Captain’s Corner: Trampoline
Romilly Norfolk talks to Trampolining co-president Millie Heathcote
Who is your sporting idol?
My sporting idol would be Bryony Page, a trampolinist who won gold in Paris in her third Olympics at the age of 33. She showed that success in trampolining can happen at any age, and perseverance pays off.
Best sporting moment?
Competing at BUCS and making the top 8 final in a competitive group. I had been struggling with some mental blocks leading up to this competition, so I was very pleased to have been able to put a good routine out there on the day.
Worst sporting moment?
Crashing out at our home competition in first year. With trampolining, one slight error and the routine can be very difficult to save, so it is a sport where nothing is guaranteed.
Why trampolining?
I began gymnastics when I was very young and began trampolining when I was about eight. I enjoy that it is such a rewarding sport, and the feeling when you achieve a new skill or do well at a competition is incredible. I have also found it to be a very supportive sport, both within the club and with friendships that you make with people from other universities at competitions.
What are your pre-competition rituals?
I always have to eat Jaffa Cakes before I compete. We often have to leave for competitions in places like Bristol very early in the morning, so I need plenty of sugar to get me through the day, as I often both compete and judge.
What is the best bit about being president?
I’ve enjoyed being more involved in the workings of the club, which also helped me get to know people better. I also have an amazing co-president, Hannah, and I think we make a great team.
Worst bit about being president?
Writing emails.
Is it tricky to balance sport and work?
It can be difficult, particularly with the Cambridge workload, however it serves as an excellent distraction from the stresses of work. I know that I can always turn to the other members of the committee, which includes past presidents, for support and advice if I need it.
Is it easy for beginners to join?
It’s very easy for beginners to join, and we welcome members of all experience and ability levels. We have excellent coaches to guide you through basic skills, and there’s plenty of support from other members in the club to encourage you.
What does a typical training session look like?
Our sessions are relaxed and friendly. Your training is personalised to your ability, but most people generally begin with practising their basic skills, before moving on to new skills and preps. We work hard when we’re on the trampoline and have coaches to support us, but we always have time for a chat.
Any season predictions?
I hope that we are able to beat Oxford at Varsity after an extremely close fought contest last year and improve on our teams successes at BUCS. I hope that we can get even more members competing this year to help towards this!
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