Each Thursday we want to put the spotlight on a person involved with goalball – from players, officials, coaches, or anyone.
This week we caught up with Connor Scott-Gardner!
What club do you play for or coach?
I play for West Yorkshire at both Novice and Intermediate levels.
How did you discover goalball?
When I was 11, I went to New College Worcester so started playing when I was there. When I was 16, I returned home to York and started playing for them. I then had a break from the sport whilst I was at university and travelling before starting to play again this season.
Is there a particular song, artist or genre that you listen to before a tournament to get in the mood? Or anything you’re loving at the moment?
I like rock music from the ’90s and early 00’s so bands like Green Day, My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy.
Do you have any pre-game superstitions or rituals?
I always make sure that I am fully hydrated and warmed up. It’s important to be mentally prepared as well as physically prepared.
Do you have a favourite post-match meal?
I don’t tend to be that hungry after playing so I usually just have a green smoothie when I get home.
Which goalball player do you admire the most and why?
Everyone at West Yorkshire is really supportive of each other, regardless of their level. So the Novices support the Elites as much as the Elites support the Novices.
Outside of goalball, what other hobbies/sports do you do?
I enjoy reading and baking. As for other sports, I’m currently learning to ice skate as I want to play (blind) ice hockey. I’m really enjoying it as it is challenging me – it’s not just something that I can blag! I also enjoy rock climbing. Although it’s an individual sport it’s nice going along with friends and being there to support each other. Generally, I like spending time outdoors. In the summer, I enjoy going for walks.
Finally, what place, anywhere in the world, is on your bucket list to visit and why?
I’d really like to go to Antarctica. I wouldn’t be able to see anything, but I think the atmosphere would be incredible – just miles and miles of nothing. I think the journey there, on small boats with researchers and scientists who would be able to tell you about their work, would be a great learning experience also.
