Figure skater Cameron Sargent, 22, from Stafford, began ice skating aged seven and since the age of 12 he has competed around the world, winning multiple awards.
Inclusive Skating is a world-recognised charity that helps skaters with additional needs learn to skate with their families and carers in a supportive environment.
Cameron, who has autism and anxiety, trains at Telford Ice Rink and since beginning a degree in BA (Hons) Fine Art this year, he has received additional support through Staffordshire University’s High Performance Academy.
“I love the way skating makes you feel when you glide across the ice,” Cameron explained. “I feel free and my anxiety disappears. I also love the technical aspects of skating, the fine footwork and the skill needed.”
Last month’s World Inclusive Skating Championships 2023 saw Cameron add to his impressive medal tally. This year, he won gold medals in each category for his discipline and also became overall World Champion for Free Skate, Free Dance, Free Elements, Compulsory Figures and Pairs with his partner Sophie Carter.
Commenting on his success, Cameron said: “It feels great. I'm so pleased. I have competed in many international and world inclusive skating competitions, including in Finland four times, Canada once and Scotland many times. I first became World Champion in Junior Men's Free Skate. I then moved to the Senior Men’s category and just hoped to be able to stay in the top few.”
The High Performance Academy offers tailor-made scholarships and development schemes for talented athletes, coaches and officials studying at Staffordshire University. Support includes career mentoring, academic flexibility and free gym access, plus a range of expert coaching ranging from sports psychology to strength and conditioning, nutrition advice and sports therapy.
“I was thrilled to be accepted into the High Performance Athlete programme. The one-to-one gym training has already helped me to develop strength and the sports psychology and nutrition sessions have been really useful. Thanks to the bursary I am able to train even more than before.”
Cameron added: “I will continue to train for and compete in the Inclusive Skating World Championships. Last year I also started to enter mainstream competitions with British Ice Skating, doing the Adult Nationals and an International Open. I shall be competing in the Adult Nationals again this year and hope to improve on my score.”
Sam Stevenson, who leads the High Performance Academy at Staffordshire University, said: “We're really excited to support Cameron with his sporting endeavours, he has been outstanding since accepting his place within the High Performance Academy and we can’t wait to see what else he can accomplish in the next few years with us.”
Discover more about the High Performance Academy and how to apply.