Zoe Narey
When I first came to PHF, I was 8 years old and with my sister for a trial she didn’t want to go to alone. Despite only being there to support her, I instantly fell in love with the sport, the discipline it provided, and most importantly the people, staying on for 10 years.
My Story
I started in a recreational class once a week while I explored what I wanted to do, also learning to play the piano as well as how to scuba dive. But over the years, I started to train every hour I possibly could (and more to go to Kandy’s gym) as nothing else could beat the feeling of trampolining.
I was a completely different person when I walked through the gym door to Kandy and Andrew. I struggled talking to people I didn’t know, kept to myself in almost everything I did and didn’t have a positive relationship with sport. They have managed to bring me out of my shell, gaining confidence in myself as well as with other people and taught me the importance of hard-work, shaping me into who I am today. Competing and showcasing aerobics routines as a team has helped me to find ways to better deal with being under pressure - translating into my life outside of the gym too.
Once I turned 14, I started my journey to become a coach. While it was unexpected, it was one of the best decisions I have made, as coaching has allowed me to support all of the brilliant gymnasts that come to PHF, under the guidance of Kandy and Andrew, providing them with the same supportive environment I was lucky enough to have.
Phoenix High Flyers is not just a club but a family, thanks to Kandy and Andrew, and a safe space for all their gymnasts. No matter what stresses I have had over the years, from exams at school to family illnesses, I have always felt comfortable and supported to go and get it out of my system, whether I decided to sweat it out or cry it out. PHF will always be a home no matter where I am.
I have now secured a place at Sheffield University to study Physics and Astrophysics - something I have hoped to achieve over the past few years during my studies, and will complete this over the next three years. Even though I have to leave the club, I know I am welcome back whenever I can visit and I look forward to seeing everyone’s progress.
Thank you Kandy and Andrew for everything you do.