Mattie's Making Waves
STOCKTON is proving to be a source of huge swimming talent. Matthew Allison, 14-year-old Borough of Stockton Swimming Scheme swimmer, is another local youngster beginning to make waves in the swimming world. 2005 has been a tremendous year for Matthew with silver in the 400m individual medley and a 4th place in both the 200m individual medley and 200m butterfly at the national championship. He was also presented with the Cleveland Swimming Association Senior Swimmer of the Year Award.
Swimming’s national governing body ‘British Swimming’ has noticed Matthew’s performances and in September he was the youngest swimmer invited to the National Youth Individual Medley Camp in Palma. During an intensive week’s training Matthew swam an astonishing 88,000m.
To round off the year, Matthew finished 2005 with a creditable performance at the recent commonwealth trials in Swansea, despite his young age.
To maintain his development, Egglescliffe School pupil Matthew’s weekly training regime consists of 18 hours a week in the pool and three hour land training per week at Splash, Billingham Forum and Thornaby Pool. His dedication to the sport comes from his desire to emulate his hero, U.S. Olympic Gold Medallist Michael Phelps.
Carol Grainger Tees Actives Swimming Development Manager said: “Matthew’s hard work is beginning to show in his recent results, and Tees Active will assist wherever possible so Matthew can achieve his ultimate ambition of eventually competing in the Olympics.”
If you require any information regarding swimming at any of the Active Life Centres contact Carol Grainger on (01642) 528540.