In the latest in our ‘Focus on Inclusion’ series we hear from Ella Sherlock of Brothers Pearse AC
Name: Ella Sherlock
Age: 17
Club: Brothers Pearse Athletics Club, Knocklyon, Dublin 16.
Event/Events: 60m/100m sprints, discus, javelin and shot put.
Coach: Donal Brady
How did you get involved in athletics?
I always wanted to be able to run and to compete in races. Initially, I started with athletics in primary school. Some teachers were more approachable than others, some tried to discourage me from attending school sessions and competitions. I must give a shout out to Cecil Johnson who as part of South Dublin County Council helped run the School Cross Country. Cecil offered great encouragement. I was also able to have a buddy to run with. This helped as I would not be as fast as my peers.
Did you club have to make any adaptations to the sessions?
My initial coach in my club was Clare Smith, who is amazing. She was the one that suggested a buddy for the cross country races. I am grateful for her encouragement and my introduction to shot put. During our training sessions, the only adaptation was to reduce the distance I had to run. I don’t run cross country races anymore. I prefer sprints and throws. I currently compete in mainstream competitions and IWA Sport competitions. My favourite event is the 100m sprint.
What is your advice to clubs/coaches new to para athletics/inclusion?
Don’t be afraid to encourage inclusion in the club. Generally, the changes are so minor that the coaches don’t really need to adjust the training session. My sprint coach, Donal, helped me to try different methods of starting positions with and without starting blocks, crouch and standing starts. It is not rocket science, all that is needed is someone to take an interest and be willing to give a little bit more time.
Ella Sherlock shares her story
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
I currently hold the 60m sprint Indoor National Record for T37 classification. In 2021, I came 3rd in javelin in Dublin which meant I qualified for nationals. I was so proud to have qualified for the nationals and was delighted to order the hoodie with my name on the back. At this year’s IWA Sport award, I won the Orla Barry Young Athlete of the Year Award presented to me personally by Paralympian Orla Barry. Previously, I won a bronze medal in Javelin at the last IWAS held in Portugal. I have also medalled at the Czech Grand Prix Open, where I won a bronze medal in shot put and 3 silver medals for discus, javelin and 100m sprint. At the Activity Alliance in Coventry I won gold in all 3 events I competed in discus, javelin and 100m sprint.
One thing you would like to see changed/improved for para athletes in Ireland?
I would love there to be more throw coaches not just for performance level athletes. Even if there were throw workshops. Officials to be more aware of para athletes. Generally, I have found the majority of officials to be extremely friendly, especially the starter Jackie who is at a lot of the Dublin races. I am always glad when Cecil Johnson is at a competition, as I trust him and he always makes sure I am included.
What advice would you give to any young person who is wanting to get involved in athletics?
Find a club and give it a try, once you try you won’t want to stop. It is great exercise and a lovely way to meet new friends. I go training twice a week and always look forward to training. At my club I never feel any different. I am treated like every other athlete.
I would like to give a really special mention to Pat Furlong who recently retired from volunteering with IWA Sports. A truly knowledgeable coach with so many stories and pieces of advice, he always made me want to compete better and to make him proud. I will miss him at our IWA Grand Prix competitions.
