Power message : My grand-dad always encouraged me .... when you get support from someone close to you it really helps!
Name : Sam Ricketts Sport : Football
Hull City and Wales full back.
How did you start playing sport ? My dad is a former world champion show jumper so more or less from when I was born I have been riding horses. Then, when I started at school I started participating in everything.
What sports did you play when you were a child ? As many as possible, rugby, cricket, hockey, athletics, rounders, horse riding and football. I dont think there are many sports that I didnt try.
What do you enjoy about sport ? The fun and enjoyment that you get from playing with your friends, trying new sports and getting out into the fresh air its all so good for you.
How do you keep fit and healthy ? Playing football I have to be very fit, so training everyday helps me to stay physically fit. I also have to be very careful about what I eat, foods which give me energy and plenty of vitamins and minerals. I enjoy eating well and that makes me feel really healthy.
Who was the biggest influence on your career ? My grand-dad always encouraged me from when I was very young helping me to improve my football. Most importantly he has made me use my left foot, so now I can use one foot as well as the other its all about practise, but when you get support from someone close to you it really helps! This has meant that I was able to play for Wales at left back, so without my granddad, that wouldnt have been possible.
How important do you think Dragon Sport is? What impact do you think it will have on Welsh sport ? I think its very important. Schemes like this can provide children with everything they need to make it to the top and plenty of enjoyment along the way. I am sure that Dragon Sport will have a massive impact on Welsh sport, in that we will see the stars of the future coming through. Without the scheme, helping them to get started in sport, with lots of fun opportunities, they might not be able to make it to the top.
