Thomas Matthews has already shared with us in a previous blog how he got involved in disability sport. The 21 year old has had an impressive year winning his first international medal, with 2013 all wrapped up, Tom has big plans for 2014.
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| Matthews has big plans for 2014 |
As I reflect on 2013 it was a great year in my
development as a Table Tennis player. My highs include winning my first
international medals which was a silver in singles and a bronze in doubles at
the Mike Dempsey Memorial Championships in San Diego. With the funding from the
Disability Sport Wales Academy and through private sponsorship by Snowdrop
Mobility I came away with silver after losing to a player ranked number 7 in
the world. He beat me 3-2 in the early rounds which was a massive achievement
for me to take him so close. Playing him in the final of the singles he showed
his experience and beat me 3-1, but I still gave him a good game.
Additionally I’ve been fortunate to be recognised for
my ability by being selected onto the Great Britain World Class Pathway squad,
which will see me being supported by additional training with the GB Coaches as
well as further competitive opportunities, especially internationally.
I ended 2013 ranked 21 in the World in the Class 1
group within Para Table Tennis.
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| Tom wins his first international medals |
At the other end of things, it is frustrating trying
to get money and sponsorship for a new playing chair which is a cost of £4500.
With the engagement of SnowDrop Motability Cardiff as a sponsor, and the
continued support of the Disability Sport Wales Academy programme and WPTSA
(Welsh Paraplegic & Tetraplegic Sports Association) I hope to reach my
targets I have set for 2014. Without the support of these organisations, as well
as my personal coach Jim Munkley MBE I’d never be able to what I’m doing today.
I’m looking forward to 2014 to push myself even
further. One of my goals is to get within the top 15 on the world ranking lists
in my class which I think is possible with a lot of work but I’m up for that
challenge. So hopefully a few more finals and a few more medals so bring on
2014 and I hope you all have a happy new year! Thanks once again to all my
supporters.
