Undisputed World Boxing Champion Chantelle Cameron, a former student at Northampton Academy, paid a surprise visit to the school on Tuesday, 27th June.
Students in the school’s Elite Sports Programme were taken aback when they were greeted by Chantelle at the beginning of what they thought would be routine football and netball training sessions. Instead, Chantelle put the students through their paces by leading a unique sparring session.
Following the session, students got the opportunity to hear from Chantelle about her journey in the sport. The boxer talked about the determination and commitment she has needed to reach her goals and how she is always looking to find and overcome her next challenge. Students then engaged in an interesting Q&A, asking Chantelle a range of thoughtful questions about her career to date and the sport more widely.
One student, Emma B, said: “It was inspiring to see how Chantelle has achieved such greatness with sheer determination and ambition.”
Another student Amanda S said: “It was a one-of-a kind experience and Chantelle was so inspirational.”
A third student, Modinat Q, added: “We are all really encouraged to see how far Chantelle has gone through pure hard work.”
Simon Hollyhead, the director of the school’s Elite Sports Programme, commented:
“This was a unique opportunity for our young athletes to learn from a former student who has achieved unparalleled success in her chosen career. Chantelle kindly gave her time up between media commitments and preparations for her next bout.
“She was clear in how important the school values remain true for her today, alongside the importance of not letting distractions derail your focus to achieve success. I would like to thank Chantelle, who is an inspiration to us all at Northampton Academy.”