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 George Williams!
I play for RNC Academy.
How did you discover goalball?
I was introduced by Aaron Ford (Sports Academy Coach) in 2018 when I joined RNC for my education. Prior to arriving at RNC I had heard of goalball but never played it.
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?
The genre of music that I like and listen to prior to playing sport is Hip Hop. Some of my favourite artists are Lil TJay, Drake and Jay Z.
Do you have any pre-game superstitions or rituals?
I just ensure that I have completed a thorough warm up and mobility routine, often alongside my teammates. Plus, when ready and before the first whistle I don’t know why but I do a little jump up and down on the spot.
Do you have a favourite post-match meal?
An RNC tradition is often to head to the service station on the way home from a competition due to us often travelling together in the minibus. The options as you can imagine aren’t always that healthy but after a hard day’s competition and burning energy, I often treat myself to a McDonalds – a chicken wrap, cheese bites and a banana milkshake being the meal of choice.
Which goalball player do you admire the most and why?
Being based at RNC I have been lucky enough to play with many excellent goalball players as many of my peers have been able to represent GB at Youth and Senior level. But the person who sticks out the most is Stuart Hudson. Stuart as a player and peer has been really supportive and has really helped with my development, giving me insight into what it takes to make the next steps within the sport. I appreciate all the support all the team give me but to hear it from someone experienced with as much potential as Stuart has been really valuable. Goalball is a great sport, and it is such a fantastic environment to be a part of. I would recommend anyone who is blind or partially sighted to give goalball a go.
Outside of goalball, what other hobbies/sports do you do?
I play partially sighted and blind football within the national domestic league for RNC. I also take part in judo once a week. I also enjoy going to the gym and relaxing in the pool/spa after.
Finally, what place, anywhere in the world, is on your bucket list to visit and why?
I would love to visit Tokyo as I think it’s a very cool place. Japan is a country that is leading the way in terms of technology.
