Part of the Etc.
Students have been making their love of sport count by using it to raise funds for a cause close to their hearts.
Embarking on a 24-hour sport, the youngsters from SRC Bede Sixth Form made the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) the focus of their efforts.
Inspired by SRC Bede teacher Mike Sadler; the Sport and Public Services lecturer lost his son, Michael, after the young motocross enthusiast suffered a brain haemorrhage while practising the sport that he loved.
"The Great North Air Ambulance team were first on the scene," said Mike.
Sadly nothing could be done to save the 15-year-old but, for so many others, "they are the ones that get people to hospital," said the Yarm dad-of-two.
Describing the service as "a fantastic resource", Mike was touched when the Sports students at SRC Bede Sixth Form selected the GNAAS as their chosen charity in Michael’s name.
BTEC Extended Diploma Level 3 student, Emily Good, 18, of Eagescliffe, said: "We wanted to do something in memory of Michael and to also show our support for Mike."
Starting the 24-hour challenge at 9am, the squad of around 40 students took part in a host of activities at the SRC Sports Centre in Billingham, each lasting around 50 minutes, followed by a 10 minute break.
Games included netball, handball, hockey, table tennis, rugby and futsal, to name but a few.
Speaking at the halfway point, Emily said: "We are starting to feel it now but everyone goes through tired phases at different times so we are supporting each other."
Plus, she said: "Knowing that you are doing it for such an important reason keeps you going."
Keen to play his part Mike got involved on the day, clocking up 32 miles - 22 cycling to and from work plus an additional 10 miles on the rowing machine. As Michael was a passionate motocross rider he explained: "Michael's race number was 32."
Impressed by all the students' enthusiasm and dedication on the day, he said: "The 24 hour sport is something the students have done before and it has always been a cracking event.
"It is a long and tiring day going 24 hours and during that time they go through lots of emotions but it's always amazing to see and hear the cheers coming from the sports hall."
SRC Bede Sixth Form offers a range of sport courses delivered at the purpose-built SRC Sports Centre on Marsh House Avenue, Billingham. For details visit: www.stockton.ac.uk/courses/sport-leisure/
Embarking on a 24-hour sport, the youngsters from SRC Bede Sixth Form made the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) the focus of their efforts.
Inspired by SRC Bede teacher Mike Sadler; the Sport and Public Services lecturer lost his son, Michael, after the young motocross enthusiast suffered a brain haemorrhage while practising the sport that he loved.
"The Great North Air Ambulance team were first on the scene," said Mike.
Sadly nothing could be done to save the 15-year-old but, for so many others, "they are the ones that get people to hospital," said the Yarm dad-of-two.
Describing the service as "a fantastic resource", Mike was touched when the Sports students at SRC Bede Sixth Form selected the GNAAS as their chosen charity in Michael’s name.BTEC Extended Diploma Level 3 student, Emily Good, 18, of Eagescliffe, said: "We wanted to do something in memory of Michael and to also show our support for Mike."
Starting the 24-hour challenge at 9am, the squad of around 40 students took part in a host of activities at the SRC Sports Centre in Billingham, each lasting around 50 minutes, followed by a 10 minute break.
Games included netball, handball, hockey, table tennis, rugby and futsal, to name but a few.
Speaking at the halfway point, Emily said: "We are starting to feel it now but everyone goes through tired phases at different times so we are supporting each other."
Plus, she said: "Knowing that you are doing it for such an important reason keeps you going."
Keen to play his part Mike got involved on the day, clocking up 32 miles - 22 cycling to and from work plus an additional 10 miles on the rowing machine. As Michael was a passionate motocross rider he explained: "Michael's race number was 32."
Impressed by all the students' enthusiasm and dedication on the day, he said: "The 24 hour sport is something the students have done before and it has always been a cracking event.
"It is a long and tiring day going 24 hours and during that time they go through lots of emotions but it's always amazing to see and hear the cheers coming from the sports hall."
SRC Bede Sixth Form offers a range of sport courses delivered at the purpose-built SRC Sports Centre on Marsh House Avenue, Billingham. For details visit: www.stockton.ac.uk/courses/sport-leisure/
