Joseph Kearney, a member of Spectrum (North East) Roller Skating Club won Best of Darlington Award for Contribution to Sport on Friday 19th May 2017. There were inspirational stories and amazing demonstrations during a night of celebration at Darlington Dolphin Centre. Joseph (16) came along to roller skating lessons hosted by Spectrum Roller Skating Club’s coach Tracy Stevens at Planet Leisure almost 3 years ago.
“I was a little surprised to have a teenage boy join in as it is predominantly females who take up the sport, but I was keen to encourage Joseph as he showed enthusiasm and talent right from day one.” said coach Tracy Stevens. “Joseph, Darlington went on to accomplish new moves very quickly. He was eager and ambitious. In a short time he worked through grades 1-5 and has later been assessed by judges to gain grade 6, 7 and 8. He took part in local competitions and performances and earlier this year, with his skating partner Nicola Stevens they attended their first national competition where they came 4th. “
“I nominated Joseph not only because of his determination, dedication and contribution to artistic roller skating but also for his commitment to the club. During the three years Joseph has joined in with paired work, group work and has helped to coach others. Most significantly for Joseph he has helped with fundraising. Although he initially wasn’t entirely comfortable with bag-packing – speaking to the general public and advertising the club, he persevered, gained confidence and found he was actually very good at it!” Joseph has gained so much from taking part in physical activity and being part of a club. He has grown in confidence and is a role model for other boys taking part in artistic roller skating.
This was recognised by best of Darlington Awards as although Joseph was against tough competition in his category he went on to win the award sponsored by Polam Hall, Darlington. Spectrum Roller Skating Club have a facebook page and summer holiday activities planned from June 10th with skating at Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre on Saturdays and Sundays from 2.30pm. For more details about learning to roller skate – ring Tracy 07891 461958
