great Britain has amassed a total of 21 National medals and has been British Champion 10 times between 2005 and 2014.
Joe currently still holds the British record for short course 200m butterfly and the 400m individual medley short course Commonwealth record holder.
In 2012 Joe was the only British swimmer to qualify for three individual events for the London Olympics after winning two events at the Olympic trials.
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.
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.
What makes a team truly successful? Our athletes reveal the secrets behind high performing teams, whether it is a sports squad, a relay team, or a support network behind the scenes. They share how trust, clear roles, good communication, and a shared goal lead to outstanding results. Pupils will learn how these lessons apply not just in sport, but in school groups, projects, and friendships too.
The Olympics represents the pinnacle of sport, and our athletes give a behind-the-scenes insight into what it is really like to compete or aim to compete on the world’s biggest stage. They share stories of preparation, pressure, teamwork, and pride, inspiring pupils with lessons about ambition, dedication, and chasing dreams, whatever they may be.
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.
I just wanted to thank you for coming into Charnwood College yesterday, I really appreciate all of your hard work with our students. It was an absolutely fantastic day and you were so good with all of the different age groups of students. Students had a great day and I could see a real improvement throughout the sessions. You have really inspired our students to swim and given them motivation for the summer cup
It was a pleasure to have you at the academy and can honestly say it was one of the best athlete visits we’ve had. The students had an unbelievable time, learnt a lot and it has inspired them, so thank you. If we are offered the chance to have you again we will definitely take up on that offer.
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.
