Team Z divers get chance to train alongside Olympic champion Jack Laugher

Members of the Swim England Team Z diving programme are to train alongside Olympic gold medallist Jack Laugher at a special three-day camp.

Laugher, who won gold at the Rio 2016 Games in the Men’s Synchronised 3m Springboard alongside Chris Mears, will be joined by fellow British diving athletes as the Team Z youngsters join in training sessions with City of Leeds’ elite divers.

The camp takes place from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 January and gives athletes, coaches and parents the chance to pick up expert advice and tips.

A total of 22 athletes in Team Z have been selected from clubs around the country and have either been on the Swim England Talent pathway for more than a year or were recently selected following the Talent Games last November.

They will be joined at the camp by three guests from Scottish Swimming.

Suzie Collins, Swim England Talent Development Officer for Diving, said: “We’re thrilled that our Team Z divers will be able to gain some valuable experience as they train at the same time as Jack and others from City of Leeds.

“Our thanks go to City of Leeds for allowing them to take part in these sessions – it’s an amazing opportunity for them to learn from the very best in the sport.

Highly rewarding

“The camp promises to be a jam-packed weekend of dry land and pool training plus workshops for athletes, coaches and parents.“

Suzie and English Institute of Sport nutritionist Louise Bloor will be running workshops, including giving advice to mums and dads on being a parent of a talented athlete and the best ways to fuel them.

The divers will also take part in ballet sessions, physical testing, goal setting and planning sessions alongside their coaches.

Suzie added: “The ballet sessions help the divers’ form, specifically toe point and leg line, which is essential in an aesthetic sport such as diving.

“They also help with ankle extension out of the diving board, which in turn helps power and speeds.

“It will be a busy three days but thoroughly enjoyable and highly rewarding for our talented young team.”