Alex Medley from Perth Eagles Boccia Club competed in his first individual International event from 22nd to 24th March 2024 in Belfast. Alex, who trains with the Tayside regional and Scottish National Development squads, played in the BC2 classification, taking on players from Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Ireland at the Disability Sport NI International Challenger.
On day one, Alex progressed through the group stages to face current BC2 world champion, Claire Taggert from Northern Ireland. Alex put in a great performance but it wasn’t quite enough to defeat the experienced world champion, losing 7-1 to Claire.
It also wasn’t to be in the bronze medal match for Alex but he does leave with plenty of positives, as he explains in the interview below. The future is looking very bright for Alex.
What is the DSNI Challenger? Disability Sport Northern Ireland Challenger is designed to offer competition opportunities to players within the UK Performance Pathway.
When and where: 22nd-24th March 2024. Antrim Forum Leisure Centre, Northern Ireland
Scottish player competing: Alex Medley – BC2
DSNI Challenger 2024: Interview with Alex Medley
What was your reaction when you were asked to compete? – Very excited, speechless and honoured.
What were you most worried about? – My power wheelchair arriving in one piece.
Best Moment? – Playing Claire Taggart (BC2 World Champion) in the semi-finals and spending time chatting with other players.
Even Better Moment?! – Getting an end off Claire Taggart!
Position achieved? – 4th in BC2 individual category.
What did you learn about yourself over the weekend? – Everyone needs a team behind them; I can hold my own at this level.
Best advice given? – Before travelling, speaking with some of the Scottish Boccia Squad about logistics. Take your time and play your own game no matter who you are playing. Let the ball do the work.
How did you feel? – I was nervous but as soon as I started playing, I got into the zone and really enjoyed it. I was proud of how I played, but every day is a learning day.
Any other learning points? Reset after a missed shot. I like the challenge of playing more experienced players. Importance of first ball.
What made it easier? – How welcoming the whole Boccia Community is; having a great Scottish contingent around me; having my family and friends supporting me (thanks for being there Dad!) Using skills learned from training with the Scottish Development Squad as well as learning from the Scottish National Squad.
Key learnings to work on? – Improve playing long as well as short; consistency, accuracy, strength.
What is next for you? – Continue working on my game both physically and mentally, so I can execute the strategies and shots that are in my head. Play more competitions where I can. Continue to enjoy playing boccia.
Many thanks for the support of Scottish Disability Sport and to the Organisers and Officials for making the event happen.
Photo Credit: DSNI
Photo Credit: DSNI
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