Sofia Tymchyshyn is 14 years of age and started skating just over a year ago with current partner, Daniel Clark. In the short time they have skated together they have achieved amazing results and won every competition entered. In August 2011 they became Scottish champions, and in September also took the Welsh title, as well as qualifiying for the British championship, which take place at the end of November.
Up to now their parents have fully supported these talented skaters, but competitions and competitive tests are expensive so it has become quite a struggle to continue at this crucial time when extra lessons and ice time are much needed. Sofia contacted Kevin to ask if the charity would help them achieve their dream of becoming British Champions. Kevin went to meet the pair at Blackburn Ice Arena and we so impressed by their dedication and desire he donated £1,000 to help pay for their training.
Johnson Fold School
Johnson Fold head teacher, Ruth Dean, contacted KiDs of Bolton about funding their very popular after-school boxing and wrestling club. Kevin visited the school and was so impressed he set up a visit to Gloves Community Centre so the kids could meet with Bolton boxing champion Amir Khan. KiDs of Bolton has now funded the boxing club for another year.
Rebekah Atkinson
Earlier this year KiDs of Bolton was contacted by Rebekah Atkinson. She sent us a very detailed email about her love of Modern Pentathlon, which involves running, shooting, fencing, swimming and horse riding. She was asking for help as she had been picked for Great Britain in a Youth International Tetrathlon but unfortunately Rebekah’s fencing kit was not up to International Safety standard so she was unable to compete.
Kevin was so impressed by the information we received and the dedication shown by Rebekah that he agreed to provide new kit via KiDs of Bolton funds.
Recently Rebekah came 2nd in the National Schools Biathlon at Crystal Palace, a dual age group with her being in the younger end. Her team became National Champions. She has just been nominated for the Bolton Sports awards for the 2nd year. Rebekah told us her ambition is to continue working hard and training, and eventually making it to the Olympics. We are very proud of her achievements and wish her every success in the future
St Catherines Lads and Dads Club
KiDs of Bolton recently funded a local Dads and Kids Family Learning Group. Five Dads successfully gained the coaching award and all of the group achieved and benefited from the experience. Anything like this has a real knock on effect, the kids love to see their Dads in school and it gives them such a good message about learning.
Mr Watson, Head teacher says “Positive male role models are proven to have a positive effect on the education and development of their children. This project has already seen more male family members enter school and become involved in the learning of their children. The fact that Kevin Davies is involved in the project makes it even more exciting for the parents and children – he is a positive male role model proving it is cool to be involved with kids and support them.”
During the course the Dads’ have had visits from diet and nutrition experts, BWFC coaches, Kevin Davies and visits to The Manchester Climbing Centre, The Reebok and BWFC Academy. The Dads said….
“It has really built up my confidence. Getting involved in the joint activities made me more aware of how to communicate and be part of a team.” – Anthony Brown – Grandad and Dad
“I have been part of my nephews physical coaching. It (the course) showed me how to have fun and keep fit at the same time. I learned about how healthy eating can improve your lifestyle. I also learned how to manage and help others.” – Justin Hill – Uncle and soon to be Dad.
“I enjoyed spending time with my kids teaching them different sports and games. I have seen the difference positive and negative feedback makes to a child. I am more confident delivering a session.” – Brian Palin – Dad.
“I have learned self discipline, motivation and about being more self aware generally. I might be able to teach at after school club myself now.” – Jamie Youd – Dad.
Mark from year six said – “it makes me proud that my Dad comes into school, he has been to every single session. I love doing football together with him” Dillon aged Seven “My Dad is special he comes into school and helps me, I loved going to the climbing centre.”
Stephen year 4 “I have learned that in a team communication is important, Kevin told us it is important to always pass the ball. Don’t be scared of shooting and tell your team where you are so they can pass to you!”.
Denver aged 10 “I loved it at the climbing centre and my Dad encouraged me to climb high, I was scared but it was good fun and good exercise”.
Jayne Tramontana, Bolton College Curriculum Leader for Family Learning, “This is all about getting parents involved in their children’s learning and recreational activities. We have seen first-hand at St Catherine’s school the positive impact that parental involvement has on the performance of children whether it be in school or at the local football club. The group loved every minute of the KiDs of Bolton. project and were thrilled that Kevin came to visit them at both the start and end of the project.”
St Thomas Girls Football Team
Last year Kelly Boag A Year 5 Teacher AT St.Thomas CEP School in Westhoughton contacted us about a girls football team at her school. The girls were doing brilliantly but having to borrow boys kit to play in tournaments. Kevin went to see the girls play (and win) a local tournament and was so impressed with their skill and dedication he funded a new kit through KiDs of Bolton.
